In whom we have redemption through his blood, the forgiveness of sins, ...(Ephesians 1:7). Why does he place forgiveness of sins at this point in discussing redemption? Because forgiveness is the first and vital step in the entire process which ends in glorification. Guilt over sin is the first issue that must be dealt with. Many today want to be free from the power of sin and enjoy ‘happiness’, but they do not want to deal with the guilt of sin. Psychologists tell us that we have ‘guilt feelings’ or ‘guilt complexes’ and that we need help to overcome those negative feelings. People don’t want to deal with their need for forgiveness because they don’t want to admit that they are guilty and need forgiveness. That is why the cross and the blood are stumbling blocks to so many. They want a heavenly helper, a friend, a burden-bearer, and a Jesus who will make them happy. He is all those things, but first He is the Crucified Savior who takes away sin. If you want a happy marriage, a healthy psyche, a peaceful heart, and a joyful spirit, you must first deal with the issue of sin and guilt. We cannot have God’s blessings until we are rightly related to Him. This means that we must have forgiveness of sin first. If, when we were enemies, we were reconciled to God by the death of his Son, much more, being reconciled, we shall be saved by his life. (Romans 5:10). Notice we are reconciled by His death first. Then we are saved from the power of sin by His life. Many today present the Gospel only in terms of how Jesus can help us be happy and fulfilled. We must begin with the fact of sin and the wrath of God against it. As doomed, guilty sinners we need to be delivered from God’s wrath first. This happens as we come to the cross and see our Redeemer paying the price for our sin. Once the forgiveness of sin is settled, we may move on into the riches of our redemption. Prayer: Father, help us see the seriousness of sin and the greatness of Your sacrifice for it. In Jesus’ Name. Amen.
Posted on: Mon, 01 Dec 2014 11:42:35 +0000
Trending Topics
Recently Viewed Topics
© 2015