Why Should I Confess My Sin and Repent Publicly?
The first and foremost
reason to confess publicly is because my sin is known publicly. Those sins that
are of a private nature, known to myself and God alone, need only be confessed
to God for forgiveness (1 John 1:9). Generally it should not be necessary to
confess these private faults beyond the confines of my closet (Matthew 6:5-12).
However, I may desire to confess a private failing and weakness in order to
obtain the intercession of the church in my behalf or for other assistance. Note
this instruction in James 5:16, “Confess your faults
one to another, and pray one for another, that ye may be healed. The effectual
fervent prayer of a righteous man availeth much.” This same reasoning
would be a second purpose for public confession of a public wrong also.
Sins of a public nature, such as forsaking the assembly, or a
sin that has gained general exposure should be repented of and acknowledged as
widely as they may be known. Many prayers and efforts will be expended in my
behalf when I have erred (Galatians 6:1; James 5:19, 20). Thus thirdly, when I
make an about face, those who have sought to restore me should be informed that
they may utter prayers of thanksgiving and petition for strength and forgiveness
(1 John 5:16, 17).
When I am faithful and walk in the light, I am in fellowship
both with God and the church (1 John 1:7). Sin severs that fellowship if I do
not repent of it. When I confess my sin, God forgives and restores fellowship (1
John 1:7, 9); yet, my brethren may be unaware of my repentance. So a fourth
reason is that they should be informed by my confession that I once again am in
fellowship and desirous to walk and work faithfully with the Lord and His
church.
A fifth and final reason for public confession is that public
sins are also known outside the confines of the church. Often the non-Christian
may reproach the church for wrong they see in me not knowing that the action is
not approved or tolerated or that I may have repented of it. The charge of
“hypocrites in the church” is often made on this very ground. A public
confession helps to avoid this misjudgment and remove reproach from the church.
By labeling my public sins as sin and making public confession, I send a strong
and influential message to the world that sin is wrong and that I desire to be
on the Lord’s side.
May I encourage you to confess your sins publicly this day?
You need to for the sake of yourself, the brethren, the world, and out of
reverence to the Lord and His church. If I or another member may assist you in
making a public confession, please do not hesitate to ask.
By: Joe Spangler