Lord’s Day 33

Q88. What does true repentance (turning from sin) involve?

Two things: the dying of the old self, and the coming to life of the new self.

Scripture Proofs — King James Version

Romans 6:1–11

2 Corinthians 5:17

Ephesians 4:22–24

Colossians 3:5–10

Parent Guide

Discuss this question together

Discussion Questions

1
What two things does the catechism say true repentance involves?
2
Why do you think both parts are necessary and not just one?
3
Can you describe what "dying of the old self" and "coming to life of the new self" look like in everyday life?

Illustration

Taking off a muddy coat and putting on a clean one are two parts of the same action. You would not just take off the dirty coat and stand in the cold. And putting a clean coat over a muddy one would ruin the clean one. Repentance means putting off the old sinful ways and putting on the new life Christ gives.

Application

Choose one sinful habit you want to "take off" this week. Then choose one good habit to "put on" in its place. Ask God to help you with both, because true change involves both turning from sin and turning toward him.