Doctrine of Repentance

Sadly, we live in an age where everyone does what is right in his own eyes; An age where there is no distinguishable difference between the Church and the unbelieving world. Too many "Christians" today want to be saved "in their sins" not "from their sins". But Jesus said, "... except ye repent, ye shall all likewise perish." There must be a change of heart. There must be a turning away from all sin. This book addresses an issue that is not heard from the pulpits of today's churches nearly as often as it should be. This book speaks not only of what true repentance is but also the importance of genuine sorrow over sin. Every believer in Christ should read this book.

Few books have had the impact on me that this one has. In fact, I would say this is the most influential book (non-divinely inspired book that is) I have ever read. I have read and re-read passages until they soaked deep into my soul. Much more than a how-to, it's a book of great depth and conviction. Would that we all would constantly have a godly sorrow that leads to repentance and great joy.

A book exclusively on repentance is exceedingly rare in our day, almost non-existent. This is especially noteworthy when one considers the significance of the doctrine. Watson notes in the introduction that faith and repentance are the two great graces essential to a Christian in this life. The Puritans preached and wrote on this doctrine far more often and in much greater detail than has been the case in the last century. I believe this is because they understood its importance as an indispensable part of the saving work of God in the souls of men. In setting forth the nature of true repentance Thomas Watson gives us six ingredients that are present inwardly and outwardly:1.A sight of sin 2.sorrow for sin 3.confession of sin 4.shame for sin 5.hatred for sin 6.turning for sin. He also gives Biblical examples that help to illustrate each of the components of repentance. In opening up what it is to turn from sin Watson writes with characteristic depth on p.54"It must be a turning from all sin... so a true convert seeks the destruction of every lust. He knows how dangerous it is to entertain any one sin. He that hides one rebel in his house is a traitor to the crown... ."The Puritans were concerned with teaching doctrine but they wanted that doctrine applied to the heart with power by the Spirit of God. This can be seen in the exortations and powerful motives to repentance that are given in chapters six through eight. Some of the motives being:that repentance prepares us for every holy duty,mercy is given to those who are penitent, it is the end of all the afflictions that the Lord sends and the day of judgement is coming. The enourmous value of this book can be seen by the emphasis that the Word of God gives to the doctirne of repentance, by the scarcity of books on the subject and by the authors piety,gifts and usefulness in the service of his Lord and King.

The culture in which we live, blinds our eyes, and numbs our consciences. Our day-to-day emersion desensitizes us to the point where we are unable to see evil in sin. The conquest of our minds is reflected in our actions, our entertainment, our humor, and our vocabulary (significant other, homophobe). We salivate lidke Pavlov's dog in the presence of temptation. By subtle, gradual, incremental slips, we earn our place in hell. One day, we arrive therein insensible of how or why. If you would bethink yourself to resist an effortless descent, read this book. Also consider "Battlefield of the Mind: How to Win the War in Your Mind" by Joyce Meyer, and "There's Dynamite in Praise" by Don Gossett.Excerpt from Chapter 3, "The Nature of True Repentance (1)":Sin must first be seen before it can be wept for."Hence I infer that where there is no sight of sin, there can be no repentance. Many who can spy faults in others see none in themselves. They cry that they have good hearts. Is it not strange that two should live together, and eat and drink together, yet not know each other? Such is the case of a sinner. His body and soul live together, work together, yet he is unacquainted with himself. He knows not his own heart, nor what hell he carries about him. Under a veil a deformed face is hid. Persons are veiled over with ignorance and self-love; therefore they see not what deformed souls they have. The devil does with them as the falconer with the hawk. He blinds them and carries them hooded to hell: `the sword shall be upon his right eye' (Zech. 11.17). Men have insight enough into worldly matters, but the eye of their mind is smitten. They do not see any evil in sin; the sword is upon their right eye." End of Excerpt.

This is not only one of Watson's greatest works, but also a much needed addition to any church/personal library. Watson writes with classic Puritan conviction, and will encourage the believer's walk like few other authors can.