Since the heart is only known by God, how can we be SURE?

[Rico]

Originally Posted by stmatthew

first, I would blame my inability to post clearly enough instead of blaming you for not comprehending what i am trying to say.

IF forgiveness is available..................this alone states that God has already "in his heart" put the deed aside, so as to offer reconciliation. I personaly do not believe one can even offer forgiveness unless it is already accomplished within their heart.

I have never said that forgiveness is completed prior to our repentance. It is an exchange, but Gods part happened on Calvary. God basically says, "Here is my forgiveness. Now who wants it!"

I don't agree with you. It only means that God is willing to forgive, based upon one's repentance and baptism in His name. Being willing to forgive and already having forgave are two different things. The way you are explaining it puts forgiveness in past tense and I do not believe we are pre-forgiven. I don't find scripture to back that notion. Can you provide any that says such?