Q7 How does the experience of Saul, later to be called Paul, show us how the Holy Spirit works to turn us around?
It is hard for thee to kick against the pricks. Acts 9:5
NOTE: Even today we speak of our conscience ‘pricking us’ when we feel guilty.
Q8 What is our first reaction when we are awakened to knowing our sin?
And he [Saul] trembling and astonished said, Lord, what wilt thou have me to do? Acts 9:6
What must I do to be saved? Acts 16:30
Now when they heard this [i.e. when they realised they had crucified the Messiah], they were pricked in their heart, and said unto Peter and to the rest of the apostles, Men and brethren, what shall we do? Acts 2:37
Q9 What does the Bible say is the first step towards God?
For I acknowledge my transgressions: and my sin is ever before me. Psalm 51:3
He that covereth his sins shall not prosper: but whoso confesseth and forsaketh them shall have mercy. Proverbs 28:13
NOTE: Hidden sins cause us pain and guilt, and sometimes even illness.
Q10 Even if we have hurt someone else whom are we in fact sinning against?
Against thee, thee only, have I sinned, and done this evil in thy sight. Psalm 51:4
Q11 What does God counsel us to do when we have this painful realisation of our sin?
Repent, and turn yourselves from all your transgressions; so iniquity shall not be your ruin. Ezekiel 18:31
Wherefore turn yourselves, and live ye. Ezekiel 18:32
But showed first unto them of Damascus, and at Jerusalem, and throughout all the coasts of Judaea, and then to the Gentiles, that they should repent and turn to God, and do works meet for repentance. Acts 26:20
Q12 What leads us to repentance?
Or despisest thou the riches of his goodness and forbearance and longsuffering; not knowing that the goodness of God leadeth thee to repentance? Romans 2:4
Q13 What is to be our experience when the Holy Spirit reveals our sins to us?
For godly sorrow worketh repentance to salvation. 2 Corinthians 7:10 |
