TUESDAY September 12, 2023

Heed the Challenge to Repent

“Truly, these times of ignorance God overlooked, but now commands all men everywhere to repent, because He has appointed a day on which He will judge the world in righteousness by the Man whom He has ordained. He has given assurance of this to all by raising Him from the dead.”
Acts 17:30-31

God pours out His grace and mercy on people who are living in utter ignorance. He is willing to give them the opportunity to repent. That is a central key to the Christian message. The Gospel challenges each one of us to repent, no matter where we live! People living in the jungles of Brazil or the desserts of Siberia, no matter where we live, we are to repent.

Why do we need to repent? Think about it. There is going to be a Day of Judgment: And as it is appointed for men to die once, but after this the judgment (Hebrews 9:27). How can we be sure that there is a Judgment Day? Go to Jesus’ tomb! He died and then He rose again from the dead! God has ordained Jesus as Judge.

Listen to Paul give this charge to Timothy in the light of Christ judging the living and the dead: I charge you therefore before God and the Lord Jesus Christ, who will judge the living and the dead at His appearing and His kingdom: Preach the word! Be ready in season and out of season. Convince, rebuke, exhort, with all longsuffering and teaching (2 Timothy 4:1-2). Jesus will also give life to those who believe in Him: For as the Father raises the dead and gives life to them, even so the Son gives life to whom He will (John 5:21).

Knowing there is a Judgment Day coming (Revelations 20:11-15), will you heed Paul’s challenge to repent? What are you waiting for? Listen to the Holy Spirit’s conviction and allow Him to speak to your heart. Repent, confess Jesus Christ as Lord, and receive eternal life. Take a step of faith––it’s that simple. Accept God’s mercy, before judgment comes.

What will you do when the Law of God comes in terror; when the trumpet of the archangel shall tear you from your grave; when the eyes of God shall burn their way into your guilty soul; when the great books shall be opened and all your sin and shame shall be punished... can you stand against an angry Law in that Day?
~Charles Spurgeon~

For more from Raul Ries, please visit SomebodyLovesYou.com!