Does God Hear Sinners?
A Bible study exploring God's relationship with sinners and the conditions for answered prayer.
1. Sin as an Obstacle to Prayer
1.1 The Barrier of Sin
Verses: Psalm 66:18; Isaiah 59:1-2
- Psalm 66:18 states that if we regard iniquity in our heart, the Lord will not hear us. This highlights the importance of a sincere and repentant heart.
- Isaiah 59:1-2 explains that our sins separate us from God, hindering our prayers from being heard. Sin creates a barrier in our relationship with Him.
1.2 Obedience and Worship
Verses: Proverbs 28:9; John 9:31
- Proverbs 28:9 warns that even the prayer of someone who turns away from the law is an abomination. Obedience is vital for effective prayer.
- John 9:31 acknowledges that God does not hear sinners in the sense of approving their sin, but He does hear those who worship Him and do His will.
2. Repentance and Forgiveness
2.1 The Power of Repentance
Verses: Luke 18:13-14; Psalm 51:17
- Luke 18:13-14 illustrates the story of the tax collector who, though a sinner, prayed with humility and repentance and was justified. God responds to a contrite heart.
- Psalm 51:17 assures us that God will not despise a broken and contrite heart. Sincere repentance opens the door for God's grace.
2.2 Steps to Forgiveness
Verses: Acts 2:38; Acts 3:19
- Acts 2:38 teaches that repentance and baptism in the name of Jesus Christ for the remission of sins are essential steps for receiving the gift of the Holy Spirit.
- Acts 3:19 urges us to repent and be converted, that our sins may be blotted out. Conversion involves a turning away from sin and a turning towards God.
3. God's Mercy and Grace
3.1 Access Through Confession and Grace
Verses: 1 John 1:9; Hebrews 4:16
- 1 John 1:9 promises that if we confess our sins, He is faithful and just to forgive us our sins and to cleanse us from all unrighteousness.
- Hebrews 4:16 encourages us to come boldly to the throne of grace, that we may obtain mercy and find grace to help in time of need. Access to God is available through Jesus Christ.
4. The Role of Jesus Christ
4.1 Jesus as Mediator
Verses: John 14:6; 1 Timothy 2:5
- John 14:6 declares that Jesus is the way, the truth, and the life, and no one comes to the Father except through Him. He is the mediator between God and humanity.
- 1 Timothy 2:5 states that there is one God and one mediator between God and men, the man Christ Jesus. Our prayers are effective through His intercession.
4.2 Christ's Intercession
Verses: Romans 8:34; Hebrews 7:25
- Romans 8:34 reminds us that Christ Jesus is at the right hand of God and is interceding for us. He advocates on our behalf.
- Hebrews 7:25 assures us that He is able to save completely those who come to God through Him, because He always lives to intercede for them.