What to Do When You Sin Again

Scripture Focus: 1 John 2:1–2; Romans 8:1–4; Hebrews 7:23–25

When you mess up, is your first instinct to run toward God or away from Him? Why?

Teaching:
John shares one of the most reassuring truths in Scripture: “If anyone sins, we have an Advocate with the Father - Jesus Christ, the Righteous One.”

He paints a picture of a courtroom scene. The charges against us are real, the evidence is overwhelming, and the sentence is just. Left to our own devices, the verdict would be condemnation. But we are not alone. Our Advocate – Jesus - stands beside us. He does not argue that we are innocent; He declares that our debt has already been paid in full by His sacrifice on the cross.

John uses the word “propitiation” to describe this. It means Jesus’ death satisfied God’s justice and removed His righteous wrath toward sin. The penalty for our sin has been borne by Him. Because of this, the case is closed - there is no double jeopardy in God’s court.

But this truth isn’t meant to make us careless. The more we understand the cost of our forgiveness, the more we will despise the sin that demanded such a price. Real grace never makes us comfortable with sin - it makes us eager to pursue holiness.

Discussion Questions:

1. John calls Jesus our Advocate (1 John 2:1). What does this courtroom image teach us about His role on our behalf?

2. How does the concept of “propitiation” (atoning sacrifice) enhance your understanding of what Jesus achieved on the cross?

3. Why do you think people sometimes view God’s grace as an excuse to sin? How does John warn against this?

4. Romans 8:1 states, “There is now no condemnation for those who are in Christ Jesus.” What distinguishes conviction from condemnation?

5. How can confessing your sins quickly restore your fellowship with God?

Application:
When you sin, don’t hide from God. Confess quickly, knowing your Advocate is already pleading your case. Let His mercy lead you to repentance, not despair.

Reflection:
Do you believe God is still on your side during moments of failure? How might that alter the way you respond when you fall?

Identify an area where guilt or shame has kept you away from God. Pray this week, thanking Jesus as your Advocate, and take a step closer to Him.