Assurance of Forgiveness
(1 John 1:9 NIV) If we confess our sins, he is faithful and just and will forgive us our sins and purify us from all unrighteousness.
Although victory over sin is rightfully yours, there will be times when you miss the "way of escape." You will fail and sin against God. Once you do, your enemy will be on the job immediately:
"Now you've done it. Aren't you supposed to be a Christian? Christians don't do those things."
But God makes provision in His Word for the failures of His children, as we see in
1 John 1:9. We receive His full forgiveness and full cleansing as we confess to Him our sins. To confess a sin means to uncover it and call it exactly what God calls it. This honest confession must include the willingness to forsake the sin. God promises not only to forgive us, but also to cleanse us from ALL unrighteousness. What a gracious provision!
Exploring 1 John 1:9
What does God want you to do about your sins?
What does it mean to confess?
In His act of forgiving us, how is God described?
What else does God do when you confess your sins?
"If We Confess Our Sins"
Read 1 John 1:8-10. What did John say you should recognize about yourself?
What should be your attitude toward sin?
Psalm 139:23-24 Psalm 38:18
What should accompany your confession of sin, according to Proverbs 28:13?
"He Is Faithful And Just And Will Forgive …And Purify"
How is God described in Psalm 86:5?
According to Ephesians 1:7, on what basis are you forgiven?
What does Hebrews 10:12 say about Christ's sacrifice?
Read Hebrews 10:17. Why is it foolish for you to continue to feel guilty about sin?
According to Ephesians 4:32, what should be your attitude toward those who have offended you? Why?
Write Out 1 John 1:9 From Memory
Applying 1 John 1:9
Perhaps as you worked on this lesson something came to your mind which is hindering your fellowship with God - some sin you have committed for which you have not asked forgiveness. If so, write down what God brought to your mind.
Confess this to god, and claim the promise of 1 John 1:9 that He has forgiven your sin. Thank Him for His forgiveness and receive the fact that you are, at this moment, also cleansed from ALL unrighteousness.