Romans 3:1-26
Thursday, 9 December 2021
“For all have sinned and fall short of the glory of God.” -Romans 3:23
In the book of Romans, Apostle Paul presents the authenticity of the gospel like an experienced and skilful lawyer before the church in Rome and eventually to the whole world. He systematically presents the truth of the gospel and announces his allegiance to it which is evident in his statement: “I am not ashamed of the gospel, because it is the power of God for the salvation of every one who believes.” (Romans 1:16)
All through history we see various religious groups considering many of their leaders as holy ones; some have even gone to the extent of believing that they are a reincarnation of God. People run after these personalities to achieve salvation. But the Bible is very clear that all have sinned and are separated from God. Unless sin is dealt with in a person’s life, there can be no relationship with a holy God. That is what Christ Jesus achieved for the entire humankind on the cross- He paid the penalty of sin through His death! We read in Acts 4:12: “Salvation is found in no one else, for there is no other name under heaven given to men by which we must be saved.” -the name JESUS.
A greater section in the society still differentiates between various sins. Some sins are considered to be bigger as the consequence will be more serious. As an example- murder is considered to be worse than lying or hatred; adultery seems to be worse than lust. But the apostle here emphasizes that all sins whether big or small will lead us to inheriting the title “SINNERS.” All sins make us sinners and it cuts us off from the holy God. Once we are separated from God, we play into the hands of Satan, living in sin and the natural outcome is eternal death.
Any one who comes to Christ must believe that God is willing to forgive the “little” sins as well as the “big’ sins. In Romans 6:23 we read that the wages of sin is death! We all have the freedom to choose our own path. But we never have the liberty to avoid the consequence of our choice. The consequence of sin is eternal death (in hell) but for living in a godly way, Jesus promises eternal life (in heaven). The choice is yours!
God in His mercy and love has prepared a way to avoid eternal wrath. Romans 5:8 says “God demonstrated his own love for us in this: while we were still sinners, Christ died for us.” This way was opened not because we were good enough to merit it but only on account of God’s love. Remember – He loved you so much -even before you turned to Him – even when you were still rebelling against His call.
To deal with your sin and to ensure your position in God’s eternal kingdom, God’s Word in Romans 10:9 says ‘that if you confess with your mouth, “Jesus is Lord” and believe in your heart that God raised him from the dead you will be saved.’ Salvation comes only through Jesus Christ. This is not a difficult or complicated process but simple and offered freely to you!
As you read this today, will you by faith accept Christ Jesus and be saved to inherit eternal life in His glorious kingdom? Jesus loves sinners but hates sin. He still calls you into His love today.
The Choice is yours – Choose life!
Prayer: LORD Jesus, I admit I am a sinner and believe You died for my sin. I receive the wonderful exchange of eternal life through You and acceptance in God. Amen.
Listen: ‘Are you washed in the blood’