FORGIVENESS OF SIN: THE HEART OF GOD'S LOVE

Naim Choi, Intercultural Site Pastor

This is the seventh week of our sermon series on The Apostles’ Creed. This season at RockPointe calls us to look deeper into our faith and reflect on where we stand in terms of the foundational beliefs of a believer. Each phrase in the Creed begins with “I believe,” a statement that can either disturb our hearts or bring us deep joy, depending on how well we understand and live by it.

This week’s topic is the forgiveness of sin. Let me ask you: what comes to your mind when you hear these words? Is it something distant, something that seems to belong only in church language? Or do you recognize it as a vital truth that speaks directly to your own heart and daily life?

Sin is not just a list of bad choices; it’s a condition of the human heart. It’s a deep-rooted tendency to live independently from God, to rely on ourselves rather than our Creator. As Augustine of Hippo said, “Sin is believing the lie that you are self-created, self-dependent, and self-sustained.”

The Bible clearly states that, “all have sinned and fall short of the glory of God” (Romans 3:23, NIV). This brokenness separates us from God and leaves us in desperate need of His grace. Still, the Christian faith offers a deep hope: the forgiveness of sins through Jesus Christ. The apostle John, in his first epistle, shares a clear and comforting message about God’s forgiveness.

John starts with a sober reminder: “If we claim to be without sin, we deceive ourselves and the truth is not in us” (1 John 1:8, NIV). Denying sin only deepens our separation from God. True forgiveness begins with honesty, admitting our sins, and recognizing our need for mercy.

But how do we do that in a world that constantly promises more than what the unseen God offers? Our culture urges us to justify our actions, follow our hearts, and avoid guilt, but the gospel calls us to confession, repentance, and restoration.

Even though we fall short, God’s faithful promise remains unshakeable. As Martin Luther said, “The recognition of sin is the beginning of salvation.” God does not leave us trapped in guilt or shame. John assures us: “If we confess our sins, he is faithful and just and will forgive us our sins and purify us from all unrighteousness” (1 John 1:9, NIV).

Forgiveness does not depend on our worthiness, but on God’s faithfulness and justice fulfilled in Christ. Confession is more than just a ritual; it is a sincere turning to God, trusting that He will fully cleanse us and restore our relationship with Him.

John emphasizes that forgiveness is only made possible through Jesus Christ: “He is the atoning sacrifice for our sins, and not only for ours but also for the sins of the whole world” (1 John 2:2, NIV). Jesus’ death on the cross paid the penalty for sin once and for all, bridging the gap between humanity and God. Through Him, every believer has access to mercy, restoration, and a renewed relationship with the Father.

Forgiveness is not just a moment from the past; it is a present reality that influences our daily lives. Knowing we are forgiven frees us from guilt, shame, and fear, allowing us to live in peace and obedience. Additionally, experiencing God’s forgiveness calls us to extend the same grace to others. Jesus taught that forgiving others is inseparable from receiving forgiveness ourselves (Matthew 6:14-15).

The forgiveness of sin transforms hearts, families, and communities. It restores broken relationships, heals emotional wounds, and empowers believers to walk in righteousness. John’s message reminds us that no sin is too great, and no person is beyond God’s reach. Forgiveness is both a gift to receive and a lifestyle to embrace, reflecting the love of Christ to a world desperate for hope. My prayer is that every RockPointer would experience this same transformative forgiveness.

The forgiveness of sin is the foundation of the Christian faith. “… For I will forgive their wickedness and will remember their sins no more” (Jeremiah 31:34b, NIV). It begins with acknowledging our sins, trusting in God’s promise, and accepting the atoning sacrifice of Jesus Christ. This forgiveness is not only personal; it calls us to show God’s mercy in our relationships and communities.

At RockPointe, we strive to be people shaped by this forgiveness, grateful for grace, quick to confess our sins, and eager to forgive others. We desire our lives to mirror the redeeming love of Christ that has set us free.

“As far as the east is from the west, so far has he removed our transgressions from us.” (Psalm 103:12, NIV)

May our church shine as a beacon of God’s forgiveness and hope, spreading light to Calgary, and sharing His love worldwide.