In the following 'If' statements, Scripture reveals two ways people deal with the guilt of living as flawed human beings ... If we say that we have no sin, we deceive ourselves, and the truth is not in us. If we confess our sins, He is faithful and just to forgive us our sins and to cleanse us from all unrighteousness. (1 John 1:8-9)
Notice that each path has a predetermined destination. The first results in a fraudulent, unstable, 'whitewashed' existence. The second is freedom from the moorings of our fallen nature ... paid for on Calvary's cross.
Spurgeon - If you say you have no sin, you have put out your own eyes and perverted your own reason.
A right standing before a holy God is not based on some inane 'goodness quotient' (how your life compares to that of others). The Bible pounds this truth home ... If we say that we have not sinned, we make Him a liar and His word is not in us. (1 John 1:10)
'Confession' confronts 'Denial' head-on.
King David came to that profound truth ... When I kept silent, my bones wasted away through my groaning all day long. For day and night, your hand was heavy on me; my strength was sapped as in the heat of summer. Then I acknowledged my sin to you and did not cover up my iniquity. I said, “I will confess my transgressions to the Lord.” And you forgave the guilt of my sin. (Psalm 32:3-5)
Though all of your sins (past, present, and future) are forgiven when you receive the gift of salvation, you're not home yet. Confession keeps sin from crippling your walk of faith ... from breaking your fellowship with Christ ... from weakening your personal testimony.
Ongoing sanctification depends on your willingness to let God radically deal with your life ... Being confident of this very thing, that He which hath begun a good work in you will perform it until the day of Jesus Christ. (Philippians 1:6)
His 'Grace' doesn't shelve the need to 'confess' sin. We must keep a short list and repent quickly.
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