1 John 1:9 - Wesley's Explanatory Notes

But if with a penitent and believing heart, we confess our sins, he is faithful — Because he had promised this blessing, by the unanimous voice of all his prophets. Just — Surely then he will punish: no; for this very reason he will pardon. This may seem strange; but upon the evangelical principle of atonement and redemption, it is undoubtedly true; because, when the debt is paid, or the purchase made, it is the part of equity to cancel the bond, and consign over the purchased possession. Both to forgive us our sins — To take away all the guilt of them. And to cleanse us from all unrighteousness — To purify our souls from every kind and every degree of it.