REPENT OR PERISH

TEXT: .

INTRODUCTION:

Noah preached repentance to his generation; they repented not and perished. Jonah preached repentance to Nineveh; they repented and lived. Jesus has preached repentance to us; He “came into Galilee, preaching the gospel of God, and saying, ‘The time is fulfilled, and the kingdom of God is at hand; repent and believe in the gospel” ().

I. Elements of repentance.

A. It is not mere penance, sorrow, and confession; they may follow it, however.

B. It is a change of mind, attitude, and purpose; these result in forsaking of sin, and in faith in our Lord Jesus Christ ().

II. Reasons for repentance.

A. God will judge you (see ; ; ).

B. God has commanded you to repent.

C. God will allow you to perish unless you repent.

D. God is good ().

III. Obstacles to repentance.

A. Love of sins.

B. Fear of evil companions.

C. Religious prejudice.

D. The pride of learning (not learning but the pride of learning).

E. Willful selfishness—“The set of your soul.”

CONCLUSION:

“Those whom I love, I reprove and chasten; so be zealous and repent. Behold, I stand at the door and knock; if any one hears my voice and opens the door, I will come in to him and eat with him, and he with me” ().