Systematic Theology: Conversion (Faith and Repentance) Chapter 35

Posted on March 15, 2015 by Brian Evans

Conversion (Faith and Repentance) Chapter 35

2 Questions to consider:
(1)What is repentance? (2)What is saving faith?

Faith and Repentance are two perspectives of Christian conversion.
Conversion-“Our willing response to the gospel call, in which we sincerely repent of sins and place our trust in Christ for salvation.”
Turning from sin= repentance
Turning to Christ= faith

What is Faith?

True saving faith includes knowledge, approval, and personal trust.
Knowledge of facts is necessary for faith but not knowledge alone (cf. Romans 1:32; James 2:19).
Approval of facts is necessary for faith but not approval of facts alone (cf. John 3:2; Acts 26:27-28).
Along with knowledge and approval of facts, a personal commitment to Jesus is necessary (cf. John 1:12).

Saving Faith- “Trusting in Jesus Christ as a living person for forgiveness of sins and for eternal life with God.”

What is Repentance?

“A heartfelt sorrow for sin, a renouncing of it, and a sincere commitment to forsake it and walk in obedience to Christ.”
Repentance, like faith, is an intellectual understanding (that sin is wrong), an emotional approval of the teachings of Scripture regarding sin (a sorrow for sin and a hatred of it), and a personal decision to turn from it (a renouncing of sin and a decision of the will to forsake it and lead a life of obedience to Christ instead).

However, mere sorrow for one’s actions, or even deep remorse over one’s actions, does not constitute genuine repentance unless it is accompanied by a sincere decision to forsake sin that is being committed against God (cf., 2 Corinthians 7:9-10).
Scripture places repentance and faith together as different aspects of the one act of coming to Christ for salvation (cf., Isaiah 55:6-7).
Reflection on John 3:16-21.

Conclusion and Reflection Questions

Ultimately, faith and repentance are a work of God in us (cf. Ephesians 2:8-10; 2 Timothy 2:24-26)
What are some ways to increase your personal commitment to Christ?
Parents, how can you teach your children to place a personal trust in Jesus?
What are some ways to daily fuel your hatred of sin and commitment to Christ in faith?