Christocentric Meal (January, 9th) | What Then Is Confession Of Sins? (1)

The video begins with a recap of previous discussions, emphasizing that forgiveness is not an ongoing effort by God, but a completed work in Christ, received by faith. All believers in the Gospel have forgiveness as a present reality; they have been eternally forgiven by God.

The speaker addresses the common question: 'What then is confession of sins?' In the Old Testament, confession was an act performed by the high priest on behalf of the Israelites, laying hands on a scapegoat and confessing their sins. This was a conditional forgiveness, dependent on confession. Even though individuals were required to confess, it was the high priest who had the sole responsibility of confessing Israel's sins on the scapegoat.

The video highlights that Jesus, as our High Priest, is the one who ought to do the confession for us. Unlike the Old Testament, where John the Baptist also preached individual confession for the remission of sins, the New Testament epistles do not instruct believers to confess sins to God for forgiveness. Under the New Covenant, confession is hinged on acknowledging the finished work of Christ. Jesus became sin for us, fulfilling the demand for sin's payment.

The speaker references 1 John 1:9, which seems to instruct believers to confess their sins. However, he suggests a deeper study, noting that the blessing of forgiveness in the New Testament, as emphasized by Paul, is based on belief in Christ's work, not on a condition of confession. To confess one's sins implies paying a debt, making Christ's sacrifice seem useless. In Christ, no sin is imputed against a believer, hence no need for confessing sins as an Old Testament practice.

The wife, Dr. Richard Amina, clarifies that while God has eternally sorted out our forgiveness through Christ, confession among believers for human interactions and interpersonal relationships is still important. Confessing faults to one another fosters trust and healthy relationships, allowing for healing and restoration. However, God does not require our confession for forgiveness because Christ has already paid the price.

The discussion shifts to the importance of belonging to a local church. Despite arguments against it, the speaker emphasizes that the Bible promotes assembling with other believers for accountability, discipline, and productivity. God has designed for believers to belong to local assemblies for perfecting, equipping, and training. The church provides leadership and spiritual authority.

The first criterion for choosing a local church is the desire for spiritual growth. A good church should focus on teaching and equipping believers, rather than superficial aspects like large congregations, good music, or visitor amenities. The core purpose is to be fed the pure word of God, which leads to growth and liberation.

The second criterion is the church's devotion to prayer, particularly praying in the spirit (in tongues). Prayer demonstrates trust and dependence on God and makes power available to deal with life's challenges. The speaker clarifies that this is not about prayers of vengeance or anger, but prayers aligned with God's loving character, for all saints. Churches that teach hatred or destruction are not aligned with Christ's teachings.

Praying in tongues, as outlined in 1 Corinthians 14:2, allows believers to speak mysteries to God and edify themselves, making spiritual progress. It's a language of immortality that builds up the inner man and generates power. A good Bible church trains members to pray and sing in the spirit and with understanding, fostering a dynamic and powerful spiritual life, enabling believers to live a life of victory in Christ.

Many believers live far below the quality of life available through Christ due to lack of knowledge. True victory and glory are experienced on earth, not just in heaven. Challenges will come, but with the right knowledge and understanding of Christ, believers can come out triumphant. The speaker concludes by emphasizing the importance of keeping Jesus before one's eyes, rather than focusing on personal failures, to experience total victory.