Many Christians find it troubling (yes, myself included) that they repeatedly deal with certain sins. And they rightly turn to 1st John 1:9 for assurance:
‘If we confess our sins, He is faithful and just to forgive us our sins, and to cleanse us from all unrighteousness.’ 1st John 1:9
They’re relieved to know God forgives our sins, and they promise to do better. But some people have misunderstood this verse- they believe our salvation is tied to continual confession.
There’s a big difference between a relationship (the unbreakable Father-child bond) and fellowship (our line of communication). Certainly, confession plays a vital role in maintaining intimate communication with the Father, but the believer’s standing as His child cannot change. Fellowship with God is interrupted by sin but restored when we confess and repent. Then we are freed from the emotional bondage of guilt and shame.
‘If I regard iniquity in my heart, The Lord will not hear me: But verily God hath heard me; He hath attended to the voice of my prayer.’ Psalm 66:18-19
As we mature in our faith, the inclination to sin will decrease. But as long as our earthly life continues, we won’t be fully free of fleshly tendencies. Romans 8:1 offers this additional reassurance:
‘There is therefore now no condemnation to them which are in Christ Jesus, who walk not after the flesh, but after the Spirit.’ Romans 8:1
So while our sin may have temporal consequences, we can be certain God has fully pardoned us.
