Introduction

• Acts 2:36-41

Let’s talk about “going forward.”

Traditions must fit within truth, not truth within traditions

• James 5:16
• There’s nothing specified about when one must confess.
• The “altar call” tradition seems to have started in the 1830s.
• We are not bound by any tradition outside the Bible.

Church announcements don’t replace obedience or God

• Acts 8:22 – Confession is needed, but it doesn’t replace anything that needs to happen between you and God.
• “Going forward” is not the same as repentance or forgiveness.

Some sins/repentance require public attention; others do not

• I Timothy 5:20
• Matthew 5:23
• Matthew 18:15-17 – Some sins can be handled in private.

Get my attitude right

• James 5:19-20 – Christians should be the first responders coming to help someone in need.
• Luke 15:1-32 – Rejoice with those who repent!
• Matthew 18:21-22 – Be ready and willing to forgive.
• II Corinthians 7:9-10

Galatians 6!

• Galatians 6:1-2 – Help those who need it!
• Galatians 6:3-5 – Get to work and help!
• Galatians 6:6 – The helper and the help-ee share the things of Christ.
• Galatians 6:7-10 – Help anyone caught in sin, but especially brothers in Christ.
• Galatians 5:22-24
• These things take time, effort, and love!