Bible Questions and Answers

Here is what George Booker has to say about "proclaimed upon the housetops" in verse 3:  "Epi" = "upon" (as KJV), not necessarily "from". Quiet discussion with friends and neighbors in evening gatherings on the cool rooftops. Perhaps discussions in sad reflection on the unhappy fate of the faithless and disobedient.

I think that a recounting of sins for all to hear will apply only to those who will be rejected, that is, those who have not sought to have their sin forgiven. Otherwise verses such as as Psalm 103:12; Isaiah 43:25; Jeremiah 31:34; 1 John 1:7 have no meaning.

If we are truly in Christ our sins are covered, purged and forgotten - but only if we are faithful and confess them. There will be no remembrance of them at the Judgement. David even asked for forgiveness of the sins he had committed unawares: Psalm 19:12-14. Such a man as he, guilty though he was of terrible moments of failure, will never be forced to hang is head before his Lord in shame as all of his errors and misdemeanours are recounted in the ears of his fellows.

Like the Father in the parable welcoming home his prodigal son, there will be no chastisement and remonstration over each mistake and error but rather a warmth of welcome and, sins forgiven, undeserved approval that will both astound its recipient and fill him with joy.

For the faithless and disobedient, it will be different. The sentence of death will be pronounced with no amnesty possible as, during a lifetime of unrepentant and unforgiven sin, no reprieve had been sought. The charges will be established and the evidence published in "open court" for all to know. The sins of the unrighteous will not be pardoned nor will they be forgotten and God's just punishment will be amply vindicated.

I hope this helps.

God bless and keep you,
Mike