Quote (unrealpk @ Apr 11 2013 08:48pm)
It is my understanding that salvation comes from turning to Jesus; repenting for your sins accomplishes nothing towards salvation. This does that mean that you shouldn't repent.
Also keep in mind there are technically two ways to heaven: One is Jesus, the other is to live a sinless life. Masturbation is acceptable if you are glorifying God while you do it. Living a sinless life and glorifying God while masturbating are almost completely impossible. (Only Jesus could do this.) As for sex before marriage... its absolutely wrong, immoral, and forgivable. But it is your choice to life a lifestyle that serves and honors God, or to continue in a lifestyle of sin. If you have truly given your heart to God then you will make the right decision (Sometimes we need to call on the strength of Jesus to help us). We are all sinners, and we all slip up, but like Dune1 said, you don't want to fall into a lifestyle of sin, that can lead you down a very very bad path. This is how I abandoned God (I'm back now, but I am careful to resist temptation.)
So in conclusion: You should always be a Christian, not just when it is convenient for you. Worshiping God is a lifestyle, not just church or the few minutes of music. Show Him that you are following his light with every part of your life, every minute, every second. You will have a great reward in heaven awaiting you for eternity, which far surpasses the trivial moments here on earth where you are given difficult opportunities to obey God.
PS. I have discussed masturbation with pastors and am convinced it is absolutely wrong. So watch our that our planks are removed before we go admonishing our fellow Christians for their speck of dust.
We are called to repent when we decide to follow Jesus. Following Jesus means we also follow his commands. Without repenting, forgiveness cannot be given.