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NASB | 1 John 1:9 If we confess our sins, He is faithful and righteous to forgive us our sins and to cleanse us from all unrighteousness. |
AMPLIFIED 2015 | 1 John 1:9 If we [freely] admit that we have sinned and confess our sins, He is faithful and just [true to His own nature and promises], and will forgive our sins and cleanse us continually from all unrighteousness [our wrongdoing, everything not in conformity with His will and purpose]. |
Bible Question:
As believers, we know that Jesus provides forgiveness of sins. My question is, when are our sins forgiven? 1. Were they all forgiven at the cross when our Lord said, "Father, forgive them...?" 2. Are they in a process of 'being forgiven' as we confess them? (My reason for asking. Every communion service we are urged to confess our sins and receive forgiveness. Yet, our pastor preaches that Jesus forgave all our sins, past, present, and future. This seems contradictory.) If we must ask for more forgiveness, and Christ grants it, does this violate Hebrews 9:22 - "...and without the shedding of blood there is no forgiveness." |
Bible Answer: I think that you are answering your own question by the light of the Holy Spirit. Follow the Spirit and not the teachings of religious leaders if there is a conflict. The Spirit will lead you to Truth. True communion should be a celebration of the completed work of Jesus Christ, not a morbid experience. The judegement that these people were bringing onto themselves was the judgement of the ones that they treated unlovingly by eating all the bread and getting drunk on the wine. Talk about an unworthy manner, huh. I never want to diminish the hard work and service of leaders, but sometimes I think that they follow the traditions of men when they can solve these questions by searching and praying for Spirit led answers instead of denominational direction. It often leads to totally illogical statements and sermons just like what you are bringing up. I believe that you have hit a goldmine for your own growth in Christ here, friend....we are forgiven and are given the LIFE of Christ and we need to let Him live His life through as as we are all members of His body over which He is the head. God bless |