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Owning Up



If we say that we have no sin, we deceive ourselves, and the truth is not in us. 1 John 1:8 (NKJV)





As Christians, we're capable of making two mistakes. On the one hand, we can give our sin so much credit that we see it as an obstacle that can never be scaled. That's inaccurate because the Holy Spirit does enable us to overcome sin as we cultivate an ever-deepening relationship with Him.



On the other hand, we can also give ourselves too much credit as the Spirit gives us victory. We can forget how weak and vulnerable we really are. Pride sets in, and we walk around with a holier-than-thou attitude, which is what John warns us against in the verse above.



The truth is, even with the Holy Spirit at our disposal, we're still going to sin. Not because the Spirit is deficient, but because we are. Sinless perfection is something none of us will ever attain in this life. There's just no getting around it. But when we do sin, when our frail frames show themselves, the Lord gives us a prescription for recovery and restoration:



"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)



God anticipates that we're still going to fall (not jump) into sin, and He tells us that we need to own up to it when we do. It doesn't do any good to deny our sin, but through the process of confessing it to Him, we find forgiveness and cleansing that deepens our relationship with Him.



By no means does this give us a license to sin. Yet at the same time, God wants us to know that He's able to make all things-even our sin-turn out for the good of those who love Him...when we own up to it.



Discuss with your group the importance of a proper perspective toward sin. Share how the study this month has helped you gain a balanced and Biblical perspective toward your sinful nature.



Dig into 1 John Chapter 1. What promises do you find here for believers? What warnings are offered here? How does this passage give you hope in your struggle with sin?



Decide as a group to take your message of freedom and forgiveness to the street. Plan an outreach to the homeless in your community. Offer them both physical food and spiritual food, sharing with them the love of Jesus!