Why is acknowledging unintentional sin important for maintaining a relationship with God? Recognizing Unseen Offenses Leviticus 5:15: “If anyone acts unfaithfully and sins unintentionally in regard to the LORD’s holy things, he must bring to the LORD a guilt offering, a ram without blemish from the flock, according to your valuation in silver shekels, based on the sanctuary shekel. It is a guilt offering.” • Even unintentional wrongs are called “unfaithful.” • God treats them seriously because they violate His holiness. • A tangible sacrifice was required, showing that ignorance does not erase guilt. Why Hidden Faults Damage Fellowship • Sin—whether deliberate or accidental—creates distance (Isaiah 59:2). • Unrecognized sin dulls spiritual sensitivity (Hebrews 3:13). • Fellowship with God depends on walking in light, not shadows (1 John 1:6-7). Old-Covenant Remedy, New-Covenant Fulfillment • The spotless ram pointed forward to Christ, “the Lamb of God” (John 1:29). • Hebrews 9:14: “how much more will the blood of Christ… cleanse our consciences from dead works to serve the living God?” • The principle stands: guilt must be dealt with by innocent blood. Scripture’s Ongoing Call to Self-Examination • Psalm 19:12: “Who can discern his errors? Forgive my hidden faults.” • 1 Corinthians 11:28: “Each one must examine himself.” • James 4:17: “Whoever knows the right thing to do and fails to do it, for him it is sin.” Practical Ways to Acknowledge Unintentional Sin Today • Invite the Spirit’s light daily—ask Him to reveal anything overlooked (Psalm 139:23-24). • Keep short accounts: confess promptly when conviction comes (1 John 1:9). • Saturate the mind with Scripture so His standards clarify grey areas (Psalm 119:11). • Value restitution when possible; Old-Testament guilt offerings included repayment plus 20 percent (Leviticus 6:5). Restoring wronged parties protects testimony and peace. • Celebrate the Lord’s Supper thoughtfully—an ordained moment for self-inspection (1 Corinthians 11:31-32). The Blessing of Honest Transparency • Confession restores joy (Psalm 32:5). • Cleansed consciences free us to serve wholeheartedly (Hebrews 10:22). • Acknowledging even unintended sins keeps the relational lines clear, ensuring unhindered prayer and vibrant communion with the God who delights in truth “in the inmost being” (Psalm 51:6). |
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