|
the forgiveness of sins, |
The key to a relationship with God. “Sin” means everything that stops
us being the sort of person God wants us to be. Jesus died carrying our sins,
and they are forgiven for those who accept that gift of grace. |
The
word “sin” in the original Greek of the New Testament is described in borrowed
terms, there being no satisfactory word in current Greek usage. So it doesn’t
get a clear definition, but a set of “picture images” … two of these are
·
From
archery … failure to hit the exact dead centre of the inner circle of the
target, every single time
·
From
laundry … having even the faintest, smallest trace of a stain on a garment
and so they give the
meaning of sin as “failure to be and do what God wants us to be and do, all the
time, every moment since birth”. It’s not just about “doing wrong” – it’s just
as much about “failing to do right”.
If
you are thinking “that’s impossible!” … you’ve grasped what sin is. It is
all-pervasive, and affects everyone. And even if we could change our lives
completely, this moment, and live a God-pleasing life every second from now on,
that wouldn’t put right the past sin. So if (as the Bible indicates) it is
impossible for God to look on (never mind accept) a sinner, everyone is doomed
– no one can be accepted. The God of Justice is exactly that … He will treat us
according to what we deserve (in old language, we’ll get our just deserts).
But
the God of Justice is also the God of Wisdom and Grace. He knew we would fail –
He sent Jesus to show us what He is like, and to carry our sins on the Cross,
and unjustly to die for them. And the New Testament declares the offer of
forgiveness to all who
·
Recognise
that they are sinners
·
Realise
that Christ died for their sin – so need no longer carry its guilt – repent
(think again) and
·
Determine
to follow Christ for the rest of their lives.
This
is “grace” … a gift to those who don’t deserve anything.
Why
is this important?
·
Our
sin cannot be got rid of by our efforts, however hard we try … but God can
forgive us, because Jesus paid the penalty for all who believe.
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