‘Tremble with fear and stop sinning’ (Psalm 4:4). Authentic worship involves ‘diminishing one’s load of narcissism’ (self-worship). Gathered worship is a positive way of dealing with guilt. Self-examination, confession, and the biblical word of ‘assurance’ are a fundamental part of worship.

Some churches, in their over-reaction to the manipulative, guilt-producing preaching of some fundamentalists and pentecostals, have overlooked the seriousness and prevalence of problems of guilt. Every worship service should provide opportunity for a realistic experience of confession and renewing an awareness of God’s acceptance and forgiveness.

‘Your sins are forgiven you’ – it’s the best news sinners can ever hear. How amazing that a holy God can have this sort of grace. The rest of the service moves into acts of celebration for that forgiveness. God and his people are reconciled. Alleluia!

I confess my sins to you, and name them in your holy presence… And Lord I receive your pardon and cleansing from all my sins. Thank you. Amen.

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