Of Repentance unto Life.- REPENTANCE
unto life is an evangelical grace, [1] the doctrine whereof is to be
preached by every minister of the gospel, as well as that of faith in
Christ. [2].
- By
it a sinner, out of the sight and sense, not only of the danger, but
also of the filthiness and odiousness of his sins, as contrary to the
holy nature and righteous law of God, and upon the apprehension of his
mercy in Christ to such as are penitent, so grieves for and hates his
sins, as to turn from them all unto God, [3] purposing and endeavouring
to walk with him in all the ways of his commandments. [4].
- Although
repentance be not to be rested in, as any satisfaction for sin, or any
cause of the pardon thereof, [5] which is the act of God's free grace
in Christ; [6] yet is it of such necessity to all sinners, that none
may expect pardon without it. [7].
- As
there is no sin so small but it deserves damnation; [8] so there is no
sin so great, that it can bring damnation upon those who truly repent.
[9].
- Men
ought not to content themselves with a general repentance, but it is
every man's duty to endeavour to repent of his particular sins
particularly. [10].
- As
every man is bound to make private confession of his sins to God,
praying for the pardon thereof; [11] upon which, and the forsaking of
them, he shall find mercy; [12] so he that scandalizeth his brother, or
the church of Christ, ought to be willing, by a private or public
confession and sorrow for his sin, to declare his repentance to those
that are offended; [13] who are thereupon to be reconciled to him, and
in love to receive him. [14].
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