The Highway Forums General Discussion Theology Discussion Forum Repentance About Theology is Scary

Best example, IMO, of repentance is found in the following text:

Ephesians 4:28 (ASV) 28 Let him that stole steal no more: but rather let him labor, working with his hands the thing that is good, that he may have whereof to give to him that hath need.

Repentance, first of all, is a gift of God and by His power through the regenerating work of the Holy Spirit. It is metanoia a "turning", aka: a 180° change in direction. Yes, this includes a 'change of mind', but that act of the will is governed by one's knowledge; of what is right and good vs. wrong and evil, and one's affections; what is one's deep desire, interest, importance. Thus, under the inspiration of the Holy Spirit did Paul right that true repentance is NOT simply stopping an evil act, in that particular context, stealing from others, but no longer taking what belongs to another but taking what is of your own and giving it freely to those who are less fortunate and in need of an act of loving benevolence, thus emulating God's general providential care for mankind.

Oh, and yes, indeed you will have to give an account for what you believe and how you use His written Word. I agree that there are reliable sources from the past, e.g., the Reformation creeds, confessions, and catechisms, pastors and teachers whom God raised up in times of apostasy to make known the truth once given to the saints, et al. When one comes to a belief/view that contradicts the belief/doctrine held by such sources that cross denominational lines, then you should be moved to reconsider your personal belief and doubt its verity.