As we continue past the first chapter of the book of 1 John, we find several instances where John made references to things he mentioned from that opening chapter which was written to unbelieving people. He reminds the believers in chapters 2 and 4 about a confession of the son (Jesus) and to avoid those in error who do not confess Jesus Christ has come in the flesh. In the first chapter of 1 John (including verse 9), John summarized what he was talking about with these statements: “By this you know the Spirit of God: every spirit that confesses that Jesus Christ has come in the flesh is from God; and every spirit that does not confess Jesus is not from God. Whoever confesses that Jesus is the Son of God, God abides in him, and he in God” (1 John 4:2-3; 15 NASB). Also see 1 John 2:23.

In the tenth chapter of Romans, the Apostle Paul also spoke of this confession of the Lord Jesus Christ, resulting in salvation and righteousness… or as John said, cleansed from all unrighteousness. This is when we experience new life and receive the forgiveness that God has offered back at the cross of Christ. Clearly, the target audience in the first chapter of 1 John was aimed at unbelieving people who denied they have sinned… they needed to realize they had fallen short, confess it and be transferred into the light of Christ. The “verse” of 1 John 1:9 is not an admonition for believers in Christ to admit to God they have committed yet another sin while seeking a new forgiveness. After all, forgiveness is not offered without the shedding of blood, and Jesus offer Himself once, for all.

We have a better confession inside of a new and better covenant where Jesus is our guarantee: “Let us hold fast the confession of our hope without wavering, for He who promised is faithful” (Hebrews 10:23 NASB).



   
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