TRUE REPENTANCE LEADS TO REFORMATION
Matthew 12:43-45 (713)
Introduction
A. According to Matthew 12:43-45, Jesus told a short parable that applied to the
Jews.
1. He told about an unclean spirit, a demon, leaving a man. (referred to as
a house)
2. In time the unclean spirit took seven demons with him and re-entered the
house which was empty, swept and organized. Read Matthew 12:43-45
B. Many of the Jews had listened to John the baptist, but their reformation was
insincere. Matthew 3:7-10
1. True repentance will lead to reformation. V8
C. The Jews were priviliged to see Christ in person, to witness His miracles and
to listen to Him teach. Matthew 4:17
1. Not only did the Jews reject Jesus, their hearts were swayed to have
Jesus crucified. (Bad to worse. Matthew 12:45)
D. There is an interesting principle from this parable that applies to us.
1. Repentance must lead to reformation of life.
2. Repentance is a change of mind. It's the giving up of ones stubborn
will in order to accept and obey God's will.
3. When we repent we must replace the bad with the good.
E. Three examples:
I. Our thoughts
A. Repentance of evil thoughts.
1. A momentary repentance isn't enough.
B. To replace evil thought with righteous thoughts
1. Have desire.
2. Make request of God. Philippians 4:6-7 (869)
3. Meditate on good thoughts. V8
4. Obey God.
5. When we have bad thought again go to God and ask forgiveness and
keep working on good thoughts. 1 John 1:9 (900)
II. Our habits
A. Mention several habits:
B. Suggestions: Develop good habit to replace old habit. 1) Desire; 2) Request
of God; 3) Obey God; 4) Replace the "old" with the "new". Eph. 4:22-32(865
III. Service to God.
A. Problems, hindrances. B. Follow steps above to improve.
Closing: 1) Remember that our condition can become worse. 2 Peter 2:20-22 (898)
2) God provides us with the grace that we need. Romans 5:20-21 (832). 3) Be
PATIENT and don't give up.
