or prepare himself thereunto."[201] Forgiveness of sin must come from
God. There is nothing in nature or in human experience to warrant hope
of pardon. Nature never forgives a trespass against her law. The
opportunity that is lost does not return. The mistake by which a life is
marred cannot be undone. The constitution shattered by intemperance
cannot be restored, the birthright bartered for a mess of pottage is
gone for ever, and no bitter tears or supplications have power to bring
it back. Whether we repent of it or not, every sin we commit leaves its
dark mark behind, and in this life at least the stain can never be
effaced; and yet we believe in the forgiveness of sin through the grace
of God.

The forgiveness of sin is a free gift purchased by "the Lamb of God that
taketh away the sin of the world," who by His Cross and Passion obtained
for men this unspeakable benefit, and commanded that repentance and
remission of sins should be preached in His name among all nations.[202]

In order that the grace of God may bring salvation, it is required that
there shall be (_a_) Repentance. In Scripture repentance is set forth as
necessarily preceding pardon: "Jesus began to preach, and to say,
Repent."[203] "Peter said unto them, Repent."[204] "Him hath God exalted
with his right hand to be a Prince and a Saviour, for to give repentance
to Israel, and forgiveness of sins."[205] Repentance begins in
contrition. "Godly sorrow for sin worketh repentance to salvation."[206]
(_b_) Before the good gift of God can be received, it is necessary that
we confess our sin. It is when we confess our sins that we obtain
forgiveness and cleansing. "If we confess our sins, he is faithful and
just to forgive us our sins, and to cleanse us from all
unrighteousness."[207] To produce conviction and confession is the work
of the Holy Ghost. He reveals to the sinner the sinfulness of his life,