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Block to repentance

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Posted by: footprint9

Hey,

I wasn’t quite sure where to place this thread - this site could really use a ‘Christian Advice’ section or something like that. Maybe someone with the technical know-how could add one?

Anyway - this issue I need advice on concerns a friend who has recently turned to Christianity. It all seemed to be going okay, despite quite an onslaught from sceptical non-Christians, however yesterday they were told that they would be going to hell.

Needless to say I was a bit shocked that any Christian would tell them that, and asked why.

The reason appears to be that my friend won’t repent. I’m not entirely sure why - they say they are too scared to, so maybe it’s a fear that they won’t be forgiven.

Essentially the reason I’m posting is that I need to help my friend get to a point where they can repent - they’re currently a bit freaked out as they don’t want to go to hell but seem to have a block on taking what they know to be the remedy to the situation. Does anyone have any advice? Prayer on this would be really appreciated - we’re in an environment where being a Christian is quite challenging, especially for those like my friend who lack the Biblical knowledge and experience to defend their views from attacks by non-Christians.

With love

J

p.s. anyone know any good reassuring passages on repentance/forgiveness that might speak to my friend?


Posted by: bill & alexis

Quote:
Originally Posted by footprint9
Hey,

I wasn’t quite sure where to place this thread - this site could really use a ‘Christian Advice’ section or something like that. Maybe someone with the technical know-how could add one?

Anyway - this issue I need advice on concerns a friend who has recently turned to Christianity. It all seemed to be going okay, despite quite an onslaught from sceptical non-Christians, however yesterday they were told that they would be going to hell.

Needless to say I was a bit shocked that any Christian would tell them that, and asked why.

The reason appears to be that my friend won’t repent. I’m not entirely sure why - they say they are too scared to, so maybe it’s a fear that they won’t be forgiven.

Essentially the reason I’m posting is that I need to help my friend get to a point where they can repent - they’re currently a bit freaked out as they don’t want to go to hell but seem to have a block on taking what they know to be the remedy to the situation. Does anyone have any advice? Prayer on this would be really appreciated - we’re in an environment where being a Christian is quite challenging, especially for those like my friend who lack the Biblical knowledge and experience to defend their views from attacks by non-Christians.

With love

J

p.s. anyone know any good reassuring passages on repentance/forgiveness that might speak to my friend?
Justine,
There are a lot of variables here, and some serious consequences if this is not pursued correctly.

Since this friend is very new to the Faith, I would recommend - depending on what they need to repent of - a season of grace. Love this person, encourage this person, and let the Holy Spirit do the conviction to get this person to change. Many times people will know they are in sin, but not realize what this sin is doing to them.

I fully expect people to repent, but with proper Shepherding a season of grace, Love, and mercy are necessary.

I am sure everyone out there would hate to automatically reap what they deserve when it concerns the sinful acts they had committed...I think God is a little more patient than that!

Keep this young person away from religious people for a season, so they can grow in relationship with the Lord, and let the Love of God change their appetite from sin - to HIM!
There comes a point where they will have to decide to obey God, or obey their own carnal nature. Another question would be: Were they truly saved???

A good rule of thumb is to always Walk in Love! Love the person, but hate the sin!!!

I hope this appeases your question.

Have a very blessed day in the LORD!
Semper Fi!
-Bill

BTW Those who are more spiritually mature will be held to a higher standard!