The Expression of Confession

This is how you know the Spirit of God: every spirit who confesses that Jesus Christ has come in the flesh is from God. (1 John 4:2).

The Father's confession of love was expressed by giving us His son Jesus. (See John 3:16). His Word became flesh and dwelt among us. Confession is more than a verbal acknowledgment of something; it must connect, it must have some expression that reveals or manifests what is declared. Just as repentance is the outward expression of one's changed mind and direction, confession is the outward expression of one's declared words.

I used to think  because I can verbally say, "Jesus Christ has come in the flesh" I was a Christian and going to Heaven. Mere words do not a lasting faith make. My claim as a follower of Christ, a Christian is not predicated on what I do on Sunday morning, the bumper sticker on my car, or if I vote Republican. My confession of faith must manifest in a life that reflects its claim. My life must reflect the Son of God just as the moon reflects the sun of the solar system. 

My life must express in action what my mouth declares is true about me, about someone else or of what I believe. "let the words of my mouth and the meditation of my heart, be acceptable in your sight, O, Lord, my strength and my redeemer." (Psalm 19:14)

"Sorry" is  not true confession. It plays a part in the process, but if there is no action to manifest the confession they are but empty words.

Old Cliche's hold true, "the proof is in the pudding", "walk the talk", "integrity is doing the right thing, even if nobody is watching". The watching world is looking for something supernatural, something that is far better and more solid than the shadows and myths it currently follows. Church we need to step up our game! We need to declare boldly the name of Jesus Christ as Lord and Savior of this dark and desperate world. Our lives must reflect His is in clear and mirrored effects. Our confessions of who Jesus is must speak even louder with our lives. St. Francis's "Preach the Gospel at all times and when necessary use words" holds true. 

Our lives are to be a manifestation of our true confession. Our confessed love for God, is best expressed in truly loving others. 

So I leave you with this question: Does your life manifest your words, your confession? If it does, then declare it boldly, and if it is lacking, repent! Make your confession your life expression.