1. Do unbelievers need to believe the gospel AND confess their sins in order to be saved?
Salvation and the Confusion over I John 1:9 Scripture Reading: John 13:1-17

2. INTRODUCTION
I John 1:0 is misunderstood and misapplied by some.

3. The Recipient of the Epistles of John are Born-again Believers
Notice the pronouns ‘we’ and ‘you’ not ‘they’ (cf I Jn 2:18-19)
Notice the context (vs 3 ‘fellowship’ and vs 4 ‘full joy’)
Notice John’s inclusion of himself as a potential sinning Christian (1:6, )
Notice John’s recipients are called “little born-ones’ (2:1)

4. Forgiveness of Sin For Unbelievers
The forgiveness for unbelievers is based on faith alone, in the gospel of I Cor 15:3-4 (cf Acts 10:43, 13:38-39)
Unbelievers forgiveness is accomplished (when they believe) by being placed into their position in Christ
Eph 1:7
Col 1:14, 2:11-13

5. The Confession of a Believers sins restores Fellowship with God (AFTER the New Birth)
Believers still possess their sin nature
Believers still can uses their sin natures
When believers sin, they are not practicing their position in Christ
We are sinless IN CHRIST, but still possess a sin nature
When a believer sins, communion with God (fellowship) is broken – but never union with God

6. The Confession of a Believers Sins Restores Fellowship with God (not Sonship)
Unbelievers are never asked to confess their sins, but to be convinced of ONE sin (unbelief unto Christ)
Jn 16:8-9

7. Conclusion
One does not prepare or make themselves adequate or acceptable enough in order to be saved. One comes, just as they are – without one plea.
Romans 4:5 God justifies the ungodly. Only as God’s children should one confess after initial salvation in order to maintain potential fellowship with God.