Evangelism Through Repentance
JEREMIAH’S third chapter is a call for the nation of Judah to turn away from idols. In verses 9-13, the people are described as:
- committing spiritual harlotry and adultery;
- being treacherous;
- backsliding;
- transgressing against the Lord; and
- disobeying the Lord’s voice.
Yet despite these sins, God extended an invitation to the nation to be reconciled to Him, and to find mercy and healing. The way back was through confession of and repentance from sin, and a wholehearted return to the Lord (Jeremiah 3:13, 22).
In the middle of this call to repent, the Lord also revealed His heart for the other nations of the world. First, Israel would return to Him, and then all nations would be gathered around His name at Jerusalem (Jeremiah 3:17). People from all over the world would serve Him rather than following “their own evil heart.”
God’s offer of hope and salvation still extends to everyone on earth. As before, His primary strategy for drawing nations to Himself is through His people. In light of Judah’s history, believers today do well to consider whether their sins may be keeping others away from the Lord. Is there a need for repentance and spiritual renewal among God’s people before evangelism can take place in any major way?
FOR THE LOVE OF GOD 