Discussion Jumpstarter
Study leader reference - not a definitive answer
Question 9
Darla describes confession not only to God but to believers—especially her husband and even her children (“I am sorry. I am wrong. Will you forgive me?”)—and says “there is no facade in grace”; what would have to die in us to live that openly, and what risks (real or perceived) keep Christian families from practicing this?
Another way to ask: What would we have to give up inside ourselves to confess sins openly to other believers and family, and what fears keep many Christian families from doing it?
Discussion Jumpstarter
Direct Answer
Darla implies that pride, self-protection, and the need to look strong must die for open confession to become normal; families often avoid it because they fear looking weak, losing authority, or exposing painful realities.
- She learned that “confession to believers is also incredibly important,” and one key person was her husband because “he’s the one I sinned against the most.”
- She says she had absorbed a belief: parents shouldn’t “make yourself vulnerable… that would make you weak,” but the Spirit showed her she must repent to her children.
- Her model confession is explicit: “I am sorry. I am wrong. Will you please forgive me?”
- She emphasizes the fruit: it models grace and teaches children “how to extend grace,” keeping a home marked by “no secrets… no facade.”
- She frames it as humility and responsibility: “take responsibility for where you’re at and repent,” even if the other person is also wrong.