Text: Hosea 6:1–3
Topic: Seeking to Know God by True Repentance
Introduction
God raised the prophet Hosea as a living message to the people of Israel, demonstrating His unconditional love, even in the face of their unfaithfulness. Despite how far Israel had strayed, God's love never failed. His desire was for their return, not their destruction.
“Come, let us return to the Lord. He has torn us to pieces but he will heal us; he has injured us but he will bind up our wounds.” (Hosea 6:1)
Yet, in Hosea chapter 7, we see a heartbreaking truth: Israel never truly returned to God. They continued in their rebellion despite God's relentless love.
Today, this same pattern is being repeated in our churches. Despite repeated altar calls, passionate sermons, and heartfelt prayers, genuine repentance remains scarce. Many people draw near to God with their lips, but their hearts remain far from Him.
Characteristics of False Repentance
1. Concerned About Consequences, Not the Sin Itself
Many only feel regret when their actions bring shame, punishment, or discomfort—not because they’ve offended a holy God.
2. Desiring Forgiveness Without a Change of Heart
People often seek God's mercy but have no intention of turning away from sin. They want relief, not transformation.
3. Emotional Guilt Without Moral Conviction
Some may cry and feel bad temporarily, but there is no deep conviction or decision to change their ways.
4. Blaming Others Instead of Owning Up
False repentance always finds someone or something else to blame. True repentance takes full responsibility.
5. Delaying Repentance with Empty Promises
Saying “I will change someday” is not repentance. It’s procrastination rooted in rebellion.
What Is True Repentance?
True repentance is a heartfelt sorrow for sin, not just for its consequences, but because it grieves God. It is a sincere decision to turn away from sin and return to a life of obedience. It involves:
* Humility: Admitting our sin and brokenness.
* Confession: Acknowledging our wrong before God.
* Transformation: Making practical changes by the help of the Holy Spirit.
* Pursuit of God: Not just seeking what God can give, but seeking to truly know Him.
“Let us acknowledge the Lord; let us press on to acknowledge him. As surely as the sun rises, he will appear; he will come to us like the winter rains, like the spring rains that water the earth.” (Hosea 6:3)
Conclusion
God is calling every believer—every churchgoer, every backslider, every leader—to true repentance. He is not looking for outward rituals, but inward transformation. We must seek God not merely as a way to escape judgment, but as the very source of life and joy.
Let us return to the Lord—not out of fear alone, but out of love, reverence, and a deep longing to know Him more.
“After two days he will revive us; on the third day he will restore us, that we may live in his presence.” (Hosea 6:2).
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