What other scriptures emphasize forgiveness through Jesus' name? The starting promise: 1 John 2:12 “I am writing to you, little children, because your sins have been forgiven for His name’s sake.” John anchors forgiveness to one thing only—the name (person and authority) of Jesus. Echoes in the Gospels • Luke 24:46-47 — “...and in His name repentance and forgiveness of sins will be proclaimed to all nations, beginning in Jerusalem.” • Matthew 26:28 — “This is My blood of the covenant, which is poured out for many for the forgiveness of sins.” The risen Christ Himself ties forgiveness to who He is and what He has done. Early-church proclamation in Acts • Acts 2:38 — Peter: “Repent and be baptized, every one of you, in the name of Jesus Christ for the forgiveness of your sins…” • Acts 4:12 — “Salvation exists in no one else, for there is no other name under heaven given to men by which we must be saved.” • Acts 10:43 — “All the prophets testify about Him that everyone who believes in Him receives forgiveness of sins through His name.” The apostles preached one consistent theme: call on His name and sins are wiped away. Paul’s letters reinforce the same truth • Ephesians 1:7 — “In Him we have redemption through His blood, the forgiveness of our trespasses, according to the riches of His grace.” • Colossians 1:13-14 — “...in whom we have redemption, the forgiveness of sins.” • 1 Corinthians 6:11 — “...you were justified in the name of the Lord Jesus Christ and by the Spirit of our God.” Forgiveness, redemption, justification—all wrapped up in Jesus’ name and finished work. John’s ongoing emphasis • 1 John 1:7 — “…the blood of Jesus His Son cleanses us from all sin.” • 1 John 1:9 — “If we confess our sins, He is faithful and just to forgive us our sins and to cleanse us from all unrighteousness.” The same writer who penned 1 John 2:12 keeps circling back: cleansing is certain because of Jesus. Why the name matters • His name embodies His authority (Philippians 2:9-11). • His name signifies His person—God who saves (Matthew 1:21). • Calling on His name expresses trust in His completed sacrifice (Romans 10:13). Living in the freedom of forgiven people • Rest in the finality of His work—no need to earn what is already granted. • Confess quickly; the One who bought forgiveness stands ready to apply it. • Extend to others the mercy you have received; forgiveness propagates forgiveness (Ephesians 4:32). |
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