If we confess our sins, He is faithful and just to forgive us our sins and to cleanse us from all unrighteousness. – 1 John 1:9
Apostle John through the above scripture is teaching us the importance of confession. This letter is addressed to all who claim to have fellowship with Christ, yet are living in sin, He is encouraging us to walk in the light as God is in the light (1 John 1: 7). He is emphasizing that our Faith and walk should be in harmony with God’s will. To do so awareness of who we are without Him is needed (Ephesians 2:1).
1 John 1:9 says “If we confess our sins” and not “If we justify our sins”; What are Confession and Justification? Are they same? Confession is acknowledging and admitting the truth/wrong of what we have done. Justification is declaring an acceptable reason for doing something, Hence they are not same. However, let us examine: if God convicts us of our wrongdoing, how will we react? Humanly we try to declare the reason for doing it but God expects us to confess ie. admit and acknowledge without any reason. He is an all-knowing God, He surely knows our motives better than us.
To confess we need faith that our redeemer did not come to condemn us but to restore us (Romans 8:1 and John 3:16-19). This truth should encourage us to boldly confess our sins so that we can experience the promised forgiveness and sanctification. Yes! the reward of confession is His forgiveness and restoration.
Blessed Day Ahead.
