Bible Question:
Is it the realization that we are already forgiven that leads us to repent? Or does forgiveness come after our repentance has begun? Or does forgiveness come at the moment we decide we are in need of repentance? It seems this issue divides many churches I've visited. |
Bible Answer: Greetings Dalprad! Great question! Here is my short answer! There are two elements to forgiveness of sins: 1) The objective reality. 2) The subjective reception. The Objective Reality: By this, I simply mean that all sins were forgiven on the cross through the blood of Christ. Scripture is very clear about this point. a) Mt. 26:28 - "This is my blood of the covenant, which is poured out for many for the forgiveness of sins." b) Eph. 1:7 - "In him we have redemption through his blood, the forgiveness of sins, in accordance with the riches of God’s grace" Both of these verses speak of forgiveness of sins as an accomplished fact because of the blood of Christ. The Subjective Reception: However, the benefits of the cross must be accepted through faith. a) Acts 10:43 - "All the prophets testify about him that everyone who believes in him receives forgiveness of sins through his name.”" b) Acts 13:38 - " ‘‘Therefore, my brothers, I want you to know that through Jesus the forgiveness of sins is proclaimed to you. 39 Through him everyone who believes is justified from everything you could not be justified from by the law of Moses." c) Acts 26:18 - "to open their eyes and turn them from darkness to light, and from the power of Satan to God, so that they may receive forgiveness of sins and a place among those who are sanctified by faith in me.’" These three verses all speak of one having to receive forgiveness. So, we are already forgiven, but we receive that forgiveness when we believe! Your Brother in Christ, Tim Moran |