Confession and repentance are subjects that are not discussed often, even in some churches, but this passage in 1 John 1 emphasizes the importance of honesty and the freedom and joy that comes with knowing Jesus. Read this post from The Gospel Coalition, then think through the following questions:
- John emphasizes the truth and clearly presents it in his message. He says that some are still “walking in darkness.” Think about Adam and Eve, and also how we too have sin in our lives. As you are preparing, pray specifically for your students to seek truth and that they would walk in the light.
- Read 1 John 1:9, as well as the surrounding verses. Then think about this quote and share it with your students if you feel it would be beneficial in your discussion of confession.
Cheap grace is the grace we bestow on ourselves. Cheap grace is the preaching of forgiveness without requiring repentance, baptism without church discipline, Communion without confession… Cheap grace is grace without discipleship, grace without the cross, grace without Jesus Christ, living and incarnate.” –Dietrich Bonhoeffer
Continue to pray for your students this week in your preparation time and when you see them encourage them to spend time in fellowship with Him and to walk in the light this week.
I teach (more facilitate) a group of 60 and 70 year old adults…this message never gets old…to hear these words and know that they were heard from Jesus himself…it is true and the more we trust in the life death and resurrection…the more real our Savior teaches us of who He is.
Amen Kim. It’s amazing how God’s Word speaks something fresh to us each time we study it. Blessings on you and your group.