Theme: CONTRITENESS
Text: “Forasmuch then as Christ hath suffered for us in the flesh, arm yourselves likewise with the same mind: for he that hath suffered in the flesh hath ceased from sin; That he no longer should live the rest of his time in the flesh to the lusts of men, but to the will of God. For the time past of our life may suffice us to have wrought the will of the Gentiles, when we walked in lasciviousness, lusts, excess of wine, revellings, banquetings, and abominable idolatries.” – 1 Peter 4:1-3.
Comment: In this text, Saint Peter drew a clear line of difference or gulf between a true disciple of Christ and a nominal one. On Mars’ Hill, Apostle Paul taught the people saying: “And the times of this ignorance God winked at; but now commandeth all men every where to repent”. Contriteness of heart leads to repentance and sobriety and this would enable the children of God to “escape the pollutions of the world” and the destruction by that man who the Father “hath appointed…to judge the world in righteousness…” – Acts 17:30,31.
Apostle Paul charged Christians in Galatia to “Stand fast therefore in the liberty wherewith Christ hath made us free, and be not entangled again with the yoke of bondage.” (Galatians 5:1) Furthermore, the apostle of Christ stated: “But fornication, and all uncleanness, or covetousness, let it not be once named among you, as becometh saints; Neither filthiness, nor foolish talking, nor jesting, which are not convenient: but rather giving of thanks. For this ye know, that no whoremonger, nor unclean person, nor covetous man, who is an idolater, hath any inheritance in the kingdom of Christ and of God.” – Ephesians 5:3-5.
To be truly repentant or penitent the worshipper of God should try to live above board in order to enjoy the favour and mercies of God as stated by David the prophet: “The LORD is nigh unto them that are of a broken heart; and saveth such as be of a contrite spirit.” – Psalm 34:18.