John was Jesus’ cousin and he was tasked with preparing the way for the introduction of Christ to the community. Later in this chapter, Matthew records the baptism of Jesus by John. At this time God publicly announced that Jesus was His beloved Son. John was not timid in his preaching—he told it like it was. Part of his audience included groups—Pharisees and Sadducees— John feared were not honest in their quest. He denounced their hypocrisy and explained to them what was expected if they were genuine in their desire to be baptized. In Matthew 3:8 John says: “Bring forth therefore fruits meet for repentance:” John further describes repentance in verse 11 by saying ”I indeed baptize you with water unto repentance: but he that cometh after me is mightier than I, whose shoes I am not worthy to bear: he shall baptize you with the Holy Ghost, and with fire:”
Matthew begins chapter 3 by characterizing the preaching of John the Baptist. John not only preached but he also baptized those who came to him confessing their sins.
Proof of Repentance
In other words, John told his listeners that this was not a one-time display for a public show. This was not an action taken to impress others with their religious piety as these two groups were renowned for. Rather, it was a way of life commitment to a regenerated mindset of behavior.
In Matthew 4:17 Jesus validates John’s explanation as He began preaching repentance. He reiterated exactly John’s definition: that we must change our minds for the better and our ways must be amended heartily which includes abhorring our past sins. See Matthew 4:17: “From that time Jesus began to preach, and to say, Repent: for the kingdom of heaven is at hand.”
When one becomes a Christian this kind of repentance is mandatory—old habits are obliterated. The revised way of living in a new convert is visible. But after our initial acceptance of Jesus as our Savior this same requirement is just as applicable and compulsory in our daily lives.
How do we bring forth fruit consistent with repentance? What is the manifestation of honest repentance? A repentant person strives to alter their everyday conduct by asking forgiveness for all sinful thoughts and actions, thus positioning oneself to be in accordance with Biblical guidelines. And, recognizing those transgressions as abhorrent and confessing everyone with a contrite heart. Then our lifestyle becomes the living authentication of that sincerity—that is what proves our change of heart.
This author’s recommendation is that one individualize their shortcomings. Not just make a huge sweeping statement like “forgive me of all my sins.” In addition, true repentance of necessity demands that diligently, wholeheartedly, and without reservation we beseech Jesus’ help to provide overcoming power for those sins of which we have repented. See Philippians 4:13: “I can do all things through Christ which strengtheneth me.”
Individual recognition of our wrongdoing makes this an even more potent request. It also renders Christ’s response to that petition even more effective.
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