Question:

40.3—I’ve heard the thought brought out that when we become Christians we no longer have to ask for FORGIVENESS for our sins because they have already been judged at Calvary.  The word “advocate” was tied to this thought noting that our Lord is continuously bringing us back into good fellowship with the Father. I know we are to confess our sins to God. Are we on wrong grounds by asking God for forgiveness when we sin?

Answer:

40.3—In this day of grace it is good to be concerned about our state before our Heavenly Father as regards sins in our daily walk, and the need of cleansing from their defiling effect. Granted, positionally we have been totally forgiven and cleansed, but to maintain a walk of nearness to the Lord, self judgment and confession need to be carried out. “Let a man examine himself” (1 Corinthians 11:28). “If we confess our sins…” (1 John 1:9).

Though this is a necessary practice to assure happy communion with the Father and the Son, let us be careful not to make it a legal ritual with pat expressions to be recited. David gives a starting example in the words, “For I will declare my iniquity; I will be sorry for my sin” (Psalm 38:18).  The Lord’s account of the prodigal son’s return to his father and his confession of, “Father, I have sinned” (Luke 15:21), certainly could be used as an example for us.

As the Lord deepens our perception of what His response to our confession will be, so will our words of confession more appropriately reflect this truth.