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THE
MARKS OF TRUE REPENTANCE Introduction: Because there is true repentance it stands to reason that there is a false repentance also (Illus: Judas (Matt.27) a picture of false repentance). There is a sorrow that does not lead to true repentance. The truth of repentance is a message that the devil doesn’t want you to hear. When John came preaching he demanded true repentance and he sent some away because they would not truly repent. What are the marks of true biblical repentance? I. A CONFESSION OF SIN (V.7) A. This Is A Conscience Decision. Coming To Grips With Who I Am – The Bible tells me what I am. I will never truly repent until I come to grips with what I am. “Generation of vipers” = the off-spring of the serpent (who is the great serpent in the Bible?). B. There Is A Common Deception Coming To Grips With Where I’m Going – (Illus: these vipers can look like sticks…Paul’s experience). Religion can look right from the outside, but without true repentance it has the sting of a viper. “Who hath warned you…” = somebody has convinced you that you can escape the wrath of God through religion…who taught you that? (Illus: who told you that you’re going to heaven because you’re a Baptist…?) II. A PROFESSION
OF FAITH (VV.8-9) A.
Dead Works (v.8) (Illus: the religious profession…Abraham’s children…member of religious order…church member etc.) That is not a POF it is a religious pedigree. It is not physical or mental assent, but spiritual birth that is going to fit you for God’s kingdom. (Illus: God can melt the heart of stone). B.
Barren Lives (v.9) Fruit is not a product of works it is a product of life. (Illus: fruit doesn’t come by the labor of the tree…a real Christian bares fruit not because he has to, but because of the Jesus in him). III. A TRANSFORMATION OF CHARACTER (VV.10-14) Conclusion:
True repentance says I’m turning from sin once for all, I’m
turning to Jesus Christ in faith, and I’m not going back!
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