I was reading Luke 24, and came across this gem, straight from Jesus AFTER his resurrection. This is Jesus, preaching that one must REPENT (turn away) SO THAT they may have their sins forgiven.
A few things here. First, sin still exists. This means there's a law that defines sin.
Second, He is telling them that they don't just automatically have their sins forgiven because of the cross. They must also REPENT. This is contrary to some mainstream teachings within Christianity that teach that no matter what you're doing, you're forgiven. We can see that's not the case. Homosexuality, as an example? Still a sin. Still requires one to turn from it to receive forgiveness.
Third, this message of REPENTANCE FOR FORGIVENESS will be proclaimed in HIS name. A doctrine from the Father, preached through the Son. John 7:16 states that Jesus didn't come with a new doctrine, it was His Father's.
"Jesus answered them, and said, My doctrine is not mine, but his that sent me."It never changed.
John 7:16
Lastly, I love the opening statement to this passage:
"Then He opened their minds to understand the Scriptures..."These were His DISCIPLES! They knew the scriptures! But clearly there were things that they didn't understand. Yes, even these people who ministered with the living Son of God lacked understanding... Until they were given it. Do you think it's possible that we as the church may be too haughty in assuming that we DO have all the understanding? Food for thought.
“Then He opened their minds to understand the Scriptures, and He said to them, "Thus it is written, that the Christ would suffer and rise again from the dead the third day, and that repentance for forgiveness of sins would be proclaimed in His name to all the nations, beginning from Jerusalem.”
Luke 24:45-47
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