The Christocecentric Meal
The Basis For Forgiveness Is Sin
Dr. Abel Damina, a prominent Nigerian pastor and Bible teacher, offers a profound perspective on forgiveness, emphasizing its basis as the redemptive work of Christ rather than human efforts such as confession or penitence. Here are the key points from his teachings on the subject:
1. Forgiveness Is Rooted in Christ’s Sacrifice
Dr. Damina teaches that forgiveness is not dependent on human actions but is entirely based on the sacrificial death of Jesus Christ on the cross.According to him, Jesus’ death was a one-time payment for all sins—past, present, and future.Scriptures like Hebrews 10:10-14 support this, highlighting the sufficiency of Christ’s offering.
2. Confession Is Not a Requirement
Dr. Damina challenges the traditional Christian practice of confessing sins as a prerequisite for forgiveness.He argues that confession, as commonly practiced, is not a New Testament doctrine.Instead, forgiveness is a gift received through faith in Jesus, as explained in Ephesians 1:7: “In Him, we have redemption through His blood, the forgiveness of sins, in accordance with the riches of God’s grace.”
3. The Role of Grace
Forgiveness, according to Dr. Damina, is a manifestation of God’s grace and cannot be earned through works or rituals.The concept of grace underscores that forgiveness is undeserved and freely given.
4. The Finality of Jesus’ Sacrifice
He emphasizes the finality and sufficiency of Jesus’ sacrifice, which “once for all” dealt with sin, as stated in Hebrews 9:12 and Hebrews 10:18.Believers are encouraged to rest in the assurance of their forgiveness rather than repeatedly seeking it.
5. Faith as the Key
Faith in Christ is the sole requirement for receiving forgiveness. This aligns with Romans 5:1, which states, “Therefore, since we have been justified by faith, we have peace with God through our Lord Jesus Christ.”
6. Freedom from Guilt and Condemnation
Dr. Damina teaches that believers should not live under guilt or condemnation for their sins, as Jesus has already paid the price.Romans 8:1 reinforces this: “There is therefore now no condemnation for those who are in Christ Jesus.”
7. Contrasting Old and New Covenants
He highlights the distinction between the Old Covenant, which required repeated sacrifices for sin, and the New Covenant, which is based on Jesus’ once-and-for-all sacrifice.Dr. Damina’s teachings are revolutionary, especially for those accustomed to more traditional doctrines that emphasize confession and penance. His messages focus on the completeness of Christ’s work and the freedom it offers to believers.For a deeper dive, consider exploring his sermons or books, such as “The Unveiling of Jesus”, where he elaborates on these principles.
