"If we confess our sins, He is faithful and just to forgive us our sins and to cleanse us from all unrighteousness"
(1 John 1:9 NKJV)

do not view sin lightly

John’s context clearly addresses Christians. “Our fellowship is with the Father and with His Son Jesus Christ” (1 John 1:3). John writes so that our joy may be full (1 John 1:4). To abide in His fellowship, we must shun the darkness and walk in truth (1 John 1:6).

God admonishes us to walk in the light in order to enjoy fellowship with one another and to be cleansed from all sin by the blood of His Son (1 John 1:7). Walking in the light requires us to acknowledge and to confess our sins (1 John 1:8). One who boasts that he has no sin is self-deceived.

The Christian cannot view sin lightly. We must confess our sins. Confess means “to speak the same thing as.” The deceived person claims that he has no sin (1 John 1:8). 1 John 1:9 requires the opposite: we must freely confess (that is, say the same thing as) Scripture: “All have sinned, and come short of the glory of God” (Romans 3:23). John includes himself with the rest of us — every accountable person needs God’s forgiveness and cleansing.

The good news is that God is faithful: He is true to His promise to forgive us. He is also just (righteous). He gives to each his due. This is good for the person who confesses and receives forgiveness of sins. But one who denies his sins must realize the eternal danger of his stubborn course. God’s purpose is to remove both our sins and our false security.

When God forgives our debt, He cleanses us from sin (Isaiah 1:18). There is no security in denying our sinful state. Our only hope lies in confessing our sins and being saved by His amazing grace. We must run to Him for mercy. No one has ever successfully run away from God. Remember Jonah?

– Rick Duggin