The connecting word **If** introduces a hypothetical conditional relationship. If you are a friend of God, then you want to obey Jesus. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/grammar-connect-condition-hypothetical]])
The connecting word **But** introduces a contrast relationship. You would expect that, when Satan tempts you to sin and you do sin, you would become the enemy of God again. Instead, God keeps his promise. He forgives the sin that you do and gives you the strength to stop sinning. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/grammar-connect-logic-contrast]])
The connecting word **if** introduces a hypothetical conditional relationship. If you confess your sins, then God will forgive you. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/grammar-connect-condition-hypothetical]])