Having examined the meaning of repentance and some of the reasons, or rather, some of the inducements, for man’s repentance, we want to turn our attention to the subject of the necessity of repentance. We have already mentioned the primary reason, for salvation itself. Man cannot be saved without repenting of sin. But what else makes it necessary for man to repent of his sins and turn to God?
First, let us suggest repentance is necessary simply because God commands it. He is the creator of all things (Acts 17:24) and as such He has the right to command us. Paul related to the Athenians on Mars Hill that once, God winked at their ignorance but no longer, now God, “commandeth all men every where to repent” (Acts 17:30). He commands it to be done, which means if we love Him, we will do what is asked (1 Jn. 5:3). No wonder Jesus came to “call … sinners to repentance” (Luke 5:32). Will you heed God’s call to repent?
Second, we find that repentance is necessary because of sin. As we have noted, salvation isn’t possible without repentance. Jesus said, “except ye repent, ye shall all likewise perish” (Lk. 13:3). Peter commanded those on Pentecost who wanted to know what they must do, after learning they had killed the Messiah, to repent and be baptized for the remission of their sins (Acts 2:38). Thus without repentance we have no chance for forgiveness of sin. This is true for the alien sinner who is outside of Christ (Acts 2:22-23; 36-38), and likewise it is true for the saint who stumbles in sin (Acts 8:22-23). The consequence of sin demands repentance.
Finally, we find that repentance is necessary because of the final judgment each of us will face (2 Corinthians 5:10). The looming certainty of the final judgment is a warning to all to turn away from sin to God. Each passing day we live on this earth brings eternity ever nearer and with each passing day another opportunity to repent is lost for far too many. The Bible assures us that once we die it is too late (Hebrews 9:27). Repentance will surely make the judgment more tolerable than for those who refuse to repent (Matthew 11:21-22). Judgment is certain and for the one who hasn’t repented and obeyed the gospel it will be severe (2 Peter 3:8-13; 2 Thessalonians 1:7-10). The impending judgment demands repentance.
Why is repentance necessary? Repentance is necessary because God commands it. It is necessary because of sin; forgiveness requires repentance. It is necessary because the judgment warns every soul to repent. If you haven’t repented you cannot be saved; whether you are an alien sinner outside of Christ or an erring Christian, “except ye repent, ye shall all likewise perish” (Lk. 13:3). Now is the time for you to repent (2 Cor. 6:2)! – Phillip Stuckey
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