The Power of Confession, Part I

"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." - I John 1:8-9 (NKJV)

Think about the word "Confession" for just a moment . . .

As you ponder its definition, what thoughts come to mind? Perhaps you're envisioning someone sitting in a confessional telling another person how he/she erred this week. Maybe you see images of people buying into the doctrine that says "All you have to do is name it & claim it". Unfortunately, neither of these examples properly depicts this foundational principle of the Christian Faith. Confession is paramount to our walk, and the Apostle John shows us in this text just how powerful Biblical confession is.

WHAT EXACTLY IS CONFESSION?

The word confession comes from the Greek word "homologia", which means "to say the same." When we confess, we acknowledge that what God says through the Scriptures is true. Furthermore, confession involves a commitment not to continue in sin. For example, if God says we should walk in the light and put off all forms of darkness, when we confess,we're agreeing that His directives are our standard (see Romans13:12-14). When you make up in your mind to say what God says, no matter what, confession becomes a part of your lifestyle and not an occasional event. Know that our spiritual lives are productive to the degree that we refuse to be people who live apart from confession.

WHY SHOULD WE CONFESS?

#1 - Every person has a sin problem. John says that our sin nature is still very much a part of who we are, even as Christians progressing toward holiness. In verse 8, he says that if our sin nature had been completely done away with, there would be no need for Christ to return one day. If we think we have no sin problem, we're victims of self-deception because the truth of scripture repeatedly tells us that Christ died for our sins.

#2 - Unconfessed sin has consequences. Confession prohibits the enemy from hanging your sins over your head. satan would have you tobelieve that you're getting away with your sin when you don't confess(the sin of omission). The harsh reality is God already knows about the sin, and you will have to give an account for it (see Hebrews4:13). Without true confession, it's impossible for anyone to understand how abundantly God forgives, and how rich He is in mercy.By confessing your sin, you work against one of the worst parts of our human nature; the part that imagines itself to be better than itreally is.

Edifying, Encouraging & Enlightening,Excelsius
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