Repent. It’s a word that stirs up thoughts of fiery preaching, tearful responses, and altar calls. But in truth, it simply means to change one’s mind. The Scriptures say that even God repented – changed His mind.
Over time the word has basically been used to call unbelievers to salvation. That’s a good thing. Sadly, however, many in ministry use the word for believers, also, and in the same connotation as when using it with those who have not yet been born-again.
This is something for which the church might want to repent – to change its mind. The constant focus on a sin-consciousness when speaking to those who are God’s children does nothing to help them grow in the Lord. In many cases, it puts the believer on a spiritual hamster wheel, having them working to “get right with God.”
The church needs a fresh revelation of the Gospel and a renewed understanding of the new creation. Sharing these and other powerful realities with the saints, versus keeping their minds fixed on the flesh will work wonders in actually helping folks overcome their struggles. “For it is the grace of God that teaches us to say no to ungodliness.”
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