In Christ

“For you did not receive a spirit that makes you a slave again to fear, but you received the Spirit of sonship. And by him we cry, “Abba, Father.” The Spirit himself testifies with our spirit that we are God's children. Now if we are children, then we are heirs-- heirs of God and co-heirs with Christ, if indeed we share in his sufferings in order that we may also share in his glory.” Romans 8:15-17 (NIV)

The great danger of 21st century Christianity is to view our faith from the world's perspective. A worldly view is a "tolerance" view, a "faith-based" view. Religion is viewed from the perspective of whether it is useful or harmful, whether it can do something for society or not. And unfortunately this perspective has invaded our churches.

When Christianity is reduced to merely a religious opinion or a benefit to society or a tool to advance governmental programs and agenda, then Christianity has lost its transforming power. Christians must never forget that our non-Christian world does not believe in the God who reveals sin. The non-Christian world does not believe in the God who provides a remedy for sin in the Crucified and Resurrected Christ.

Think about this: a fallen, guilty, sin-laden individual sits under the condemnation of God's judgment and eternal wrath, but God loves the condemned one so much that he sacrifices himself on a Cross to rescue the condemned. And in our God and Savior Jesus Christ there is no condemnation!

The condemned isn't liberated by social benefits. Condemnation is isn't defeated by religious ideas or opinions. Despite a "faith-based" association, government agendas or programs cannot deliver us from condemnation. Condemnation is only defeated by the blood of the Crucified Savior and Resurrected Lord, Jesus Christ.

Faith in God's work on Calvary in Jesus Christ is the only remedy for sin and condemnation. In return for our faith (i.e., belief and repentance), we are delivered from fear and receive "sonship" in God's house. Think about that for a moment. God sacrificed his only child that we might become his children and heirs of his eternal kingdom.

We who place our faith Jesus Christ are not scared of God. We approach him intimately and boldly as children who are approaching their father. Think about it: in Christ, condemnation is defeated. In Christ, God welcomes you. In Christ, you are a child and not a slave. Christ’s righteousness covers you. And you come to him as boldly as a little child comes to a father! Why would you reject that?

Dear Father, thank you for your work on Calvary. Empower every reader to place faith in Christ as Savior and Lord. This I pray in the name of Jesus. AMEN

Be strong and courageous today in Christ,