The road back to doing right is uphill. Repentance is the hardest command to obey, for human will is proud and stubborn. The risen Christ confronts Peter. Three times Peter has denied Him. Three times Jesus now asks, “Simon, do you love Me?” Three times Jesus tells Peter the action that best shows his love (John 21). Peter’s life then proves he has decided to turn back to Christ. So firm is the decision of real repentance that actions always follow. Change of mind leads to change of life. John orders Jewish leaders, “Bear fruit in keeping with repentance” (Matthew 3:8). To others he gives specific examples. Tax collectors and soldiers must stop taking more than is lawful. People with extra food and clothing must share with those who have nothing (Luke 3). Dear friend, think of your own life. Do you fail to care for the needy? Do you love money? Do you hurt those closest to you? Do you lie when it seems necessary? Do you get drunk? Are you guilty of immoral thoughts and acts? Paul lists all these sins and more, saying,
I warn you, as I warned you before, that those who do such things will not inherit the kingdom of God (Galatians 5:21).
We cannot willfully carry rebellious ways into the presence of the Holy One. The “kingdom” is where people come to God for salvation by His Son, and so willingly place themselves under His reign. Even as you struggle with many weaknesses, you can certainly decide which ruler you are trying to obey. The decision for Jesus to be your “Lord” will (and must) make a difference in how you live.
[I preached] that they should repent and turn to God, performing deeds in keeping with their repentance (Acts 26:20).