What does the Bible say about confession of sin?

Bible Topic · WEB

The Bible teaches that sinners should humbly confess their sins to God, trusting his mercy and forgiveness through Jesus Christ. First John 1:9 promises that God is faithful and just to forgive and cleanse those who confess, while Proverbs 28:13 contrasts concealment with mercy for those who confess and forsake sin. Psalm 32:5 and Psalm 51:1-5 model honest repentance before God, without excuse or self-justification. James 5:16 also commends appropriate confession to one another for prayer and healing. Confession does not earn pardon, but expresses true repentance and faith in Christ, whose saving lordship is confessed in Romans 10:9.