1 John 1:9

KJV

If we confess our sins, he is faithful and just to forgive us [our] sins, and to cleanse us from all unrighteousness.

KJV (with Strong's)

If {G1437} we confess {G3670} our {G2257} sins {G266}, he is {G2076} faithful {G4103} and {G2532} just {G1342} to {G2443} forgive {G863} us {G2254} our sins {G266}, and {G2532} to cleanse {G2511} us {G2248} from {G575} all {G3956} unrighteousness {G93}.

Complete Jewish Bible

If we acknowledge our sins, then, since he is trustworthy and just, he will forgive them and purify us from all wrongdoing.

Berean Standard Bible

If we confess our sins, He is faithful and just to forgive us our sins and to cleanse us from all unrighteousness.

American Standard Version

If we confess our sins, he is faithful and righteous to forgive us our sins, and to cleanse us from all unrighteousness.

Commentary

### SUMMARY
[1 John 1:9](/1_john/1-9 "1 John 1:9 - Confession, Forgiveness, and Cleansing") stands as a foundational promise for believers, articulating God's unwavering commitment to restore fellowship with those who acknowledge their sin. It assures that when we confess our transgressions, God, in His perfect character, acts faithfully and justly to grant complete forgiveness and thorough cleansing from every form of unrighteousness, thereby re-establishing the broken communion.

### CONTEXT
* **Literary Context:** This verse is situated within the opening chapter of 1 John, a letter deeply concerned with the nature of Christian fellowship—both with God and with fellow believers. John has just established the absolute light and purity of God ([1 John 1:5](/1_john/1-5 "1 John 1:5 - God is Light")), contrasting it with any claim to have fellowship with Him while "walking in darkness" ([1 John 1:6](/1_john/1-6 "1 John 1:6 - Walking in Darkness")). He then clarifies that while believers walk in the light, the blood of Jesus continually cleanses them from all sin ([1 John 1:7](/1_john/1-7 "1 John 1:7 - Cleansing by Jesus' Blood")). Crucially, John confronts the dangerous self-deception of claiming to be without sin, stating that such a claim makes one a liar and demonstrates the absence of truth within them ([1 John 1:8](/1_john/1-8 "1 John 1:8 - Deceiving Ourselves if We Claim No Sin")). Thus, [1 John 1:9](/1_john/1-9 "1 John 1:9 - Confession, Forgiveness, and Cleansing") immediately follows this assertion, providing the divine remedy for the inevitable reality of sin in the believer's life, ensuring ongoing fellowship and restoration.

* **Historical & Cultural Context:** John's epistle was written towards the end of the first century, likely addressing early forms of Gnostic thought that were beginning to infiltrate Christian communities. These emerging heresies often promoted a dualistic view, separating the spiritual from the material, leading some to believe that actions of the body (including sin) had no bearing on the spirit. This could manifest in two extremes: asceticism (denying the body) or libertinism (indulging the body without moral restraint). The claim "we have no sin" ([1 John 1:8](/1_john/1-8 "1 John 1:8 - Deceiving Ourselves if We Claim No Sin")) directly challenges such Gnostic tendencies to deny the reality or impact of sin. John emphasizes the tangible reality of sin and the necessity of acknowledging it, countering any philosophical or spiritual system that would diminish the seriousness of human transgression or the need for divine intervention. His audience would have understood the profound implications of "confession" within a covenantal framework, where acknowledging wrongdoing was a prerequisite for restored relationship.

* **Key Themes:** [1 John 1:9](/1_john/1-9 "1 John 1:9 - Confession, Forgiveness, and Cleansing") is central to several key themes woven throughout the book of 1 John. The **reality of sin** in the believer's life is a stark theme, directly addressed in [1 John 1:8](/1_john/1-8 "1 John 1:8 - Deceiving Ourselves if We Claim No Sin") and reinforced by the need for confession. This verse then introduces the theme of **God's character**, specifically His **faithfulness and justice**, as the foundation for forgiveness, not merely His mercy. The concepts of **forgiveness** and **cleansing** are paramount, highlighting not just the removal of guilt but also the purification from the defiling effects of sin, leading to **restored fellowship** with God. This restoration is the ultimate goal of John's letter, as he states in [1 John 1:3](/1_john/1-3 "1 John 1:3 - Fellowship with the Father and Son"), "that you also may have fellowship with us; and truly our fellowship is with the Father and with His Son Jesus Christ." The verse provides the practical means for maintaining that vital communion despite human imperfection.

### EXPOSITION AND ANALYSIS

#### Key Word Analysis
* **Confess (Greek, _homologéō'_):** This word (G3670) is a compound of _homou_ (same) and _logeo_ (to speak), literally meaning "to say the same thing" or "to agree with." In the context of sin, it signifies agreeing with God about the nature and reality of our sin, acknowledging it as He sees it, without excuse or minimization. It implies a full and open admission, aligning our perspective with His divine standard.
* **Faithful (Greek, _pistós'_):** This term (G4103) denotes trustworthiness, reliability, and constancy. When applied to God, it underscores His unswerving adherence to His promises and His unchanging character. God's faithfulness means He can be depended upon to act according to His declared word, particularly His covenant promises regarding sin and salvation.
* **Just (Greek, _díkaios'_):** This word (G1342) refers to that which is equitable, righteous, or in conformity with divine law. God's justice is not merely punitive but also restorative. In the context of forgiveness, His justice is satisfied by the atoning work of Christ. Therefore, when we confess, God is just in applying the forgiveness already secured by Christ's sacrifice, upholding His own righteous standards while demonstrating His mercy.
* **Unrighteousness (Greek, _adikía'_):** This noun (G93) signifies injustice, wrongfulness, or iniquity. It encompasses not just individual sinful acts but also the broader state or quality of being unrighteous, a moral deviation from God's perfect standard. The cleansing promised goes beyond specific acts to address the very nature of our fallenness.

#### Verse Breakdown
* **"If we confess our sins":** This clause presents a condition for receiving God's forgiveness and cleansing. "Confess" implies a genuine, heartfelt acknowledgment of sin, aligning our view with God's. It's not a mere verbal utterance but a humble admission of guilt and responsibility before a holy God. The plural "sins" indicates that all specific transgressions, known or unknown, are included in this invitation to confession.
* **"he is faithful and just":** This phrase reveals the divine character that undergirds the promise. God's response to confession is not arbitrary or based solely on sentiment; it flows from His very nature. He is **faithful** to His covenant promises and to the atoning work of Christ, which provides the basis for forgiveness. He is **just** because the penalty for sin has already been paid by Jesus, making it righteous for God to forgive those who come to Him through Christ.
* **"to forgive us [our] sins":** This is the immediate and primary result of confession. "Forgive" (Greek _aphíēmi_) means to send away, release, or pardon. It signifies the complete removal of guilt and the cancellation of the debt incurred by sin. The repetition of "sins" emphasizes that every individual transgression is covered by this act of divine pardon.
* **"and to cleanse us from all unrighteousness":** This extends the scope of God's work beyond mere forgiveness of past acts. "Cleanse" (Greek _katharízō_) implies a purification, a removal of defilement. "All unrighteousness" indicates that God's work is comprehensive, addressing not only specific sinful deeds but also the pervasive influence and inward corruption of sin, restoring the believer to a state of purity and right standing before Him, enabling renewed fellowship.

#### Literary Devices
[1 John 1:9](/1_john/1-9 "1 John 1:9 - Confession, Forgiveness, and Cleansing") employs several significant literary devices that amplify its message. It begins with a **Conditional Statement** ("If we confess..."), clearly setting forth the human action required for the divine response. This structure emphasizes human responsibility while simultaneously highlighting God's gracious provision. The verse also exhibits strong **Parallelism** in its description of God's character ("faithful and just") and the dual outcomes of His action ("to forgive us our sins, and to cleanse us from all unrighteousness"). This parallel structure reinforces the completeness and certainty of God's work. Furthermore, the concept of "cleansing" functions as a powerful **Metaphor**, drawing on the imagery of purification. Just as physical defilement is washed away, so too is the spiritual defilement of sin removed, restoring the individual to a state of purity and enabling unhindered fellowship with a holy God. This metaphor extends beyond mere legal pardon to encompass a transformative spiritual purification.

### THEOLOGICAL AND THEMATIC CONNECTIONS
This verse is a profound theological statement on the nature of God's grace and the ongoing need for it in the life of a believer. It dismantles any notion of sinless perfection after conversion, while simultaneously offering a clear path to restoration. The emphasis on God's faithfulness and justice in forgiving sin highlights that salvation and ongoing forgiveness are not arbitrary acts of mercy but are rooted in the very character of God, made possible and righteous through the atoning sacrifice of Jesus Christ. It underscores the truth that God remains true to His promises and consistent with His holy nature, even as He extends grace. This passage assures believers that God's desire is for unbroken fellowship, and He has provided the means for that fellowship to be restored whenever it is hindered by sin.

* [Proverbs 28:13](/proverbs/28-13 "Proverbs 28:13 - Confession and Mercy")
* [Psalm 32:5](/psalms/32-5 "Psalm 32:5 - Confession and Forgiveness")
* [Hebrews 10:19-22](/hebrews/10-19-22 "Hebrews 10:19-22 - Confidence to Enter the Holy Place")

### REFLECTION AND APPLICATION
[1 John 1:9](/1_john/1-9 "1 John 1:9 - Confession, Forgiveness, and Cleansing") offers immense comfort and profound challenge to the Christian. It is a lifeline for the soul, assuring us that our inevitable failures do not permanently sever our relationship with God, but rather provide an opportunity for deeper reliance on His grace. This verse calls us to radical honesty before God, stripping away any pretense of self-righteousness or attempts to hide our faults. It liberates us from the burden of guilt and shame, inviting us into a continuous cycle of confession, forgiveness, and cleansing, which fosters intimacy with our Heavenly Father. The promise of being "cleansed from all unrighteousness" extends beyond mere pardon; it speaks to a deep, purifying work of God that restores our spiritual vitality and enables us to walk more fully in the light, reflecting His holiness. This ongoing process of purification is essential for spiritual growth and for maintaining authentic fellowship with God and with one another.

#### Questions for Reflection
* **What does it mean for me, practically, to "confess my sins" to God? Is it merely an admission, or does it involve a change of heart and direction?**
* **How does understanding God as "faithful and just" impact my willingness to confess my sins, especially when I feel shame or fear judgment?**
* **Beyond forgiveness of specific acts, what does it mean to be "cleansed from all unrighteousness" in my daily life? How does this cleansing manifest?**
* **In what ways might I be tempted to deny or minimize my sin, and how does [1 John 1:8](/1_john/1-8 "1 John 1:8 - Deceiving Ourselves if We Claim No Sin") and [1 John 1:9](/1_john/1-9 "1 John 1:9 - Confession, Forgiveness, and Cleansing") challenge that tendency?**

### FAQ

**Does confessing sins mean I can just keep sinning and asking for forgiveness?**

Answer:No, the promise in [1 John 1:9](/1_john/1-9 "1 John 1:9 - Confession, Forgiveness, and Cleansing") is not a license to sin. The context of 1 John emphasizes walking in the light ([1 John 1:7](/1_john/1-7 "1 John 1:7 - Cleansing by Jesus' Blood")) and avoiding sin ([1 John 2:1](/1_john/2-1 "1 John 2:1 - My Little Children, I Write to You So That You May Not Sin")). True confession involves agreeing with God about the sin, which implies a desire to turn away from it (repentance). If one confesses with no intention of change, it indicates a lack of genuine repentance and a misunderstanding of God's holiness and the seriousness of sin. The purpose of confession is restoration to fellowship and purity, not permission for continued rebellion.

**Is this verse only for "big" sins, or does it apply to all sins?**

Answer:The verse states "our sins" (plural) and "all unrighteousness." This indicates that it applies to every kind of sin—whether perceived as "big" or "small," intentional or unintentional. God's standard is absolute holiness, and any deviation from it is sin. Therefore, the promise of forgiveness and cleansing is comprehensive, covering every aspect of our unrighteousness that we confess. The emphasis is on the totality of God's cleansing work, not a selective application based on the perceived severity of the transgression.

**How is God "just" in forgiving sins, especially if He is also "faithful"?**

Answer:God is just in forgiving sins because the full penalty for sin has already been paid by Jesus Christ through His death on the cross ([Romans 3:25-26](/romans/3-25-26 "Romans 3:25-26 - God's Righteousness Through Faith")). When we confess our sins, God applies the righteousness of Christ to us. His faithfulness refers to His adherence to His covenant promises, including the promise of salvation and forgiveness through Christ. Therefore, when we meet the condition of confession, God is both faithful to His word and just in applying the atonement of Christ, demonstrating His righteousness by forgiving those who believe. It's not a compromise of justice but a fulfillment of it through Christ's perfect sacrifice.

### CHRIST-CENTERED FULFILLMENT
[1 John 1:9](/1_john/1-9 "1 John 1:9 - Confession, Forgiveness, and Cleansing") finds its ultimate fulfillment and efficacy in the person and work of Jesus Christ. The very possibility of God being both "faithful and just to forgive us our sins" rests entirely upon the finished work of the cross. It is because Jesus, the sinless [Lamb of God](/john/1-29 "John 1:29 - Jesus, the Lamb of God"), bore the penalty for our sins that God's justice is satisfied, allowing Him to extend forgiveness without compromising His holy character. The "cleansing from all unrighteousness" is accomplished by "the blood of Jesus His Son" ([1 John 1:7](/1_john/1-7 "1 John 1:7 - Cleansing by Jesus' Blood")), which purifies us from all sin and makes us righteous in God's sight ([2 Corinthians 5:21](/2_corinthians/5-21 "2 Corinthians 5:21 - Christ Became Sin for Us")). Christ serves as our [Advocate with the Father](/1_john/2-1 "1 John 2:1 - Christ Our Advocate"), interceding on our behalf when we sin, ensuring that the pathway to forgiveness remains open. Thus, [1 John 1:9](/1_john/1-9 "1 John 1:9 - Confession, Forgiveness, and Cleansing") is not a standalone promise but a direct consequence of Christ's atoning sacrifice, demonstrating the depth of God's love and the perfection of His redemptive plan centered in His Son.

Note: Commentary is generated by AI with a directive for Biblical fidelity. Always rely on the Holy Spirit for discernment. The Scripture text and cross-references are from verified, non-AI sources.

Cross-References

Psalms 32:5

I acknowledged my sin unto thee, and mine iniquity have I not hid. I said, I will confess my transgressions unto the LORD; and thou forgavest the iniquity of my sin. Selah.

Proverbs 28:13

¶ He that covereth his sins shall not prosper: but whoso confesseth and forsaketh [them] shall have mercy.

Jeremiah 33:8

And I will cleanse them from all their iniquity, whereby they have sinned against me; and I will pardon all their iniquities, whereby they have sinned, and whereby they have transgressed against me.

Psalms 51:2

Wash me throughly from mine iniquity, and cleanse me from my sin.

Psalms 51:5

Behold, I was shapen in iniquity; and in sin did my mother conceive me.

1 John 1:7

But if we walk in the light, as he is in the light, we have fellowship one with another, and the blood of Jesus Christ his Son cleanseth us from all sin.

Ezekiel 36:25

¶ Then will I sprinkle clean water upon you, and ye shall be clean: from all your filthiness, and from all your idols, will I cleanse you.