Doing a 180: What Does True Repentance Look Like?
In the fifteenth year of Tiberius Caesar’s reign, amidst a world governed by power and politics, the Word of God did not come to kings or high priests but to a man in the wilderness—John, the son of Zacharias. His calling was foretold centuries before, prophesied by Isaiah as “the voice of one crying in the wilderness, ‘Make ready the way of the Lord, make His paths straight.’” (Luke 3:4)
John’s mission was clear: to prepare hearts for the arrival of Jesus Christ. His message was simple yet radical—repentance.
What is Repentance?
Repentance is not merely feeling sorry for sin. It is a turning, a complete change of heart and mind, a 180-degree shift toward God. John’s baptism was a symbol of this transformation, a public declaration of a heart made new. It was not enough to claim heritage or tradition, as John rebuked those who relied on their ancestry:
"Do not begin to say to yourselves, ‘We have Abraham for our father,’ for I say to you that from these stones God is able to raise up children to Abraham." (Luke 3:8)
True repentance is visible. It bears fruit. It changes how we live.
What Shall We Do?
The crowds, convicted by John’s words, asked the most honest question: “What shall we do?” (Luke 3:10)
John’s response was practical:
To the wealthy: “Share with him who has none.”
To the tax collectors: “Collect no more than what you have been ordered to.”
To the soldiers: “Do not take money by force… and be content with your wages.”
Repentance is not just about confession but action. It transforms how we treat others, reshapes our priorities, and realigns our hearts with God’s will.
A Dangerous Call
John’s bold preaching was not without consequence. He confronted sin at all levels, even calling out the immorality of Herod. For this, he was imprisoned. His fate serves as a reminder: proclaiming truth in a world that resists it is costly. Yet, John’s mission was never about self-preservation. He understood his place in God’s plan:
"One is coming who is mightier than I, and I am not fit to untie the thong of His sandals." (Luke 3:16)
John’s purpose was to point people to Jesus—the One who would baptize not just with water, but with the Holy Spirit and fire.
What About You?
John’s message is as urgent today as it was then. The call to repentance is not just for the people of his time—it is for us.
What do you need to turn from today?
Are there areas in your life where pride, greed, or complacency have taken root?
Is your faith evident through the fruit you bear?
Repentance is the key to restoration with God. It is the first step toward a transformed life. Just as John prepared the way for Jesus, may we prepare our hearts to receive Him fully.
The voice still cries in the wilderness. Will you listen?