Lord’s Day 21
Q56. What do you believe about the forgiveness of sins?
I believe that God, because of what Christ did, will never hold against me any of my sins or the sinful nature I struggle with all my life. Instead, by his grace, God gives me the righteousness of Christ so I am free from judgment forever.
Scripture Proofs — King James Version
Psalm 103:3–4, 10, 12
Micah 7:18–19
2 Corinthians 5:18–21
1 John 1:7
“But if we walk in the light, as he is in the light, we have fellowship one with another, and the blood of Jesus Christ his Son cleanseth us from all sin.”
1 John 2:2
“And he is the propitiation for our sins: and not for ours only, but also for the sins of the whole world.”
Romans 7:21–25
John 3:17–18
Romans 8:1–2
Parent Guide
Discuss this question together
Discussion Questions
- 1
What does the catechism say God will never hold against you?
- 2
Why does the catechism mention both our sins and our "sinful nature"?
- 3
How does knowing your sins are forgiven change the way you talk to God?
Illustration
Imagine owing a debt so large you could never pay it back, and then receiving a letter that says the entire debt has been canceled. God does not just forgive a few sins here and there. Because of Christ, he cancels the whole record and gives you Christ's righteousness in its place.
Application
When guilt over past sin creeps in, read this catechism answer out loud. Remind yourself that God will never hold your sins against you because of what Christ has done. Then pray with confidence.