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Repentance changes our practice

Devotional:

In Revelation 2-3, John shares with seven churches a revelation he received from Jesus addressed to them. In Revelation 2:12-17 we read the proclamation to the church in Pergamum.

The gist of what John is writing here is that the church in Pergamum is remaining faithful among difficult persecution. This is to be commended. And yet, they are tolerating unfaithful practices of some believers who are participating in cultural practices that were clearly sinful.

The reality is that small compromises can lead to big sins (in either quality or quantity). It’s not that the believers in Pergamum should judge or condemn those in sin, but they should lovingly confront what is going on for the good of everyone involved. James 1:13-15 shows us that unchecked sin can lead to disastrous consequences, even physical and/or spiritual death.

So Jesus, through John, commands the believers in Pergamum to repent and receive the grace and mercy of God. Those that do will partake in God’s perfect Kingdom with Christ. Amazingly, God in His grace always welcomes and forgives sinners who repent. 

And true repentance doesn’t happen in word or confession only. True repentance changes how we live. Repentance changes our practice. It’s one thing to be sorry for getting caught doing something you shouldn’t do. It’s another thing to understand our brokenness and desire for God to change our hearts and actions to things that honor Him and love others.

Today’s challenge:

Confess to God an area in your life that does not honor Him. Then, take one practical step this week to proactively fight against that sin.