Penitent
Summary
Scripture contains abundant promises to the penitent—those who turn from sin with genuine sorrow and seek God's forgiveness.
☩Promises to the Penitent
God promises to receive the penitent who confess their sins and return to Him. Through Moses, God promised restoration to Israel if they humbled themselves and confessed their iniquity. The Psalms declare that 'a broken and contrite heart, O God, you will not despise.' The prophets proclaimed that God takes no pleasure in the death of the wicked but desires that they turn and live.
☩New Testament Assurance
Jesus came to call sinners to repentance, promising rest to the weary and heavy-laden. The beatitudes bless those who mourn over sin. The parables of the lost sheep, lost coin, and prodigal son demonstrate heaven's joy over one sinner who repents. John assures believers that if we confess our sins, God is faithful and just to forgive.
