Surely after that I was turned, I repented; and after that I was instructed, I smote upon my thigh: I was ashamed, yea, even confounded, because I did bear the reproach of my youth.
Vitally important to the text is the context of hopefulness through the promised Saviour. He is referenced both in verse 15 and in verse 22. These verses, and their fulfillment in Christ, prove this passage to be Messianic.
Now note the progression of our text.
After I was turned, I repented
The word, turned, has to do with retreat or surrender. The lost man is at odds with God. He fights the Lord. He fights His Word. He fights His righteousness. No one ever finds hope before surrendering that battle. It is only after he turns that He repents. He has a change of heart, mind, and direction.
After I repented, I was instructed
Having had a change in heart and mind, man can now receive instruction. One of the most useless things I have ever attempted is to instruct one whose mind is already set. He is unreachable until he surrenders and repents.
After I was instructed, I bore the reproach of my youth
The process of sanctification, that of putting off the sins of the flesh, happens only after one has a new heart. The Great Commission sets the order as
1. Teach them the Gospel.
2. Baptize those who are converted through it.
3. Finally, teach them to observe all things that Jesus commanded.
Once a soul has repented, they then have the clarity of mind to recognize sin for what it is, become ashamed of it, and put it off in favor of something so much better.
To my readers:
Thank you! It is a great joy to me to know you read the thoughts and lessons God has given me in His word. I would love to hear from you. Please feel free to leave comments.
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