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1SeekingChrist
Guest
Hello,
I am a Christian Protestant who was born and raised as such. I love the Lord Jesus Christ for all He has done and I am truly seeking to find him. Previously, I was very opposed to the Catholic Church on principle but due to some close friendships with a few devout Catholics, my opinions on the church has changed considerably. I am finding that many of my beliefs are already in line with Catholic doctrine and the oneness that the Catholic Church maintains across the earth impresses me greatly. In light of these things, I am researching Catholic teachings and have begun considering conversion. I have questions (many of which I have found answers to here) but one that has not been sufficiently answered for me is this: Why is it necessary to go to confession? In my previous practice, upbringing, and teaching it is necessary to confess our sins (1 John 1:9) but confessing to God privately is enough. Can God not hear our prayers and our repentance? Can He not cleanse us from our sins through the shedding of His blood which was already done on the cross? Why is it necessary to confess our sins to a priest as an intermediary before God? Is not Christ our “Advocate with the Father” (1 John 2:1) and our high priest (Heb. 4:14, 6:20, 8:1, 9:11)?
I am truly seeking and wish to know. Thank you very much for your time and consideration.
I am a Christian Protestant who was born and raised as such. I love the Lord Jesus Christ for all He has done and I am truly seeking to find him. Previously, I was very opposed to the Catholic Church on principle but due to some close friendships with a few devout Catholics, my opinions on the church has changed considerably. I am finding that many of my beliefs are already in line with Catholic doctrine and the oneness that the Catholic Church maintains across the earth impresses me greatly. In light of these things, I am researching Catholic teachings and have begun considering conversion. I have questions (many of which I have found answers to here) but one that has not been sufficiently answered for me is this: Why is it necessary to go to confession? In my previous practice, upbringing, and teaching it is necessary to confess our sins (1 John 1:9) but confessing to God privately is enough. Can God not hear our prayers and our repentance? Can He not cleanse us from our sins through the shedding of His blood which was already done on the cross? Why is it necessary to confess our sins to a priest as an intermediary before God? Is not Christ our “Advocate with the Father” (1 John 2:1) and our high priest (Heb. 4:14, 6:20, 8:1, 9:11)?
I am truly seeking and wish to know. Thank you very much for your time and consideration.