FORGIVEN!
FORGIVEN!
“Therefore, my friends, I want you to know that through Jesus the forgiveness of sins is proclaimed to you. Through him everyone who believes is set free from every sin, a justification you were not able to obtain under the law of Moses. Take care that what the prophets have said does not happen to you: “ ‘Look, you scoffers, wonder and perish, for I am going to do something in your days that you would never believe, even if someone told you.’” —Acts 13:38-41
“Justified, acquitted and declared not guilty! Treated as if we were righteous and as if we had not offended and are free from the guilt of all offences.” Barnes notes on the Bible. The marvel of what Jesus has done for us in declaring us who are not righteous to be righteous is hard for many to believe. This is scoffed at as “easy believism.” They think “there must be some work you have to do” to be acceptable to God. All unbiblical systems are “work for your salvation” systems to one degree or another. The thought is “what I do for good works helps me attain salvation.” This could not be further from the Truth of God’s Word. But the gift of salvation is not a gift if I have to work for it. No, rather than being a gift it is a payment, “No one can redeem the life of another or give to God a ransom for them—the ransom for a life is costly, no payment is ever enough— (Psalm 49:7-8). Redemption only comes through the blood of Christ (I Peter 1:18-19).
Do you understand better the greatness of Jesus finished work at the cross (II Corinthians 5:21)? Have you come to see the great freedom you have in our Lord Jesus? Freedom from the penalty of sin is ours. Jesus took the penalty. We are free to serve Him! Now, out of gratitude let us live faithfully for our King. But when we sin let us confess it, turn from it and “let us run with perseverance the race marked out for us, fixing our eyes on Jesus, the pioneer and perfecter of faith. (Hebrews 12 1-2). http://biblehub.com/niv/hebrews/12.htm Keep going!
Dear Father, truly, may I live a life of freedom and gratitude in the power of Your Holy Spirit and in the authority of Jesus my King. So be it!