Repentance

by John Colquhoun D.D.

In this treatment of the biblical doctrine of repentance the author distinguishes between evangelical or true repentance and legal repentance. Though the latter may be produced by a fear of God's wrath and lead to reformation of life, it is an experience which falls short of salvation. Evangelical repentance, on the other hand, is the result of the Holy Spirit's work in regeneration, is inseperable from faith in Jesus Christ, and is evidenced by turning from all sin to God.

Genres: Theology

199 pages, Paperback

First published June 1, 2010

Reviews

[Paddy · Rating 5 out of 5]

One of the best books I've ever read!

[Daniel · Rating 5 out of 5]

An outstanding book on the nature of evangelical repentance. Understanding the difference between mere legal repentance and true repentance unto life is essential both to preaching the gospel in the pulpit and counselling sinners in private. Much confusion abounds in professedly evangelical circles as a result of not distinguishing between these two kinds of repentance. Sinners must realise that trying to repent before they have believed is a vain thing, as we may only truly repent when we are doing so out of a true apprehension of the mercy of God in Christ Jesus.

[Benjamin Glaser · Rating 4 out of 5]

Brilliant work by John Colquhoun (pronounced like a former Vice President) that lays out in very readable terms the differences between what he terms "natural" repentance, (i.e. - feeling sorry for doing something wrong), "legal" repentance, (i.e. - regret/fear produced in the heart of a legalist), and "evangelical" repentance, (i.e. - Godly sorrow finding its ground in Christ's mercy).

[Chad Grindstaff · Rating 5 out of 5]

Though Colquhoun delves into controversy and objections over one of his main points (that faith is prior to repentance), there is so much in this book that is wonderfully helpful. It is a superb book that corrects the Christian’s normal slide to think about sin based on what it does in his/her life rather than in view of what sin is in relation to God (an affront to his holiness, etc…).

This is an excellent book and well worth the read, if for nothing else but to push the Christian to look more and more intently at the mercy of God in Christ for his people and let that drive us to a continual life of repentance.

[Andrew Davis · Rating 5 out of 5]

This book is very helpful for thinking through and discerning between true and false repentance. John Colquhoun was the expert of Marrow Theology in his day. I have also found his other works very helpful. This book would be very helpful for pastors to read, because it will undoubtedly make their preaching more "evangelical."

[Steve · Rating 5 out of 5]

Not an easy read, but well worth the time and effort. I plan to read this again.

[Elijah · Rating 5 out of 5]

Very helpful for balancing the necessity of true repentance, and the freeness and radical nature of the gospel offer. Jesus takes us in spite of what we are, but he never leaves us as we are. Superb!