Q4. Why is repentance so central to the Kingdom of God? Why is baptism important to converts to the King? Can Christ reign in an unrepentant heart?
I agree with what's been said, but I also think repentance helps ourselves. It frees us of the guilt and shame, allows us to feel as if we have cleared the slate so we can begin our new life and way of living. You can't begin a new way lugging the prior baggage around; it will pop it's ugly head up and create doubts, fears, insecurity. Repenting is a way of admitting our errors and allows us to humble ourselves before the Lord so we can ask for His forgiveness and guidance. He then can enter and help us through the Holy Spirit. Repenting knocks down that wall that keeps us separated and keeps us in sin.
I think baptism of the converts to the King showed their denying of the prior master. We cannot serve 2 masters. It shows where their loyalty is.
Christ won't reign in an unrepentant heart, but the good Shepherd will not stop knocking on that door hoping the lost will return to Him.
