Build: Repentance & Forgiveness (Benj Lyon)

In this message Benj shares on repentance and forgiveness as essential foundations for God’s presence among His people. Using the parable of the prodigal son (Luke 15:11–32) and David’s heartfelt prayer of repentance in Psalm 51, he explains that true repentance is more than a change of mind — it’s a change of heart, a turning away from sin and turning back to God.Benj reminds us of the promise in Acts 3:19: “Repent, then, and turn to God, so that your sins may be wiped out, that times of refreshing may come from the Lord.” Repentance makes space for God’s Spirit to fully dwell in us, and forgiveness removes guilt and shame so we can walk in freedom. With practical illustrations, he encourages us to adopt a lifestyle of repentance — daily allowing the Holy Spirit to shine His light, convict us of sin (John 16:8), and clean house so that God’s presence feels fully at home.Just as Lazarus was raised to life but needed his grave clothes removed (John 11:43–44), we too must let go of guilt and shame, walking in the forgiveness Christ has already secured for us. Repentance and forgiveness are not heavy burdens but gifts that bring renewal, freedom, and the joy of salvation (Lamentations 3:22–23, Psalm 51:10–12).