Expert: Onaga Thomas - 11/16/2008

Question
Hi Norman, I am a member of the church of Christ. I stumbled at this topic, especially so that it's been happening to me, I confess. How do I reconcile Hebrews 10:26 and 1John 1:1-9 when we sin. I am still IN Christ when I sin "willfully"? I know the bible teaches that nothing can snatch us away from Him (Jn 10:28) and the blood of Jesus Christ cleanseth us from all our sins PROVIDED we walk in the light (1Jn1:7-9). Yet I still feel guilty of my doing as it seemed I am crucifying Him anew! Please help me on this, brother. Thank you. (Thanks again for your answer regarding "solo worship".)

Answer
Thankyou for your question Norman

 Yes you are still in Christ when you sin willfully, as 1 John 1:9 points out his blood cleanses us from ALL sin...willfully or not.  The major point concerning Christians and sin are is that our sins are not reckons to us, we are cleansed, provided that we have repented.  When it comes to feelings of guilt about sin, we as Christians need to have the ability to repent of our sins and move on from them...I mean repent feeling all forgiveness of God, knowing that our sins were removed, and that God is not keeping an account of our sins against us.  Those are problems that people outside of Christ still have to deal with.  Paul told us there is no condemnation (jugdement, penalty, awaiting wrath of God)to those who are IN Christ Jesus (Romans 8:1).  So if we sin, and we all as Christians do, our relationship with our Father is such that when we are forgiven, it is a time to have joy and peace, not worry or doubt.  Friend, there is no need to feel any quilt after sins we you can repent, turn from your error and make a greater purpose to pursue spiritual maturity in Christ.  Have a blessed day

Onaga Thomas