Paul and Timothy, bond-servants of Christ Jesus, to all the saints in Christ Jesus who are in Philippi, including the overseers and deacons: Grace to you and peace from God our Father and the Lord Jesus Christ. - Philippians 1:1-2

This morning we will continue our study of “Baptist Distinctives'' with the third message of this series which I’ve titled “Two Offices”. We have already discussed “Biblical Authority” and the “Autonomy of the Local Church”. Last week we highlighted the fact that Baptists emphasize and uphold the individuality and independence of each local church. In today’s sermon, we will dig a bit deeper and take a closer look at the specific offices and operation of the local church.

Before we begin, let’s clarify that the offices of high priest, priest, levites, and so forth are associated with Judaism - not Christianity. Therefore, they do not pertain to this message. Looking to the New Testament, we find that the Bible uses several titles to describe the officers of the early Christian church including bishops, elders, shepherds (pastors), and deacons.

In keeping with their governing structure, some denominations have bishops who are responsible for overseeing a regional collection of local congregations. Others have bodies of elders, sometimes referred to as assemblies, that perform this same function. Following either of these models, the leadership of individual congregations is distinct from and falls under the purview of these higher officials. Baptists, however, do not place authorities outside of or over the local church and instead acknowledge only 2 offices - the pastor and the deacons. 

I. PASTORS (1 Timothy 3:1-7, Titus 1:5-9, 1 Peter 5:1-3)

While some interpret the words bishop, elder, and shepherd (or pastor in Latin) as 3 distinct positions, Baptists assert that they are 3 names for the same position. Consider, for example, that a man might simultaneously be called a husband, father, and employee. In like fashion, the pastor of a church is properly understood to be its bishop, elder, and shepherd. Thus, they are different roles of the same office. Paul and Peter use these titles interchangeably in their epistles to accentuate the various duties of the pastor.

The Greek word for bishop, which is sometimes translated in the English Bible as overseer, is episcopos. It refers to the supervisory and/or administrative role of the pastor. The Greek word for elder is presbuteros. It refers to the life experiences and, therefore, the acquired knowledge and wisdom of the pastor. Finally, the Greek word for shepherd is poimaino. It refers to the love and care of the pastor for his flock. Together these words describe a pastor who lovingly provides spiritual leadership for his congregation by rightly teaching and dividing the Word of God, by boldly protecting the flock from heresy and false teaching, and by making sound, righteous, and God-honoring decisions that keep his church operating in an orderly and effective manner.

Most Baptist churches, especially those aligned with the Southern Baptist Convention, limit the office of pastor to men only. This limitation is not due to sexism or chauvinism, but rather is based upon their sincerely held understanding of Scripture. Such Baptists insist that God established a particular order in both the home and the church in which men are assigned the leadership role. Women are scripturally precluded from preaching to or teaching men publicly in the church. Though there are some objections to this interpretation, as a rule Baptist churches have far fewer women pastors than other denominations do.

II. DEACONS (Acts 6:1-6, 1 Timothy 3:8-13)

The Greek word for deacon is diakonos, which is defined as a servant or waiter. Deacons are tasked with the critical responsibility of taking care of the physical needs of the congregation, thereby freeing the pastor to focus on the spiritual needs. As the fledgling New Testament church began to grow, the first deacons were chosen in order to manage the distribution of food to the church’s widows. These were godly men, highly respected among the congregation, who committed themselves to Christian service. They set the enduring standard for deacon ministry.

Many Baptist churches do not formally require deacons to be men, though practically speaking the overwhelming majority of them are. Even the conservative Southern Baptist Convention takes no definitive stance on this issue. As always, each local church is free to decide for itself. Deacons are, by definition, helpers who minister to the needs of others. Women are certainly permitted to do this - in fact, they are often much better at it than men! The Biblical qualifications given for deacons are regularly interpreted to include women. Furthermore, in his letter to the Romans, Paul uses the word diakonos to describe Phoebe. Was she, perhaps, a deacon or deaconess? It can’t be totally ruled out. Either way, this matter should not cause division within the church.

III. CONGREGATIONS (Acts 13:1-3, 1 Timothy 4:14)

While Baptists recognize pastors and deacons as the 2 offices of the local church, neither is seen to have any special authority over it. Pastors are to be spiritual leaders, not dictatorial tyrants. Deacons are to be servants of the congregation, not domineering rulers over it. Each autonomous church practices a democratic form of congregational governance in which each member has a voice and a vote. While some reasonable and limited control may be delegated to church officers, committees, teams, and so forth in order to conduct routine operations, the congregation retains the power to make all major decisions. Most Baptist churches have a written and approved “constitution and by-laws” document in place to help define and guide their operating procedures. It is imperative to remember that congregational governance is still subject to the Lordship of Christ, who is the head of the body, and the assembled members of the church should prayerfully strive to discern and follow His direction in all matters.

The New Testament church practiced congregational governance in several ways. First, the entire church was given the responsibility of implementing church discipline. Second, the ordinances were committed to the entire church. Third, the congregation chose its own deacons, missionaries, and other representatives. While it was necessary for the apostles to appoint pastors during the first century to start new churches, established congregations selected their own leaders going forward. The process of selecting and formally endorsing individuals to serve as pastors or deacons in the church is known as ordination. Most Baptists see ordination as an important safeguard for protecting the doctrinal integrity of the church.

CONCLUSION

To sum up, local Baptist churches adhere to the congregational model of church governance. Following a democratic process, all members may freely participate in the discussion and decision-making of the church. The 2 offices of the church are pastors and deacons. Pastors are primarily responsible for providing spiritual leadership for the flock, while deacons are tasked with addressing the congregation’s unmet physical needs. Both pastors and deacons should be Biblically qualified, tested, and proven to the extent possible. That said, age is not always the best measure for making such determinations...

So far in this series we have talked about how individual Baptist churches operate internally and how they relate to one another externally. In next week’s message we address their position on the church’s proper relationship with the state or secular government. That promises to be a fun sermon that you’ll not want to miss!  Have a blessed week.

He [Jesus] is also the head of the body, the church; and He is the beginning, the firstborn from the dead, so that He Himself will come to have first place in everything. - Colossians 1:18

Good morning! We recently began a new sermon series titled “Baptist Distinctives”. Over the course of the next few weeks, we will consider some of the major beliefs and practices that make Baptists uniquely different from most other Christian denominations.

In last Sunday’s message, the first of this study, we talked about “Biblical Authority”. Baptists recognize the Bible as the sole and final authority for all aspects of Christian faith and practice. It is the inspired Word of God, divine, and perfectly manifested through Jesus Christ. No human opinion, teaching, or directive carries the weight or power of Scripture.

Today we will highlight a second Baptist distinctive - the “Autonomy of the Local Church”.  

I. INDIVIDUAL CONGREGATIONS (1 Corinthians 12:12,27)

The word “church” is found over 110 times in the New Testament. It is derived from the Greek word “ekklesia” which literally means “an assembly” of “the called out”. Though technically it can apply to other groups of people (such as in Acts 19:32), in almost all cases the term “ekklesia” describes Christian gatherings. Depending on the context, it can refer to all Christians everywhere (the universal church), those in a particular city or area (the regional church), or the members of small, individual congregations (the local church). All 3 of these meanings are appropriate and valid.

The Bible describes the church metaphorically as “the body of Christ”. Jesus is the head of the body, and thus the leader of it. Apart from the head, the body is made up of many members. These members, though distinctly and necessarily different from one another, all work together for the good of the whole. The eyes, the ears, the hands, the feet, and all of the various parts of the body are important to and mutually affect each other. Again, the word “church” can be rightly applied to both the entire body and to it’s separate members. In other words, the Church is made up of many churches.

Differences exist between denominations due to their emphasis on one perspective or the other. Most prioritize the body as a whole, and thus view the church principally as a single religious institution. On the contrary, Baptists prioritize the various members of the body, and thus view the church primarily as a collection of many individual, local congregations. Though this distinction may seem nominal at first, it has significant implications...

II. INDEPENDENT CONGREGATIONS (Acts 16:5)

The governance and operation of the church is largely dependent upon its understanding of what a church is. Those denominations that stress the universal, institutional nature of the church have a very different administrative approach than Baptists do. Such churches are led by centralized authorities that govern through prescribed, hierarchical religious structures. Doctrinal positions and practices are determined at the higher levels and passed down to the local congregations. Individual churches have little, if any, say such matters. This methodology tends to be more rigid and promotes uniformity within the denomination.

In stark contrast, Baptist churches are completely autonomous (that is, self-governed and self-supporting). Each local assembly is fully independent. There are no authoritative bodies outside of or over the local congregation. There is no hierarchical ruling system in place. Each church, under the headship of Christ alone, is free to make its own decisions regarding its particular beliefs and practices. There are no universally prescribed dictates. Thus, while all Baptists share some unifying core beliefs, there is great diversity within the denomination. In fact, many fundamentalists would argue that Baptists are not a denomination at all - at least not in a strict sense - as they are not formally connected in any way.

But what about The Jerusalem Council? In Acts 15, a gathering of church leaders from Jerusalem and Antioch met to discuss whether or not Gentile Christians must be circumcised (like the Jewish Christians were) in order to be accepted as legitimate members of the church. After much deliberation they determined not to impose any arbitrary mandates on the Gentile Christians regarding circumcision (or any other issue). Instead they chose to offer constructive advice on several topics intended solely to help edify the Gentile believers. No consequences for “disobedience” were given. It is noteworthy that The Jerusalem Council chose not to act as an authoritative body over the universal church, but rather as a counselor and an advocate for the free expression of the local church. It did not assume any administrative power or control over the various and scattered Christian congregations.

III. COOPERATIVE CONGREGATIONS (Galatians 2:10, Romans 15:25-26)

Although Baptists strongly emphasize the individuality and independence of each local church, they also recognize the need for churches to cooperate with one another. It is plainly obvious that churches can accomplish more when they work together than they can separately. This is the basis for localized alliances, regional associations, and state and national conventions which consist of multiple Baptist churches. Participation in and giving to these bodies is completely voluntary, their proclamations are non-binding, and churches can choose to disassociate at any time. The resolutions and opinions of such conventions are generally representative of the majority, but not necessarily shared by all participating churches. Though cooperation provides numerous benefits, there are some Baptist churches that choose not to associate or affiliate with any other church or group (and that’s their prerogative).

There is a recurring storyline that runs through several of the New Testament epistles known as “The Collection for the Saints”. The Jewish Christians in Jerusalem suffered intensely from persecution and famine during the first century. The leaders of those congregations, likely during the aforementioned Jerusalem Council, asked the Apostle Paul to take up a contribution from among the various Gentile churches he visited during his missionary journeys. Paul gladly agreed to do so. This was a free-will offering, voluntarily given by those congregations who chose to participate, that was used to support the saints in Jerusalem. This collection was encouraged, but not required. Paul promoted this during his second missionary journey, collected it during his third, and subsequently carried it to Jerusalem. Baptists cite this as an exemplary model for how individual churches can and should willingly cooperate with one another to make a greater impact.

CONCLUSION

When the word “church” is used in the Bible, the overwhelming majority of the time it clearly refers to local congregations or assemblies. There is no indication in the New Testament of any hierarchical system or governing structure over the local church. Each individual congregation was distinct and autonomous, answering to the Lordship of Christ alone. To the extent possible, many (if not most) of these churches communicated with, held fellowship with, and even cooperated with one another in order to advance the Kingdom of God. Each church was uniquely different in some respects, as evidenced by the letters that were written to them, yet all were like-minded in their fundamental beliefs. Modern Baptists strive to follow this example. They encourage unity between the churches, not uniformity of churches.

I’ll close with an analogy. Though it isn’t accurate in all respects, it is helpful to me in understanding how Baptist churches are structured and related. Local Baptist churches function more like separate small businesses, while local churches in many other denominations operate more like franchises or branches of the larger corporation. Does that make sense? See you next week...

Your word is a lamp to my feet and a light to my path. - Psalm 119:105

This morning we are going to begin a new sermon series titled “Baptist Distinctives”. In this series we will summarize certain doctrines and beliefs that are held particularly by Baptists. Baptists are one of many Christian denominations that all share some common convictions with one another. This limited series will focus exclusively on beliefs that are most closely associated with Baptist faith and practice. In other words, “What makes Baptists uniquely different from other Christian denominations?”

It is not my intention to disparage or discount the sincerely held beliefs of other Christian groups or persuasions. I am certain that they are as earnestly convinced of their religious positions as we are of ours and that they’d vigorously and passionately defend them. That said, there is no denying that there are marked differences between the faith and practices of various Christian churches. This disparity does not necessarily make one right and the other wrong. The purpose of this series is simply to point out what makes Baptists distinct - nothing more.

Several years ago I preached a lengthy collection of messages called “What Do Baptists Believe?”. In that series, we addressed every article of The Baptist Faith and Message - the entire statement of faith for Southern Baptists. This study will be much shorter, as it has a more narrow scope, and will recover some of the same ground as before - albeit from a different angle. I am not preaching these sermons to be needlessly redundant, but rather to remind us of and reinforce some of the basic beliefs that make us who we are. Things that are important need to be repeated from time to time, wouldn’t you agree?

The first and arguably most important Baptist Distinctive is Biblical Authority. All of the other distinctives we’ll discuss rest upon this one. Baptists believe that the Bible - the written Word of God - is the sole, supreme, sacred, settled, and sufficient authority for all matters of religious faith and practice. Every question of life, both small and great, boils down to this: What does the Bible say about it?

I. THE SOLE AUTHORITY (Acts 17:11)

Baptists recognize the Bible as the one and only authoritative source for all aspects of Christian life. While creeds and confessions may be useful in some contexts, they do not replace or serve as a viable substitute for the Word of God. Likewise, theological commentaries, books, and other teachings - while they may be useful for interpreting and understanding Scripture - are not an alternative to the Bible itself. No human opinion (including those expressed by the most learned and respected religious leaders), no decree of any church group or council (which includes all ecclesiatical conventions and bodies), no religious traditions, customs, liturgies, or rites, indeed no other thing supplants the Bible.

II. THE SUPREME AUTHORITY (Acts 5:29)

Baptists recognize the Bible as the highest authoritative source for all matters of life. There are many voices that seek to exert influence and/or control over a person’s thoughts, speech, decisions, actions, and so forth. To a certain degree, these powers may be legitimate to the extent that they are rightly derived from God and consistent with His Word. However, the Bible always holds supreme and absolute authority over all other authorities. The teachings, truths, and commands of Scripture take precedence above everything else. Any decree, dictate, or other such rule is illegitimate and nonauthoritative if it conflicts with the Bible.  

III. THE SACRED AUTHORITY (1 Thessalonians 2:13, 2 Peter 1:20-21, Hebrews 4:12)

Baptists ascribe all authority to the Bible because of its holy nature and inception. The Bible was written by divinely inspired men who were moved by the Holy Spirit to record the very words of God. As such, it possesses the inherent authority of God Himself. The Bible is both infallible and inerrant, which is to say that it’s totally true and completely trustworthy. The contents of Scripture are timeless, and thus always relevant and contemporary in each generation. The Word of God is powerful and effective to always accomplish that which it intends. The Bible is a sacred text, not of human origin, and bears the supernatural traits of its divine and perfect Author, God Almighty, from Whom it derives its credibility. The Word of God is fully and flawlessly embodied in the Son of God, Jesus Christ.

IV. THE SETTLED AUTHORITY (Jude 1:3)

Baptists recognize the Bible as the final, unchanging authority for all matters of religious faith and practice. Its contents have been determined, settled, and do not evolve over time. They are not open to be edited, modified, appended, retracted, updated, or altered in any other way. While Baptists may debate and deliberate over the precise meaning of certain Biblical passages, they do not purport to change them. There are a variety of opinions on the methods and manners by which God speaks to believers today, but all Baptists agree that the Bible is the full and immutable revelation of God. All other subjective, personal, and/or charismatic voices or impressions attributed to God may be considered valid only if they contain no new or additional revelation. In other words, the Holy Spirit doesn’t provide us with new instructions or directives but rather guides us on the basis of those already given.

V. THE SUFFICIENT AUTHORITY (2 Timothy 3:16-17)

Baptists recognize the Bible as the complete and sufficient authority for all areas of life. It contains every moral truth, standard, and instruction necessary for proper Christian faith and practice. Nothing is missing. While the Bible does not tell us everything we’d like to know about God, it does provide us with everything we need to know in order to rightly live for and serve Him. Therefore, all other religious writings or teachings are ultimately superfluous. Where the Bible speaks, we should listen and obey. Where the Bible is silent, we should freely follow our conscience in keeping with it’s more general principles. We should not seek answers from other non-Biblical, worldly sources.

CONCLUSION

In closing, Baptists have historically been nicknamed “The People of the Book”. This flattering description refers to their stringent and uncompromising stance on Biblical authority. Baptists insist that all of their beliefs and practices mirror those plainly taught in Scripture. They aspire to follow the model set by the New Testament churches as closely as possible. They are not overly concerned with religious trappings, relics, traditions, or opinions, but instead strive for Biblical consistency and fidelity.

To summarize what we’ve discussed this morning, Baptists uphold the Bible as:
The sole authority - it has no substitute or alternative
The supreme authority - it is the highest standard
The sacred authority - it is the Word of God, divinely-inspired and absolutely true
The settled authority - it is unchanging and timeless
The sufficient authority - it contains everything we need to know

Seeing that Baptists have such a high esteem for the Bible, it would seem reasonable to expect that they’d spend ample time reading, studying, and memorizing it. Sadly, all-too-often, this is not the case. Biblically illiteracy is rampant among Baptists today, which - not surprisingly - has led to many problems within the church. What a great and tragic irony!

That said, I urge you to read from the Bible everyday. Allow it to become the authoritative guide for your life. Wholly trust in the Word of God, which is manifested both in the written Scriptures and in the Person of our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ! It (and He) will never let you down.

This Sunday morning I delivered our annual "State of the Church Address".  We reviewed some of the highlights from 2020 and praised God for His faithfulness to our congregation this past year.  Though we faced many unforeseen challenges due to COVID-19, our church still made great strides in the areas of worship, discipleship, ministry, and missions.  Overall, our church is alive and well and God continues to do great things through our small congregation.  We look forward to great things in 2021.  Happy New Year!

Starting next Sunday we will begin a new study on "Baptist Distinctives".  This will be a topical series made up of 8 to 12 sermons to be preached over the next 2 or 3 months.  We will talk about some of the basic doctrinal beliefs that are distinct to Baptists.  While Baptists share many common beliefs with other Christian denominations, this series will be limited to those beliefs that make us unique.  If time allows, we may touch on some Baptist history as well.  Any way, have a blessed week!

1 And it came to pass in those days, that there went out a decree from Caesar Augustus that all the world should be taxed. 2 (And this taxing was first made when Cyrenius was governor of Syria.) 3 And all went to be taxed, every one into his own city. 4 And Joseph also went up from Galilee, out of the city of Nazareth, into Judaea, unto the city of David, which is called Bethlehem; (because he was of the house and lineage of David:) 5 To be taxed with Mary his espoused wife, being great with child. 6 And so it was, that, while they were there, the days were accomplished that she should be delivered. 7 And she brought forth her firstborn son, and wrapped him in swaddling clothes, and laid him in a manger; because there was no room for them in the inn.

8 And there were in the same country shepherds abiding in the field, keeping watch over their flock by night. 9 And, lo, the angel of the Lord came upon them, and the glory of the Lord shone round about them: and they were sore afraid. 10 And the angel said unto them, Fear not: for, behold, I bring you good tidings of great joy, which shall be to all people. 11 For unto you is born this day in the city of David a Saviour, which is Christ the Lord. 12 And this shall be a sign unto you; Ye shall find the babe wrapped in swaddling clothes, lying in a manger. 13 And suddenly there was with the angel a multitude of the heavenly host praising God, and saying, 14 Glory to God in the highest, and on earth peace, good will toward men.

15 And it came to pass, as the angels were gone away from them into heaven, the shepherds said one to another, Let us now go even unto Bethlehem, and see this thing which is come to pass, which the Lord hath made known unto us. 16 And they came with haste, and found Mary, and Joseph, and the babe lying in a manger. 17 And when they had seen it, they made known abroad the saying which was told them concerning this child. 18 And all they that heard it wondered at those things which were told them by the shepherds. 19 But Mary kept all these things, and pondered them in her heart. 20 And the shepherds returned, glorifying and praising God for all the things that they had heard and seen, as it was told unto them.

Luke 2:1-20 (KJV)

From our family to yours, Merry Christmas!  Remember... Jesus is the reason for the season.

You did not choose Me but I chose you, and appointed you that you would go and bear fruit, and that your fruit would remain, so that whatever you ask of the Father in My name He may give to you. - John 15:16

This morning’s sermon is the final one of “The Chosen Church” series. I have titled it, appropriately enough, “The End of an Era”. It covers the deaths of Jacob and Joseph, which marked the end of the Patriarchal Age.  

At the conclusion of last week’s message Jacob had just finished blessing his sons. His blessings prophetically described the tribes that would emerge from each of them. Remember, Jacob was extremely ill and at the point of death when he spoke these words.

I. JACOB DIES (Gen. 49:29-33)

With his last fleeting breaths, Jacob commanded his sons to bury him in Canaan. He wanted to be laid in the Cave of Machpelah which was located in the field that his grandfather Abraham had purchased from Ephron the Hittite many years earlier. His grandparents Abraham and Sarah, his parents Isaac and Rebekah, and his first wife Leah were all already buried there. Jacob wanted his body to rest with them in the family grave. He had already asked Joseph to do this once before, and was now repeating his last request to all of his sons. After voicing these words, Jacob laid back in his bed, drew his feet up, and died at the age of 147.

Jacob was the last of the patriarchs. All of his sons were mutual recipients of God’s promise. They were known collectively as the Hebrews. Though each had their own distinct tribal identity, together they made up the nation of Israel. God’s covenant, which began with Abraham, was established through the lines of Issac and Jacob.

II. RETURNED TO CANAAN (Gen. 50:1-11)

Joseph wept when his father died. He ordered his physicians to embalm Jacob’s body, a tedious process that took 40 days to complete. Meanwhile the Egyptians mourned Jacob’s death for 70 days. Afterwards, Pharaoh gave Joseph permission to go bury his father in their ancestral homeland.  

Joseph and his family, along with many Egyptians, left for Canaan. Along the way they stopped at the threshing floor of Atad, which some suggest was located on the border between Egypt and Canaan - its exact location remains unknown. There they lamented the death of Jacob for another 7 days. When the Canaanites who lived in the area saw the extent of their sorrow, they named the site Abel-Mizraim which means “mourning of Egypt”.  

Jacob’s body was embalmed according to the Egyptian custom. The Jews do not typically embalm their dead. In fact, it is against their law to do so. Instead, they bury the deceased within 24 hours after their death, before the natural decaying process begins. Because Jacob’s body was embalmed, it was preserved for a much longer period of time. This allowed it to be transported many miles from Egypt to Canaan intact and without decomposing.

III. BURIED IN CANAAN (Gen. 50:12-21)

Upon their arrival at the Cave of Machpelah, near the city of Hebron, Joseph and his brothers buried their father. When the burial was complete, they all returned to their homes in Egypt. In the days that followed Joseph’s brothers feared that he might seek vengeance against them now that Jacob was dead. They again sought his forgiveness and bowed in humble servitude before him. However, Joseph was not angry with them at all. He knew that everything they’d done during his youth, though it had been intended for evil, had worked together for good in accordance with God’s perfect plan.

IV. JOSEPH DIES (Gen. 50:22-26)

Joseph lived in Egypt for the remainder of his life, roughly 54 more years. The Bible doesn’t record any information about what happened during this time. Eventually, Joseph died at the age of 110. He lived long enough to meet his great grandchildren, the offspring of Ephraim and Manasseh. Near the end of his life, Joseph reassured his brothers that God would care for them and someday lead the Hebrews back to the land of Canaan which He’d promised to Abraham, Isaac, and Jacob. He asked them to take his body back there, just as they’d done for their father Jacob. When Joseph died, the Egyptians embalmed his body and placed it in a coffin. It would remain there for almost 400 years, until the time of the exodus.

Joseph was not one of the patriarchs. Nevertheless, several chapters in the book of Genesis are dedicated to him. There are likely multiple reasons for this. First, Joseph’s story explains how the Jewish people wound up in Egypt, thereby providing the backdrop for the Egyptian captivity to follow. Second, as we’ve pointed out throughout this series, Joseph’s life presents many similarities to the ministry and experiences of Jesus Christ. I see Joseph's story as a preview, in many respects, of the coming Messiah.

CONCLUSION

Prior to the age of the patriarchs, there were no designated people of God. Instead the LORD revealed Himself to individuals and families who were scattered across the earth, including faithful men such as Abel, Enoch, Noah, and Job. Believers were, for the most part, largely disconnected from one another. This approach starkly changed when God chose Abraham to become the father of His people. The descendants of Abraham, Isaac, and Jacob were set apart to serve as God’s representatives on the earth.

In keeping with this new arrangement, God established the Abrahamic Covenant. It consisted of 3 main parts. First, God would bless Abraham and his descendants and grow them into a populous and successful nation. Second, God would give these Hebrews the land of Canaan as an eternal possession from which they could live and serve Him forever. Third, God would work through His people to bless the entire world. It was the LORD’s intention for Israel to become a spiritually fruitful and morally righteous nation that made His name famous in all the earth. Unfortunately, the Jewish people didn’t always rise to this lofty expectation.

Following the age of the patriarchs, the children of Abraham, Isaac, and Jacob were enslaved by the Egyptians for almost 400 years. During their captivity several generations passed and they multiplied into a large ethic group - estimated to be in the millions by the time of the exodus. Their growth as a people, despite severe hardship, was consistent with God’s covenant promise. All of these things took place just as God had predicted (Genesis 15:12-16). 

In closing, we have seen again and again in this series that the patriarchs were sinners just like you and me. They were not chosen because of their moral excellence or superiority. Rather, God chose then solely based upon His own sovereign will for reasons that we don’t fully understand. By faith they trusted in His promises and obeyed His directions. In the same way, we as Christians today (the church) do not choose to follow God by our own prerogative. Rather, He chooses us through the finished work of Jesus Christ and we simply accept or reject His invitation (John 1:12).

To sum up, all of you be harmonious, sympathetic, loving, compassionate, and humble; not returning evil for evil or insult for insult, but giving a blessing instead; for you were called for the very purpose that you would inherit a blessing. - 1 Peter 3:8-9

What is a blessing? The dictionary defines a blessing as “God’s favor and protection.” When we pray or speak blessings upon others, we are asking God to pour out His gracious kindness upon them. We are invoking His loving care. This is a fairly common practice within the church, the family, and elsewhere. As Christians, we are called to bless one another just as Israel was chosen to be a blessing for all the world.

Today’s sermon covers 2 chapters, both of which detail Jacob’s final blessings. These are Jacob’s last words, thoughtfully spoken to his sons and grandsons. In some cases they invoke God’s favor, in others they convey Jacob’s disappointment, and in all instances they predict what lies ahead for the Hebrew people.

I. JACOB MEETS HIS GRANDSONS (Gen. 48:1-7)

Jacob spent the final 17 years of his life in Egypt. Therefore, a significant amount of time had passed between his arrival in Goshen and the illness that led to his death. Nevertheless, one day Joseph received news that his elderly father was very sick. He and his 2 sons hurried to go visit Jacob. When Jacob saw them, he gathered his strength and sat up in the bed. He began to speak to his son and grandsons.

Jacob reminded Joseph of God’s promise, which was given at Luz, to bless him and his descendants, to multiply them into a great nation, and to give them the land of Canaan as an eternal possession (Genesis 35:6-15). Jacob then adopted Joseph’s 2 sons, Ephraim and Manasseh, as his own thereby entitling them to his inheritance. Lastly, he explained why he had buried Joseph’s mother Rachel - the love of Jacob’s life - on the road to Bethlehem.

Though Jacob was deathly sick and bedridden, he was delighted to see Joseph - and especially his grandsons Ephraim and Manasseh. Most grandparents seem to have a special place in their heart for their grandchildren. Grandparents are free to spoil their grandchildren rotten without fear of having to discipline them later. Some of my sweetest childhood memories took place at my grandparents’ house. There is a undeniably special bond between grandparents and grandchildren.

II. JACOB BLESSES HIS GRANDSONS (Gen. 48:8-22)

Jacob’s eyesight was bad, due to age and sickness, and he didn’t immediately recognize his grandsons. When Joseph brought them closer, he realized who they were and hugged and kissed them. Then Jacob prepared to speak a blessing over them. Though he was the prince of Egypt, still Joseph humbly bowed in deference before his father and set his sons before him. Manasseh, the oldest, stood on Jacob’s right and Ephraim, the youngest, was on Jacob’s left.

The blessing of the right hand was traditionally reserved for the eldest son. Jacob crossed his arms as he reached out to place his hands on the heads of his grandsons. In so doing, he placed his right hand on Ephraim and his left on Manasseh. Then he began giving his blessing. When Joseph realized what was happening, he interrupted. Joseph believed that his father was making a mistake. However, Jacob responded that he was fully aware of what he was doing. He told Joseph that Ephraim, though younger, would become a greater people than Manasseh. Therefore, Jacob purposefully gave the greater blessing to Ephraim.

After blessing his grandsons, Jacob turned his attention to Joseph. Knowing that his death was near, he reassured Joseph that God would continue to be with even after he was gone. Jacob also prophesied that one day Joseph would return to Canaan, the land of his ancestors. This prophecy ended up having a duel fulfillment in that Joseph’s body was eventually brought back and buried in Canaan and Joseph’s descendants eventually returned to and settled in Canaan. Finally, Jacob explained that Joseph would receive a double portion of his inheritance in the Promised Land through Ephraim and Manasseh.  

There is a recurring theme that runs through the stories of Genesis. God repeatedly chose a younger son to rule over or become greater than the older. Isaac was chosen over Ishmael, Jacob was chosen over Esau, Joseph (though not the youngest) was chosen over Reuben, and now Ephraim was chosen over Manasseh. I can’t say with certainty why God did this, but it does show us that God’s ways are different than man’s ways. It also reflects to some degree on Jesus’ teaching that “The first shall be last and the last shall be first” (Matthew 20:16).

III. JACOB BLESSES HIS SONS (Gen. 49:1-28)

After blessing his 2 grandsons Ephraim and Manasseh, Jacob summoned and assembled all 12 of his own sons. He began to bless them and foretell what would happen to their families in the generations to come. He began with Reuben and continued according to their birth order concluding with Benjamin.

Jacob rebuked Reuben for sleeping with his concubine Bilhah. He revoked his privileges as the firstborn due to his lack of self-control. Jacob reprimanded Simeon and Levi for violently and angrily murdering all of the men of Shechem after their sister Dinah was raped. Jacob blessed Judah, comparing him to a lion, and promised that he would perpetually rule over his brothers. This, in fact, came to pass as King David and later Jesus Christ would come from the line of Judah. Jacob stated that Zebulun’s descendants would be a coastal and sea faring people. He described Issachar as a strong donkey bearing heavy burdens and enduring forced labor. He pictured Dan as a serpent in the pathway biting at the horse’s heels.

Jacob interjected with a shout to God and then continued. He described Gad as someone who drove his enemies away, Asher as enjoying rich food and royal delicacies, and Naphtali as a loosed doe speaking beautiful words. Jacob pronounced his greatest blessing on Joseph, describing him as a fruitful branch who remained strong even when provoked. Finally, he stated that Benjamin was like a ravenous wolf who devoured his prey and divided his spoils. With this, Jacob’s blessings, rebukes, and prophetic utterances ended.

CONCLUSION

In the generations to follow Jacob’s sons would multiply and develop into the 12 tribes of Israel. These tribes would become characterized by the blessings and descriptions that Jacob spoke over them. Though distinct from one another, as kinsmen these tribes would collectively form the nation of Israel. Following the conquest of Canaan, which was still almost 400 years away, each would receive a portion of the Promised Land in keeping with God’s covenant promise to Abraham, Issac, and Jacob.

The 12 tribes of Israel are: Reuben, Simeon, Judah, Zebulun, Issachar, Dan, Gad, Asher, Naphtali, Ephraim, Manasseh, and Benjamin. Ephraim and Manasseh were both adopted by Jacob so as to give Joseph's family a double portion of the inheritance. Levi was designated as the priestly line and therefore didn’t receive an allotment of land, which explains their absence from the list. They were, of course, still a unique tribe.

In closing, Jacob blessed his sons.  Following his example, we should bless others.

“Behold, days are coming,” declares the Lord God, “When I will send a famine on the land. Not a famine for bread or a thirst for water, but rather for hearing the words of the Lord.” - Amos 8:11

Today’s message covers 2 chapters. It highlights Jacob’s move to Egypt and the remaining 5 years of famine. As I’ve done previously in this series when covering multiple chapters in a single sermon, I will try to summarize the events that take place and only read portions of the text as time allows.

I. THE HEBREWS MOVE TO EGYPT (Gen. 46:1-27)

Jacob and his family set out from their home, presumably in Hebron, and headed for Egypt. Along the way they stopped in Beersheba, the place where God had spoken to Jacob’s father Isaac many years before (Genesis 26:23-25). The LORD appeared in a vision and encouraged Jacob not to be afraid of moving his family out of the Promised Land. God assured him that someday his descendants return to Canaan and resettle there.        

So the Hebrews continued onward toward Egypt in the wagons that Pharaoh had provided for their move. This was a large procession. It included all of Jacob’s livestock and possessions, along with his sons and daughters, grandsons and granddaughters, and many others. The Bible specifically names approximately 70 male family members (a few women are also listed) who made this journey with Jacob to Egypt.    

It is worth mentioning that all 12 of Jacob’s sons already had children of their own by this point. The oldest of them, Reuben, was likely in his mid-fifties. These children were born of Canaanite women (or Egyptian in Joseph’s case), as there is no indication that Jacob’s sons sought out Hebrew wives. For context, Abraham, Isaac, and Jacob all purposefully chose wives from among their own relatives, waited much later to start their families, and therefore had fewer children. Had this new practice of intermarriage and explosive proliferation continued for a few more generations, the unique identity of the Hebrew people would have likely been lost. Perhaps this is one of the reasons why God called them to isolation in Egypt…

II. THEY SETTLE IN GOSHEN (Gen. 46:28-47:12)

Jacob sent Judah to inform Joseph that they had arrived safely in the land of Goshen. Upon receiving the message Joseph hurriedly came to meet them and to see his father. An emotional reunion took place between Jacob and his long-lost son. Joseph told them that he would go and report to Pharaoh that they had come and settled in Goshen. He instructed them to tell Pharaoh that they were shepherds. Bible historians surmise that the Egyptians didn’t eat meat, or at least not mutton. Thus, these Hebrews would be segregated from and not intermingle with people of Egypt.

Joseph took 5 of his brothers to go meet Pharaoh. As expected, Pharaoh asked them what their occupation was and they answered “shepherds”. They described their plight in Canaan that had come as the result of the famine. Pharaoh confirmed his previous decision permitting them to settle in Goshen. He even allowed them to manage some of his own livestock.

Joseph also took his father to meet Pharaoh. Pharaoh asked Jacob how old he was, and Jacob said that he was 130. Jacob went on to say that he’d lived a challenging, difficult life. At the end of their meeting, Jacob blessed Pharaoh. In the months that followed, the Hebrews settled in the region of Goshen, which would later become associated with the city of Rameses that was built there (Exodus 1:11). Joseph provided for their needs as the famine persisted.

III. THE FAMINE RAGES ON (Gen. 47:13-26)

During the final 5 years of the famine, the people of Egypt became increasingly desperate. They quickly spent all of their money to buy grain. When it was completely gone, they began selling their livestock and herds to purchase food. Once they ran out of animals, they began selling their homes and property. When this was exhausted, they sold themselves into slavery in exchange for bread. Within a few short years, Pharaoh and his government gained ownership of virtually everything in Egypt.

All of the land, with the exception of that which was owned by the priests, now belonged to Pharaoh. Having sold everything, many people left their rural homes behind and moved to the cities where the storehouses of grain were readily available. Those who chose to stay in the countryside and grow crops were now actually servants of Pharaoh living and working on his land. They were required to give one-fifth of their produce to Pharaoh.

The political and societal structure of Egypt completely changed as a result of the famine. Individual ownership and control of property all but ceased, as almost everything was acquired by Pharaoh. Governmental power and influence increased dramatically. The people willingly ceded their independence to Pharaoh in exchange for protection and provision. This dramatic shift set the stage for political corruption and the Egyptian captivity that was to come.

IV. JOSEPH MAKES A PROMISE (Gen. 47:27-31)

While much of Egypt suffered and became poor, Jacob and his family prospered in Goshen. They acquired land of their own, were fruitful in it, and became quite numerous. Jacob would reside in the nation of Egypt for 17 more years before his death. He asked his son Joseph not to bury his body in Egypt. Joseph swore that, when the time came, he would carry his father’s body back to Canaan and bury him with his ancestors in the Cave of Machpelah.

God blessed the Hebrews and they enjoyed great success. Their productivity was a stark contrast to the struggles being felt by most Egyptians. Over time, this disparity of fortune would contribute to feelings of resentment and animosity toward the Hebrew people - yet another factor that led to the Egyptian captivity.  

CONCLUSION

God orchestrated all of these events so that the Hebrew people, the descendants of Abraham, Isaac, and Jacob, would endure as a distinct ethic group. He brought them to Egypt and settled them in their own remote region, in part because He didn’t want them assimilating with the Canaanites. They were regarded as peculiar outsiders by the Egyptian citizens and largely left alone. Thus, they married from among themselves and maintained a unique status as God’s chosen nation.

Furthermore, God was setting the table for the next phase of Jewish history - the Egyptian captivity. Increased governmental power would enable future Pharaohs to enslave the Hebrew people for almost 400 years. During these centuries, they would multiply into a large and populous nation. Eventually, under Moses and Joshua, they would return to Canaan just as God had promised to Jacob at Beersheba.

The Hebrews lived in Egypt, but remained separate from its many influences. They preserved their faith and practices, and did not allow their identity to become diluted by the Egyptian way of life. In similar fashion, we as Christians are called to live “in the world but not of the world”. I fear that many believers have compromised their faith and acquiesced to allures of this fallen world. To a large degree, we have lost our identity as strangers and pilgrims on the earth.

Be kind to one another, compassionate, forgiving each other, just as God in Christ also has forgiven you. - Ephesians 4:32

Joseph had been testing his brothers to see if their actions proved them to be honest, upright, and caring. They had brought the money back for the grain they’d taken home on their first trip to Egypt. Though they had tarried somewhat, they had come back to rescue Simeon. They obviously cherished and looked out for their younger brother Benjamin. Judah had even offered to take Benjamin’s place as the prince’s slave. It was now abundantly clear that these brothers, who were once just murderous boys, had matured and developed into honorable men of good character. The test was complete.

Today’s message is called “Joseph Shows Kindness”. It focuses on the events recorded in Genesis 45. After this sermon is complete, there will only be 3 more left in this series. We are nearing the end my friends. Yeah!

I. REVELATION (v1-8)

Joseph had been concealing his true identity from his brothers for the past several months. When Judah sacrificially offered himself to be the prince’s slave rather than Benjamin, Joseph had seen enough. He was now fully convinced that his brothers were changed men. Therefore, he cleared the room of everyone other than himself and his brothers. Once they were alone, Joseph told them who he was. As he did so, he was overcome with emotion and wept loudly so that the Egyptians heard. The brothers were dumbfounded and unable to respond.

Joseph asked them to come closer. He stated that he wasn’t angry at them for selling him in slavery years ago. He even counseled them to forgive themselves for having done so. Instead, he now recognized that it had all been a part of God’s grand design. Joseph’s rocky past had providentially led him to become the Prince of Egypt. As prince, Joseph was in a unique position to deliver his family (and countless others) from starvation and famine. It had been God’s plan all along, so that the Hebrew people would be saved.

Isn’t forgiveness wonderful? Joseph’s brothers expected him to be furious with them for how they’d mistreated him years ago. Instead, Joseph extended kindness and compassion to them. He didn’t hold a grudge and wasn’t poisoned by bitterness. Instead he acknowledged that God was sovereign over all things, including the events of his own life. This realization freed him to forgive his brothers and to praise God in all circumstances (Job 1:21-22). 

II. INVITATION (v9-15)

Joseph instructed his brothers to go quickly and tell their father Jacob that he was still alive and had become the prince. He asked them to bring their entire family and all of their possessions from Canaan to Egypt and to settle in the region of Goshen, where the Nile river flows into the sea. He said that there were 5 years of famine remaining, and that he wanted his family to live close by that he might provide for and protect them. Joseph hugged Benjamin, kissed all of his brothers, and they conversed with one another as the tears of joy flowed down their cheeks.

Joseph invited his family to leave their uncertainty and fears behind by moving to a place where they’d be cared for and sustained. Have you ever received an invitation? Invitations offer us access to things that we might not otherwise be privy to. Invitations express a desire on the part of the giver to have us there. Invitations are powerful. The gospel message is an invitation made to everyone to receive salvation and eternal life through faith in Jesus Christ.     

III. PREPARATION (v16-23)

When the news spread throughout Pharaoh’s house that Joseph and his brothers had been reunited, Pharaoh and his servants were greatly pleased. Pharaoh consented to Joseph’s earlier promise to allow Jacob and his family to settle in Goshen. This was the most lush and fertile land in all of Egypt. Pharaoh didn’t want the brothers to be concerned about where they’d live. What’s more, he even arranged for and sent wagons back with them to Canaan to help with the move.

In addition to this, Joseph gave his brothers provisions for their journey. He gave each of them a change of garments. However, he specifically gave Benjamin 5 changes of garments and 300 pieces of silver. He also sent male and female donkeys loaded with many fine things from Egypt, bread, and grain. All of these things would provide ample sustenance for the family as they relocated to Egypt.

Have you ever moved to a distant location? It’s a huge and costly undertaking. I’ve moved several times during my life, but always within Texas! Like the wagons in this story, we’ve had to rent moving trucks to carry all of our things. We loaded them up, drove them to our new house, and then carefully unloaded everything. It’s exhausting. When I think about it, it makes me hope that I’ll never have to move again...

IV. JUBILATION (24-28)

Joseph’s brothers gathered all of their things, including the wagons and provisions they had been given for the trip, and returned home. When they arrived, they told their father Jacob that his beloved son Joseph was still alive. In fact, he was the ruler over Egypt. Jacob was stunned by their statement and didn’t immediately believe them. For almost 22 years he had presumed that Joseph was dead. But when Jacob saw the Egyptian wagons and provisions, his mind changed. Joseph was alive, and Jacob desperately wanted to go and see him.

I can only imagine the joy Jacob must have felt when he heard and was convinced that his long-lost son Joseph was still alive. I’ve heard several heart wrenching stories of people that have lost loved ones only to be reunited with them years later. Perhaps you’ve been touched by a similar experience. In a real sense, this is the hope we have in Christ. As the redeemed children of God, we have the assurance that no separation is permanent - not even death - and that someday we will meet again in Heaven.  

CONCLUSION

Let me close by pointing out more similarities between Joseph and Jesus. After thinking him to be dead for years, Joseph’s brothers were finally reunited with him. During their first meeting Benjamin was not with them. However, the second time he was. In a similar way, after Jesus had been dead for 3 days, He rose from the grave and appeared to His disciples. On His first appearance Thomas was not with them, but a week later he was.

After speaking with his brothers, Joseph prepared to meet his father once again. Likewise, after appearing to His disciples for 40 days, Jesus prepared to return to His Father on Ascension Day. They would soon be in each other’s presence again.

Finally, Joseph forgave his brothers and invited his family to come live in Egypt. His kindness is a picture of Christ’s love for us. Jesus has forgiven us of our transgressions and offered us salvation and eternal life with Him. Have you accepted His invitation?

No one who has been born of God practices sin, because His seed remains in him; and he cannot sin continually, because he has been born of God. - 1 John 3:9

In last week’s message, Jacob sent all of his sons except Benjamin to Egypt in order to buy food. When they arrived, Joseph recognized them and decided to put them to the test. He accused them of being spies and took Simeon as a prisoner. He gave the remaining brothers the grain they needed, sent them away, and told them to come again with Benjamin as proof of their innocence. The brothers returned home and told Jacob everything that had happened.

This morning we will pick up the story right where we left off. Would the brothers go back? Would Simeon remain in jail forever? Would Jacob allow Benjamin to leave home with them? So many questions… let’s find out the answers!  

I. BACK TO EGYPT (Gen. 43:1-15)

The famine continued until Jacob’s family ran out of the food supply they’d brought back from Egypt. He asked his sons to return and purchase more grain, but Judah reminded him that they would be unable to do so without Benjamin present. Jacob questioned them for revealing that they even had a younger brother, but Judah calmly explained that they couldn’t have predicted the prince would want to see him. Judah then promised to take personal responsibility for Benjamin’s protection, as Jacob didn’t trust Reuben’s earlier pledge to do so. He urged his father to let them go and not to delay any longer.

Left with no other options, Jacob begrudgingly agreed. He decided to send a collection of some of the finest products from Canaan as a gift for the prince. Furthermore, he had the brothers take twice as much money as they had taken previously. Half of it was for the grain they’d already used but never properly paid for and the other half was for the food which they were going to buy. Finally, he prayed that God would watch over them, that all would go well, that Simeon would be released, and that all of the brothers would come home safely. And so the brothers, including Benjamin, returned to Egypt again.

One of the lessons we can learn from this passage is that sometimes we have to do things that we don’t necessarily want to do in order to get what we want or need. Jacob didn’t want to let Benjamin go. In fact, he waited for as long as he possibly could before releasing him. Even then he was hesitant. But when left with no other choice but starvation, he finally allowed Benjamin to return to Egypt with his brothers. Perhaps there have been times in your life that you’ve had to make (and act upon) undesirable, but necessary, decisions.

II. JOSEPH SEES BENJAMIN (Gen. 43:16-34)

When Joseph saw that the brothers were back with Benjamin, he had them escorted to his house. He had his servants begin to prepare a lunch for them. This seemed strange to the brothers, they reasoned that Joseph was angry with them for having taken the first load of food without paying for it, and they feared the worst. They told Joseph’s steward that they’d brought the payment for the grain from their first trip and swore that they hadn’t withheld it on purpose. The steward wasn’t concerned or upset about it. Instead, he brought Simeon out to them, gave them water to wash their feet, and fed their donkeys. So the brothers anxiously waited for Joseph’s arrival and prepared the gift they’d brought for him.

When Joseph arrived, they brought the gift to him and bowed down in his presence. Joseph asked about their aging father. The brothers responded that he was well and bowed down a second time. Then Joseph asked if this new person with them was their youngest brother Benjamin. He then prayed that God’s grace be upon Benjamin. Moved with emotion, Joseph hurried out of sight and wept. Once he regained his composure, Joseph returned and instructed his servants to serve the meal. Typically Egyptians and Hebrews ate separately. But Joseph chose to eat with his brothers, and they were seated around the table according to their age. Benjamin was given a larger portion than his brothers.

Everything that was happening seemed bizarre. Why would the Prince of Egypt serve a special lunch for these brothers in his own house? Why would he bless Benjamin in God’s name? Why would he personally sit and eat with them seeing that they were Hebrews? How could he possibly know the correct order of their birth? Something was definitely going on… but the brothers didn’t yet know exactly what it was. When things seem peculiar and people are acting in curious ways, it is usually a sign that something is taking place behind the scenes.  

III. THE STOLEN CUP (Gen. 44)

Joseph ordered his servants to fill the brothers’ sacks with grain and to give them their money back (again). Furthermore, Joseph told his steward to secretly place his silver cup in Benjamin’s bag. At morning light the 11 brothers left for home. Not long after they’d gone, Joseph sent his steward after them. When the steward caught up, he accused the brothers of stealing Joseph’s cup. They strongly denied the charge and claimed that they were innocent. The steward stated that if any of them had stolen the cup, that individual would become the prince’s slave. They searched their bags and found the silver cup in Benjamin's sack. The brothers were overcome with grief and were brought back to the city.

Joseph began to interrogate the brothers. Judah spoke up as their representative, but was unable to give a defense for their guilt. He suggested that all of them be held as slaves, but Joseph replied that only Benjamin would be kept. Judah approached Joseph and explained that Benjamin was his elderly father’s favorite son - the only son left of his mother. He stated that Jacob would die of sorrow if Benjamin did not return home safely from Egypt. Judah had pledged to protect Benjamin and couldn’t go back to Canaan without him. Out of deep love for his father and youngest brother, Judah volunteered to take Benjamin’s place. This pictures Jesus' substitutionary sacrifice for sinners.

Almost 25 years earlier, it was Judah who had proposed selling Joseph to the Ishmaelites as a slave. Now, as poor Benjamin seemed destined to become a slave also, Judah desperately sought to intervene. Rather than purposely condemning his brother to a life of servitude, he instead acted compassionately to deliver his brother from such a fate. Clearly Judah had changed. It has been said that the best indicator of true repentance occurs when a person chooses to act righteously while facing the same situation or circumstances that formally led them to sin.

CONCLUSION

In closing, let’s briefly review a few of the lessons we’ve brought out in today’s message.

First, sometimes in life we have to do things that we don’t want to do in order to get what we need. For example, there are days we don’t want to go to work and would rather stay in bed, but we need that paycheck and don’t want to get fired. So we get up and go…

Second, when people are acting strangely and things seem out of place, it is likely that something is going on. People do and say things for a reason. Motivations drive actions. We should be sensitive enough to recognize and question curious and peculiar conduct.

Third, true repentance can be defined as a change of mind that results in a change of behavior. Everyone sins, even Christians. That said, those who are truly sorry and repentant will not continue to repeat the same sins over and over again habitually.