Message Repentance and Fasting – A Call to True Transformation

 

Repentance and Fasting – A Call to True Transformation

Repentance and fasting are two powerful spiritual disciplines that bring us closer to God. They are not just religious rituals, but acts of the heart that reflect a deep desire for transformation.

• Repentance means turning away from sin and returning to God. It is more than saying "sorry"—it is a commitment to change.
• Fasting is a way of humbling ourselves before God, seeking His will, and growing in spiritual strength.

Today, we will explore:

1. The True Meaning of Repentance (Joel 2:12-13, Acts 3:19)
2. The Purpose of Fasting (Isaiah 58:6-9, Matthew 6:16-18)
3. How Repentance and Fasting Work Together

 

I. The True Meaning of Repentance (Joel 2:12-13, Acts 3:19)

A. Repentance is a Change of Heart

The prophet Joel calls us to true repentance:

“Return to me with all your heart, with fasting, weeping, and mourning. Rend your hearts and not your garments.” (Joel 2:12-13)

This verse teaches us that repentance is not just an outward action, but an inward transformation.

• The Jews in ancient times would tear their clothes as a sign of grief. But God says, "Tear your hearts, not your clothes!"
• True repentance is not about outward appearances but about a sincere change of heart.

B. Repentance Leads to Forgiveness and Renewal

In Acts 3:19, Peter tells the people:

“Repent, then, and turn to God, so that your sins may be wiped out, that times of refreshing may come from the Lord.”

• Repentance brings forgiveness—God wipes away our sins.
• Repentance brings renewal—God refreshes our spirits and restores our joy.
• Repentance brings transformation—we begin to live a new life in Christ.

C. The Lesson for Us

• Repentance is not just about feeling bad for our sins—it’s about changing our ways.
• God is merciful and ready to forgive when we turn to Him with sincerity.
• Repentance brings spiritual renewal and peace.

Are there any sins in my life that I need to confess and turn away from?

 

II. The Purpose of Fasting (Isaiah 58:6-9, Matthew 6:16-18)

A. Fasting is More Than Just Abstaining from Food

In Isaiah 58:6-7, God speaks about the kind of fasting He desires:

“Is not this the fast that I choose: to loose the bonds of wickedness, to undo the straps of the yoke, to let the oppressed go free, and to break every yoke? Is it not to share your bread with the hungry and bring the homeless poor into your house?”

This passage teaches us that fasting is not just about giving up food—it is about:

• Breaking sinful habits
• Helping those in need
• Seeking justice and righteousness

B. Jesus’ Teaching on Fasting (Matthew 6:16-18)

Jesus warns against fasting for show:

“When you fast, do not be somber like the hypocrites, for they disfigure their faces to show others they are fasting. Truly, I tell you, they have received their reward in full.” (Matthew 6:16)

Instead, He teaches:

• Fasting should be done with a humble heart.
• It should be between you and God, not to impress others.
• God rewards those who seek Him sincerely.

C. The Spiritual Benefits of Fasting

• Fasting helps us focus on God—it removes distractions and strengthens our faith.
• Fasting humbles us—it reminds us that we depend on God, not just physical food.
• Fasting brings breakthroughs—many in the Bible fasted when seeking God’s direction or deliverance.

Am I fasting with the right heart, seeking God, or just following a tradition?

 

III. How Repentance and Fasting Work Together

A. Fasting Without Repentance is Useless

• Fasting is NOT a substitute for repentance.
• If we fast but continue in sin, our fasting is meaningless.
• True fasting should lead to true repentance.

Example:
In Jonah 3:5-10, the people of Nineveh fasted and repented when Jonah preached God’s judgment. Because their hearts were sincere, God showed mercy.

B. Repentance and Fasting Bring Revival

• Throughout Scripture, fasting and repentance bring revival.
• When we fast and seek God’s face, He responds with grace and transformation.

C. Personal and Church-wide Application

• On a personal level:
• Repent from hidden sins, bad habits, or anything keeping you from God.
• Fast as a way to seek God’s strength and renewal.
• As a church/community:
• Join together in fasting and prayer for spiritual renewal.
• Seek repentance and unity in Christ.

How can I use fasting as a way to deepen my repentance and grow spiritually?

 

Conclusion: A Call to Action

As we reflect on repentance and fasting, let us commit to:
Repent sincerely, not just outwardly.
Fast with a right heart, seeking God’s presence.
Allow repentance and fasting to transform our lives.

What steps will I take this week to truly repent and seek God through fasting?