Life-Changing Spiritual Disciplines: Biblical Confession (Part 3) | John Black | 06-04-17

Life-Changing Spiritual Disciplines: Biblical Confession, Part 3

Date:  June 4, 2017

Text:  James 5:16

Pastor John Black

 

Listening Guide

 

A quick review of what we have covered …

I. Two types of necessary divine forgiveness …

1. Judicial Forgiveness -- Forgiveness of sin’s penalty
2. Parental Forgiveness -- Forgiveness from sin’s consequences

II. Why is confession necessary for a Christian?

• Christians are frequently in need of parental forgiveness!
• Christians are harmed spiritually by unconfessed sin!

III. What does Biblical confession require?

• A recognition and acknowledgement of our sin
• A deep sorrow for our sin
• A personal confession to God regarding our sin
• A determination to stop engaging in the sin

IV. Three Biblical types of sin requiring confession:

• Secret Sin – Sin known only to God
• Private Sin – Sin committed against another person
• Public Sin – Sin committed against the church

V. Who should I confess my sins to?

• Always to God
• The person or persons I committed the sin against

“The circle of response should be no wider than the circle of offense.”

• A person or persons who can help me live a righteous life

VI. When should I confess my sin to another person?

• When my sin has wronged another person (Matthew 5:22-24)
• When I need help overcoming my sins (Ephesians 4:11-16, Galatians 6:1-2)
• When I need to “feel” forgiven and not just “be” forgiven (James 5:16)
• When the Holy Spirit directs me (Galatians 5:25, John 16:13a)

VII. What should I look for in a person to confide in?

• Someone who is of the same gender
• Someone who is living their life in accordance with Scripture
• Someone who will listen more than they will talk
• Someone who will speak the truth in love
• Someone who has been proven trustworthy

VIII. How should I respond when someone chooses to confide in me?

• Be accepting
• Be quiet
• Be prayerful