God’s Goodness that Leads to Repentance

Let God’s conviction of sin strike your conscience with lightning force. Let it drive you to desperation. On Pentecost Day, the people who were convicted of their sin, cried out, saying, “Men and brethren, what shall we do?” Peter pointed them to Christ. When the Philippian jailer was convicted of his sin, he asked Paul and Silas, “Sirs, what must I do to be saved?” Paul pointed him to Christ. When Jesus convicted Paul of his sin, he asked Jesus, “Lord, what do You want me to do?” [1] God’s goodness leads people to repent of sin and believe in the Savior.

When God gives you the grace to be alarmed on account of your sins, then, you are ripe to approach the throne of God’s grace. God’s throne of grace is where you can ask God to forgive your sins. His forgiveness is the remedy for what ails you. Be contrite, not to acquire some merit by it, but in order that you may gladly accept what Jesus offers you, namely salvation. [2]

Drink the cup of Christ’s forgiveness. Avoid the cup of God’s wrath on sin.

On the night that Jesus was betrayed, “He took the cup, gave thanks, and gave to them, saying, ‘All of you drink it, for this is My blood of the new covenant, which is poured out for many for the remission of sins.’” [3] “…Apart from shedding of blood there is no remission.” [4] Praise God, He offers to you and to me a cup of salvation in Christ. A cup full of divine goodness, forgiveness, and salvation.

“Do you despise the riches of His [God’s] goodness, forbearance, and longsuffering, not knowing that the goodness of God leads you to repentance?” [5]

“Thank You Heavenly Father for Your goodness that led us to repent and believe Jesus Christ Your Son.”

[1] Based on words from a book by C.F.W. Walther, The Proper Distinction between Law and Gospel, Concordia Publishing House, 1929, pp. 193-196 (Acts 2:37; Acts 16:30; Acts 9:6)
[2] Ibid, pp. 195-196
[3] Matthew 26:27-28
[4] Hebrews 9:22
[5] Romans 2:4