Chapter 39. Of Repentance and the Fruits of it.
A GOLDEN CHAIN
Chapter 39. Of Repentance and the Fruits of it.
Repentance is derived from sanctification, because no man can earnestly repent unless, denying himself, he hates sin, even from his heart, and embraces righteousness. No man either will or can perform this, except one who is, in the sight of God, regenerated and justified, and endued with true faith. Therefore, though repentance first manifests itself in those who are converted, yet regarding the order of its nature, it follows both faith and sanctification. Hence, it is also evident that this repentance — legal contrition
being an occasion and, as it were, a preparation for true conversion — is begotten by the preaching of the Gospel.
Repentance is when a sinner turns to the Lord. Act 26.20, He showed first to those of Damascus, and at Jerusalem, and through all the coasts of Judea, and then to the Gentiles, that they should repent and turn to God, and do the works worthy of an amendment of life. 1Joh 3.3, Every man who has this hope in him, purges himself, as he is pure.
This is performed when anyone, by the instinct of the Holy Ghost, purposes, wills, desires, and endeavours, to relinquish his former sins, and to become a new man. Psa 119.112, I have applied my heart to fulfill Your statutes always, even to the end.
Act 11.23, Who, when he had come and seen the grace of God, was glad, and exhorted all, that with purpose of heart, they would cling to the Lord.
The fruit of Repentance is a Christian conversation, in which fruits worthy of an amendment of life are brought forth [shown]. Mat 3.8, Therefore, bring forth fruits worthy of repentance.
A Christian conversation is such a course of life, by which — following Christ's example, and doing it by
WILLIAM PERKINS
Him — we perform new obedience to God. Mat 11.29, Take my yoke upon you, and learn from me, who am meek and lowly in heart; and you shall find rest for your souls. 1Pet 4.1, For as much as Christ has suffered for us in the flesh, arm yourselves likewise with the same mind, which is, that he who has suffered in the flesh, has ceased from sin. 1Pet 2.21, For to this you are called; for Christ also suffered for us, leaving us an example, that we should follow in his steps. 1Pet
3.10-11, If any man longs for life, and to see good days, let him refrain his tongue from evil, and his lips, that they speak no guile. Let him avoid evil and do good; let him seek peace and follow after it.
There are two parts of "new obedience": the denial of ourselves, and the profession of Christ. Mat 16.24, If any man would follow me, let him forsake himself, take up his cross, and follow me.
The denial of ourselves consists partly in Christian warfare, and partly in the patient bearing of affliction.