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Next Steps

 


“For we have not an high priest which cannot be touched with the feeling of our infirmities; but was in all points tempted like as we are, yet without sin. Let us therefore come boldly unto the throne of grace, that we may obtain mercy, and find grace to help in time of need.” Hebrews 4:15, 16

 

Now that we’ve looked into the commandments and seen our lives in comparison to them what should we do? Jesus’ primary teaching is the best response “Repent for the kingdom of Heaven is at hand” (Matthew 4:17; Mark 1:15). In preparation for Jesus’ ministry John the Baptist also preached repentance for the coming kingdom (Mark 1:4; Luke 3:3). At Jesus’ instruction the disciples also preached the gospel of repentance (Mark 6:12). John the Baptist was prophesied to come in the Spirit and power of Elijah (Luke 1:17). There is another prophecy in scripture that speaks of the prophet Elijah preaching in these last days prior to Jesus’ second advent (Malachi 4:5, 6). From this we can tell that true heart-rending repentance and reconciliation is the next step in the Christian walk (Proverbs 28:13; Matthew 5:23, 24; 2 Corinthians 5:19, 20).

 

So, if we are to be preaching repentance what does it mean to truly repent? Repentance is a turning away from sin toward reconciliation with God (Acts 3:19). Earnest prayer for change is required for this to be accomplished. Work your way through God’s ten commandments ask Him for forgiveness for all the ways you have violated these commandments and if you can’t identify them ask Him to show you. Ask God to fulfil His promise ‘to put enmity between you and the enemy’ (Genesis 3:15). This is justification (Luke 18:10-14; Romans 2:13). The heart turning away from sin and receiving God’s forgiveness by faith (Romans 3:28; 1 John 1:9).

 

This is the start of a new life free from sin. Each day, after our slate has been cleaned, we will be faced with choices: ‘do I continue in the path of purity or do I return to the life of sin?’ This is where the principle of sanctification comes into play. Each time we choose to yield to the will of God we become stronger on the road of purity (Matthew 5:8). If we stumble, we should never give up, reach out to the Saviour ask for His help and forgiveness then stay the course (Proverbs 24:16; Matthew 10:22; 24:11-13; Luke 9:62). The Word of God is truth; therefore, engaging in active Bible study gives us the tools necessary to live the sanctified life (John 17:17). We meet God in His Word and when we daily interact with Him in prayer and Bible study we become changed into His likeness (2 Corinthians 3:18).

 

As we continue on the path of sanctification and we see the Hand of the Lord at work changing our characters we can have confidence in God’s promise of our place in the end (2 Timothy 4:7). Maintaining this walk through the strength of Christ, experiencing character growth each day “from glory to glory”, we are daily being prepared for the ultimate transformation – glorification – at Jesus’ second coming (Philippians 4:13; 1 Corinthians 15:51-54).

 

Stay the course!

 

The Devil's Deadliest Deception

In the Meantime

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