Heb. 6:1 (KJV) Therefore leaving the principles of the doctrine of Christ, let us go on unto perfection; not laying again the foundation of repentance from dead works,
The literal definition of the word repent is “to perceive afterwards.” I may have developed a sinful habit before I came to Christ. The opportunity to repent came once I understood that the habit was sinful. If, however, I commit that act again, now knowing that it is wrong, there is no further opportunity for repentance, for I knew that it was wrong before I committed the act. At that point, I must ask for forgiveness. Consider Paul’s statement: “For it is impossible for those who were once enlightened, and have tasted of the heavenly gift, and were made partakers of the Holy Ghost, And have tasted the good word of God, and the powers of the world to come, If they shall fall away, to renew them again unto repentance; seeing they crucify to themselves the Son of God afresh, and put him to an open shame.” The process of renewing is not repetitive. The need is not for the Lord to have to renew us again and again; the need is for us to live a renewed life once He has touched us. Each time I knowingly transgress, I make His crucifixion of no effect. So, then, I must ask a question each time I must choose between satisfying God or satisfying myself: Which is more important – to satisfy myself, or to prevent Christ from being put to an open shame? The key to living a Spirit-filled life lies in the answer to this question.
