Confession and Forgiveness

Luke 18: 9:14

> Jesus often used Samaritans to make righteous points.

> Jews and Samaritans were bitter against each other, because Samaritans were considered by the Jews as half-breeds.

2 Kings 17: 24-33

> Samaria was the capital - explain - look at vs.33 - how do we do the same thing? How do we serve other gods?

Luke 18: 9-14

> Notice the "publican" and the Pharisee - and the contrast between them.

> Jesus here chooses the publican not the self righteous religious leader to show the proper way to offer an acceptable prayer.

> He was not a church go-er, but God was still working on him.

> Soon as he comes to make amends with God - Pharisee judges him - do we do the same?

> He wasn't speaking loudly - like the Pharisee - quality not volume.

> He wasn't trying to be seen - hands raised high - eyes lifted.

> NOTICE: He didn't go to a priest even though one was present.

Galatians 6:2

> Be careful how much in detail you provide fellow brothers.

James 5:16

> Not needed to give details - just ask for prayer - God will take care of the details.

> God will have mercy on the sincere heart of repentance - look at David, woman caught in adultery, Paul, ect...

> Why did the publican smite his breasts? He knew where the problem really was. In his heart!

1 John 1: 9

> Forgiveness is attainable - He received it instantly - soon as it was confessed.

> Do you have anything that needs to be confessed? Now is the time.

> Maybe you have been judgmental and want to make that right.