Confession of Sin

Two most important words Both affect your relationship with God For believers For unbelievers Two most important words Both affect your relationship with God “confess” “Believe”

Definition of confession? To agree with; say the same thing 1 John 1:9 “Confess” To agree with; say the same thing Agree with what God says about what you thought or did 2. Be sorry for that sin and repent 3. Ask God to forgive you and help you not to do it again

Key verses on Confession of sin 1 John 1:9 Psalm 19:12 Psalm 32:5 Proverbs 28:13 Psalm 51:2 James 4:8 James 5:16a

How confession works 1. Agree that it was sin 2. Be sorry and repent of that sin 3. Ask God to forgive you and help you to not do it again

Two Types of Confession of Sin Unbelievers (Romans 10:9) Your daily choice A one-time event Believers (1 John 1:9) Unbelievers (Romans 10:9)

When Should You Confess Your Sin? To Whom do you confess your sin? Immediately after you realize you have sinned Regularly search your heart (Psalm 139:23,24) To Whom do you confess your sin? To God (Psalm 51:4) To others whom you sinned against (James 5:16a)

How to Confess Your Sin 1. Name your sin specifically: “Dear God I sinned by_____” 2. Express your sorrow and desire to turn from that sin (repent) 3. Ask for God’s forgiveness and help to not do it again.

The results of Confession Forgiveness Cleansing  To remove; cancel; send away  Restored to purity/holiness before God Psalm 51:2,7 Psalm 103:12 Isaiah 38:17 Micah 7:19 Hebrews 10:17

unconfessed sin causes a loss of . . . Psalm 51:12 1 John 1:6 1 John 1:7 1 John 2:3-5 Fellowship with God Fellowship with saints Assurance of Salvation Joy 1 Cor. 3:1-4 Psalm 66:18 1 Cor. 9:24-27 Proverbs 28:13 Understand Scripture Answered prayer Ministry opportunities Blessing 1 Cor. 11:30 1 John 5:16 1 Timothy 4:2 2 Cor. 5:10 Physical health Physical life Sensitivity to sin Eternal reward