”If we claim to be without sin, we deceive ourselves and the truth is not in us.
1 John 1:8New International Version (NIV)
1 John 1:8 Devotional
The Heart of Deception
1 John 1:8 reveals that there are some Christians during John’s time who claimed to be sinless. They, therefore, claimed to be without sin.
Additionally, in 1 John 1:6, John wrote: “If we claim to have fellowship with him and yet walk in the darkness, we lie and do not live out the truth”. Because the Christians claimed to be in fellowship with God but their conduct was not in line with Christianity.
Therefore, and unfortunately, their claim was erroneous. It was most likely based on false teaching.
Consequently, John stated that such a claim was the Heart of Deception. It is a serious form of self-deception, especially for a believer.
Remember, Paul, asserts that “all have sinned and fall short of the glory of God” (Romans 3:23). Therefore, all of us are sinners (Romans 7-8). And to claim to be without sin is serious deception – Deception arises when you claim to be without sin (righteous). It is to think more highly of ourselves than we ought (Galatians 6:3).
However, we who are Christians must not think this way. We must walk in the light so that Jesus Christ’s blood can purify us from all sin (1 John 1:7).
Therefore, the advantage of being a believer is that you have the forgiveness of Christ. This is why confession is a very important part of your walk of faith. Denial of the existence of sin numbs our ability to repent of sin.
Prayer/Blessing
Lord, I admit that I am a sinner. Please forgive me of my sins.
I thank You for availing the forgiveness of my sins in Jesus Christ. I receive Your forgiveness right now in Jesus’ Name, Amen.
May you be able to live in truth. Amen.
Daily Bible Reading
Deuteronomy 32-34 (see How to Read the Bible in One Year or How to Read the Bible (for Beginners))
