1 John 1:8-10
If we claim to be without sin, we deceive ourselves and the truth is not in us. If we confess our sins, he is faithful and just and will forgive us our sins and purify us from all unrighteousness. If we claim we have not sinned, we make him out to be a liar and his word has no place in our lives.
James 5:16
…confess your sins to each other and pray for each other so that you may be healed.
This morning in staff meeting we had one of those uncomfortable conversations. We explored the importance of confession. Specifically, the power of confessing sins to one another. Most of us do not make a habit of talking about our sins. Our tendency is to keep quiet about wrong attitudes and actions. For me, it’s easier to talk about wrong things I did a long time ago—after all, that was then, this is now. I am much more reluctant to reveal this morning’s anger, lust, rudeness, greed or pride.
Also, when I am convicted about a sin I’d prefer to confess it just to God thank you very much. But often that is just a cop out, a self-deceiving ruse to keep my sin secret. That is why James says “confess your sins to each other….” The sin that is unshared with a brother continues to thrive and it retains its hold on us. But the sin that is brought into the light of God's truth and Christian community dies there.
There is remarkable power in confessing our wrong deeds to another person. Instead of destroying relationships, it tends to strengthen them. Instead of ongoing shame and struggle we receive grace and a sense of forgiveness. We experience a new power over the thing that has held us captive.
We sin. Let’s not pretend we don’t. Acknowledging your sin is the very thing that can make you lessof a sinner.
What sin do you need to share?
Brian
If we claim to be without sin, we deceive ourselves and the truth is not in us. If we confess our sins, he is faithful and just and will forgive us our sins and purify us from all unrighteousness. If we claim we have not sinned, we make him out to be a liar and his word has no place in our lives.
James 5:16
…confess your sins to each other and pray for each other so that you may be healed.
This morning in staff meeting we had one of those uncomfortable conversations. We explored the importance of confession. Specifically, the power of confessing sins to one another. Most of us do not make a habit of talking about our sins. Our tendency is to keep quiet about wrong attitudes and actions. For me, it’s easier to talk about wrong things I did a long time ago—after all, that was then, this is now. I am much more reluctant to reveal this morning’s anger, lust, rudeness, greed or pride.
Also, when I am convicted about a sin I’d prefer to confess it just to God thank you very much. But often that is just a cop out, a self-deceiving ruse to keep my sin secret. That is why James says “confess your sins to each other….” The sin that is unshared with a brother continues to thrive and it retains its hold on us. But the sin that is brought into the light of God's truth and Christian community dies there.
There is remarkable power in confessing our wrong deeds to another person. Instead of destroying relationships, it tends to strengthen them. Instead of ongoing shame and struggle we receive grace and a sense of forgiveness. We experience a new power over the thing that has held us captive.
We sin. Let’s not pretend we don’t. Acknowledging your sin is the very thing that can make you lessof a sinner.
What sin do you need to share?
Brian
