If we confess our sins, he is faithful and just to forgive us our sins and to cleanse us from all unrighteousness.
1 John 1:9
Notice anything interesting in the verse above? It doesn’t say He is faithful and merciful, it says He is faithful and just. How can a just God forgive us of our sins? If you say “mercy”, you are mistaken! A just judge cannot pardon the guilty in mercy, or He wouldn’t be a just judge! The simple fact is that through love and mercy, the Father sent the Son to pay the penalty for our crimes. As stated above, forgiveness is an act of justice, not mercy. However, the sending of the Son, and the Son’s willing sacrifice were done out of mercy. It was then possible for the just judge to pardon us. It was love and mercy that brought us the atonement offered in Christ, but then when forgiveness was granted…it was a matter of justice. That is why this passage mentions justice and not mercy. Think about it!!
ChurchSalt 
January 30, 2011 at 7:40 am
Good exegesis! Usually, when I read that passage, I tend to think more of John’s words as being akin to Marks: “He who believes and is baptized will be saved…”. I look at both phrases as promises, to let us know that our confession or our belief adn obedience will definitely be rewarded – not *may* be, but *will* be.
January 29, 2011 at 12:18 pm
I think this was explained very well. Much appreciation
January 29, 2011 at 1:47 pm
Thank you for the kind words and for stopping by!
– joe