Todd Clippard

Topic(s): God’s mercy, Forgiveness, Baptism

As a Christian, one need not be baptized again to receive forgiveness. You must be willing to repent of your sin, confess it to God, and ask for forgiveness.

Simon the Sorcerer was a Christian (Acts 8:13) who tried to buy the gift of the Holy Spirit (vv 18-19). Peter told him to repent and pray for forgiveness (vv 20-22).

John said if we (Christians) confess our sins, God is faithful and just to forgive our sins and cleanse us from ALL unrighteousness - 1 John 1:9.

When Christians walk in the light, they enjoy fellowship with God and fellow Christians, and Jesus' blood cleanses them from all sin - 1 John 1:7. This means we will sin even though we are doing our best. What is important is to recognize that we do sin and be ready to repent whenever necessary.

Trust in God and His promise to forgive. God is a God of mercy. Solomon said, “LORD God of Israel, there is no God like thee, in heaven above, or on earth beneath, who keepest covenant and mercy with thy servants that walk before thee with all their heart” (1 Kings 8:23).

God can and will forgive any penitent Christian. Therefore, we must also be willing to forgive ourselves. Do not dwell on past sins, else negative attitudes will creep in and the Devil will hold sway over you.