Dig Deeper
In the eight verses that make up 1 John 1:5-2:2
John uses the word “sin” nine times. While our culture usually tries to
downplay sin and evil, John addresses it head on. Ultimately there are only two
ways of dealing with sin. The first is to attempt to conceal our sin by either
hiding it from others, including God or lying to ourselves, “If we claim to be
without sin, we deceive ourselves” (1 John 1:8). The response urged by 1 John
is to confess our sin, “If we confess our sins, He is faithful and just and
will forgive us our sins and purify us from all unrighteousness” (1 John 1:9).
The English word confess is from the Greek word, homologeō meaning “to say the same thing as another or to
agree with another.” (Stongs, g3670) What do the following biblical examples of
confession reveal about its importance in our relationship with God?
Luke 19:8-9--
Acts 19:11-20--
Psalm 51:1-12--
Compare Job’s confession in Job 7:20-21 with Job
42:2-6. Why do you think God responded to Job in the later but not the former?
1 John 1:9 declares that God is both faithful and just in forgiving the one who confesses his sins. John explains that
God is just (or justified) in this
response because Jesus’ work as our propitiation
(atoning sacrifice- NIV) for sin (1 John 2:2). What benefits are yours because
of Christ’s propitiation?
1 John 2:1-2--
Hebrews 2:17-18; 9:11-14--
Colossians 1:21-22--
Application
The
Evangelist D. L. Moody frequently reminded his fellow Christians to “keep short
accounts with God.” He meant by this a lifestyle of confession and repentance
as soon as the Christian becomes aware of sin in his life. How are you sensing
the Holy Spirit’s lead to deepen your walk with God through confession?
Memorize This
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