Go back to what you heard and believed at first; hold to it firmly. Repent and turn to me again. If you don’t wake up, I will come to you suddenly, as unexpected as a thief. [Revelation 3.3]
These are the words of Christ. From them, we can glean their obvious instruction. But also, we can answer some doctrinal questions.
The most important doctrinal truth found here is that of repentance. Repentance is real. Repentance is possible. Jesus said. "turn to me again..." indicating that people who have turned to Him once, can turn away and then turn back to Him again.
I understand there are other writings in the New Testament that give pause to what I am suggesting here. But instead of presenting a dogmatic position here, I am suggesting we modify our thinking to at least include what is revealed in Revelation 3.3.
For me, Jesus' words here confirm His overriding message of hope for those who are truly repentant. It further supports Jesus' parable of the prodigal son and also His teaching about the two sons (one who said he would obey but didn't and one who refused to obey but then recanted).
Repentance is essential to the life of any believer. I know for sure it is in mine!
Father, help us to have a proper and Biblical understanding of repentance. And, thank You for Your mercy and grace and willingness to forgive, heal and restore.
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