1 John 1:8-10 CEB
8 If we claim, “We don’t have any sin,” we deceive ourselves and the truth is not in us. 9 But if we confess our sins, he is faithful and just to forgive us our sins and cleanse us from everything we’ve done wrong. 10 If we claim, “We have never sinned,” we make him a liar and his word is not in us.
Confessing sin is a vital aspect of nurturing a healthy relationship with God. Believing in sinless perfection is not only a form of self-deception but also a barrier to genuine fellowship with a holy God. As the apostle John stresses, denying our sins does not exalt us but rather distances us from the truth. On the contrary, confession aligns us with God's perspective and paves the way for forgiveness and purification. Through owning up to our transgressions and seeking God's mercy, we display humility and a sincere desire to mend our connection with Him. Let us not fall into the trap of claiming flawlessness but instead openly admit our sins, recognizing that God is faithful and just to forgive and cleanse us.
When we repent of our sins and confess our faults, we can rely on the advocacy of our Lord Jesus Christ, who serves as the intermediary between us and the Father. This restores our relationship with God, allowing us to walk in the light of the Lord in peace with both God and man. This promise is found in 1 John 2:1-2. My little children, I’m writing these things to you so that you don’t sin. But if you do sin, we have an advocate with the Father, Jesus Christ the righteous one. 2 He is God’s way of dealing with our sins, not only ours but the sins of the whole world.
In conclusion, the biblical teaching emphasizes the crucial role of confessing our sins in maintaining a healthy and authentic relationship with God. Denying our sins or claiming to be without fault not only deceives ourselves but also hinders our connection with a holy God. By acknowledging our transgressions and seeking God's forgiveness, we align ourselves with His truth and open the door to receiving His mercy and cleansing. This act of humility and repentance is essential for restoring our fellowship with God. Moreover, when we confess our sins, we have the assurance of Jesus Christ's advocacy on our behalf, as He serves as the mediator between us and the Father. Through His sacrificial work, our sins are dealt with, and we are able to walk in the light of the Lord, experiencing peace with both God and others.