RESPONSE TO BETHEL – What Godly Repentance Looks Like
GODLY REPENTANCE: It’s purpose and it’s fruit
In light of the statements made yesterday by Bethel leadership, I’m drawn to 2 Corinthians 7 where Paul talks about godly repentance. Some are suggesting that Bethel’s statements were made too late and for purely selfish gain. But Paul gives us a template by which we can assess any true repentance. He describes exactly what godly repentance should look like, how it often comes, and then clearly states it’s motivation and purpose.
HOW IT COMES
Paul had already written a rebuke to the Corinthian church because of some serious sexual sins in the church. His harsh rebuke produced a godly grief in them: “For even if I made you grieve with my letter, I do not regret it…for I see that that letter grieved you…I rejoice…because YOU WERE GRIEVED INTO REPENTING.” (2 Cor 7:8-9 ESV)
Some are citing the (only) reason for Bethel’s statements was because of all the public pressure. And yet, that’s the whole purpose. This is what (godly) confrontation does. It causes grief unto repentance. It stirs the soul and causes one to wake up to the realities of their sins. Thus, we shouldn’t be surprised that Bethel – or anyone else – will acknowledge their sins when rightly confronted (regardless of how long it took). Righteous exposure of sin tests the heart to see if there is any conscience at work that is willing to confess failures. A hardened heart will never respond to any kind of pressure (Shawn B). A teachable heart will (Prov 12:1).
WHAT IT LOOKS LIKE
Paul then lists the characteristics of godly repentance: “…what earnestness, what eagerness to clear yourselves, what indignation, what alarm, what longing, what concern, what readiness to see justice done…” (2 Cor 7:11 NIV) True repentance does not sidestep the issues, downplay the failure, or defer fault. It takes ownership and responsibility for wrongdoings and any failures before God. It acknowledges harm done to others and commits to change. Worldly sorrow is the opposite. It will deflect, speak in vague generalities, minimize the issues, and shift blame.
What I and many others witnessed in yesterdays statement was godly repentance. Yes, it must be tested by its fruit. But the grief expressed by all three leaders was authentic, genuine, and it demonstrated their readiness to do the right thing. But here is where some are still criticizing their statements. Are they merely trying to save their reputations? Are they doing it to calm the agitators? Protect a ministry? Perhaps. But Paul speaks to this as well…
WHO IS REPENTANCE FOR
Paul states that the ultimate goal of repentance “…was neither on account of the one who did the wrong, nor on account of the injured party, but rather that before God you could see for yourselves how devoted to us you are.” (2 Cor 7:12 NIV) Godly repentance is FOR THE SAKE OF CHRIST and His Body. Paul wanted them to step away from taking sides to seeking the testimony of Jesus. Ultimately, godly repentance is not to prove someone innocent or vindicate the victim. It’s about the testimony of Jesus. It’s about doing the right thing, regardless of who benefits. Because ultimately repentance is unto the Lord, not unto men.
Godly repentance takes time to “prove.” And the longer those sins and failures have been in operation, the longer it may be to see the lasting effects. But when expressed from a sincere heart, the fruit will come. But even in the waiting and watching, I side with Paul when he responded to the godly repentance expressed: “By all this we are all encouraged.”
Lastly, there have been two primary areas of concern. One has been the cover-up of gross leadership failures. But the other concerns doctrine – specifically related to spiritual gifts and experiences. Both are volatile. For now, I believe God’s priority is to address the deeper character issues in leadership. Perhaps when we get some better footing in settling the condition of our hearts, we can address the veracity of our beliefs. (Facebook, January 26, 2026)
