Why repentance?

The message of John Baptist, Jesus, Peter, and Paul, was repent and believe the gospel. This was preached to unbelievers. Sinners were to repent of sin as identified by sin against God.

Calling to repentance is love for God's glory which the sinner wages war against.  If you love God, you don't like to see people waging war against the God you love.  Therefore, as God's ambassador, you call them to repent, turn from their war against God.

Calling to repentance is love for the sinner, seeking to turn them into a lover of God versus a hater of God, and turn them from the justice of God to the grace of God.  If they continue on their way, they remain separated from God, and ultimately will face His eternal justice and condemnation.

This message of love is given to every member of the church to deliver.  Everyone who is given the Spirit of God is a witness of Christ and for God.  His grace is praised, His love declared...but also why grace and love are so special.  In light of the justice and wrath you deserved, God has demonstrated Himself gracious and loving through repentance and faith, giving you what you do not deserve.

Will you encounter sinners in your travels today?

Love God and sinners as Jesus loved you.  He called you to repent and believe the gospel, for the kingdom of heaven is at hand.