The Characteristic of Repentance

After John rebukes the crowds for their false repentance, they then ask what they must do. John responds by revealing the single characteristic that evidences a true repentance, and must, therefore, accompany all true repentance. In this passage, John reveals the hallmark which will make up the coming community of the Messiah - Love. The challenge for all Christians is to honestly examine themselves to see if a true love for the church abides.