Dave Chanski

Bill: All right, I can agree with you that if someone’s faith is truly saving faith, it has to fit the Bible’s definition of faith. To simply understand and agree with what the Bible says won’t cut it in God’s eyes. A person has to place his trust in Christ. What else do you have to say about the evidences of salvation?

Greg: If we proceed in logical order, the next thing is repentance.

Bill: I’m kinda familiar with the word ‘repentance.’ But I have to admit, I couldn’t give you a precise definition. In fact, some of my Christian friends were once talking about repentance, and they seemed to think it was pretty much outdated.

Greg: What do you mean, ‘outdated’?

Bill: Well, for one thing, you sure don’t hear it mentioned much in sermons or in Christian books or magazines. And I think they were also saying that it was something more associated with ‘fire and brimstone’ preaching–you know, the old fashioned style of preaching.

Greg: Bill, you said you were familiar with at least the word ‘repentance.’ How have you gotten familiar with it?

Bill: Well, I may not read the Bible as much as I should, but I know I’ve read it there.

Greg: You sure have! Repentance is an important Bible doctrine! Remember Peter’s preaching? “Repent therefore and be converted, that your sins may be blotted out” (Acts 3:19). A sinner can’t be saved unless he repents. I once heard a preacher say that all true saving faith is joined to repentance. And he was right! Bill, it’s more than just a shame that there isn’t more preaching on repentance in our day–it’s frightening. People may think repentance is obsolete, but God sure doesn’t!

Bill: Greg, some of my friends say that you are too serious and strict. And frankly I’ve often agreed with them. But what you say makes a lot of sense. Probably because you keep insisting on things that are taught in the Bible. Some of the things you say bother me . . . . But I want to hear more about repentance.

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