In a previous article we noted that repentance means, a change of mind brought about by godly sorrow, resulting in a change of will. We also noted that it must be preceded by hearing, learning, and believing the truth. The word "repent" is used in some form 66 times in the New Testament. In every verse where repentance and salvation or remission of sins is used, repentance always comes first. Without exception, salvation always follows repentance. Note some of the verses: "John did baptize in the wilderness, and preach the baptism of repentance for the remission of sins" (Mark 1:4); "And that repentance and remission of sins should be preached in his name among all nations, beginning at Jerusalem" (Luke 24:47).
Luke stated that the preaching of "repentance and remission of sins," was to begin at "Jerusalem." We read where this began in Acts 2:37-38 when the Jews that had crucified Christ asked, "what shall we do?" Then Peter said unto them, "Repent, and be baptized every one of you in the name of Jesus Christ for the remission of sins, and ye shall receive the gift of the Holy Ghost." It is not possible for remission of sins (salvation) to come before repentance, nor is it possible for remission of sins to come before baptism. Note the order given by Peter: 1- He instructed them to "repent"; 2- He commanded that they be "baptized"; 3- The reason given was "for the remission of sins." Any arrangement different to that would change or pervert the gospel of Christ. Paul stated: "I marvel that ye are so soon removed from him that called you into the grace of Christ unto another gospel: Which is not another; but there be some that trouble you, and would pervert the gospel of Christ. But though we, or an angel from heaven, preach any other gospel unto you than that which we have preached unto you, let him be accursed" (Gal 1:6-8).
Jesus warned in Matt. 7:15; "Beware of false prophets, which come to you in sheep's clothing, but inwardly they are ravening wolves." Then he gave the consequences of believing them in verses 21-23; "Not every one that saith unto me, Lord, Lord, shall enter into the kingdom of heaven; but he that doeth the will of my Father which is in heaven. Many will say to me in that day, Lord, Lord, have we not prophesied in thy name? and in thy name have cast out devils? and in thy name done many wonderful works? And then will I profess unto them, I never knew you: depart from me, ye that work iniquity."
The very act of baptism is where sins are removed. Ananias instructed Saul: "Arise, and be baptized and wash away thy sins..." (Acts 22:16). Peter said that baptism saves us (I Pet 3:21). Yet many reject the plain teaching on baptism and state "that it has nothing to do with salvation." Jesus said, "He that rejecteth me, and receiveth not my words, hath one that judgeth him: the word that I have spoken, the same shall judge him in the last day" (John 12:48). When we stand before God in the judgment (Rom.14:10-11), and the book is opened, what do you suppose Acts 2:38; Acts 22:16; and I Pet. 3:21 will say? It will still read "Repent and be baptized...for the remission of sins;" "Arise, and be baptized and wash away thy sins;" and "...baptism doth also now save us." We know this because Jesus said, "my words shall not pass away" (Mat 24:35).
"If any man speak let him speak as the oracles of God" (I Pet. 4:11).
Don H. Noblin
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