The theme for the Spring 2011 Bible conference in Phoenix is found both at the beginning and end of the book (1Ti 1:18, 1Ti 6:12). In each reference, different words and phrases are used. In the first, Paul speaks of the good fight of faith as an ongoing campaign, thus reminding us that we are part of a vast and great spiritual army. In the last, his words focus on our own personal struggle, a good reminder that no one can fight our battle for us. This scope and intensity will be captured as we follow Paul’s thought through the book.
Gene Cunningham - September 25, 2003
Ezekiel #19
John the baptist offered repentance and the Kingdom or destruction (Mat 3:1-12). As a covenant people God calls them to repent. Ezekiel tells them that the time of judgment has come; repent or die. What is repentance? Who is it for? "If a wicked man turns" (Eze 18:21-28). It means to turn toward God away from sin. Repentance is not the same as saving faith. The gospel of John never mentions repentance, but faith. 150 passages condition salvation on faith alone. Repentance is distinguished from faith (Act 20:19-21). Repentance is not remorse. Judas repented and felt remorse (Mat 27:3). Repentance is not sorrow but sorrow may lead to repentance (2Co 7:8-10). Repentance is first a change in attitude then action resulting in divine mercy and escaping divine judgment (Isa 55:7, 1Th 1:9). Repentance is for sinful men and women (Luk 5:32). Repentance is for unbelievers (Joh 3:4-10). John call to repent separates faith (Mar 1:15). Repentance prepares the soul for saving faith. Cornelius was a pagan who had repented; he was giving money to the synagogues. Peter still had to give him the gospel (Act 10:1-48). Repentance is for all sinners (Rev 2:1-5). There's a time to stop praying for unrepentant people (Jer 7:1-34, 1Jo 5:16). Repentance of a believer is illustrated by the prodigal son (Luk 15:11-32) and the tower that fell on the Galileans (Luk 13:2-5). Motivating a fellow believer to repent is saving "a soul from death [Divine judgment]" (Jam 5:19-20, Jer 29:13)
Scripture References: Matthew 27:3, Revelation 2:1-5, Jeremiah 29:13, Acts 20:19-21, Acts 10:1-48, James 5:19-20, Ezekiel 18:21-28, Mark 1:15, Luke 13:2-5, Matthew 3:1-12, John 3:4-10, Luke 15:11-32, Luke 5:32, John 5:16, Isaiah 55:7, Jeremiah 7:1-34
From Series: "Ezekiel - 2002"
Ezekiel's vision of God's glory effected his life.