Articles

             As Frank Chesser has observed the real division in the Bible comes between Genesis chapters 2 & 3.  In Genesis chapter 3 we read of our mothers deception and Adam’s rebellion to the command not to eat of the fruit of the tree of knowledge. From this point forward the direction has been downward.  In chapter 4 we read of the first murder. By the time we get to chapter 6 we read where it repented the Lord that He had made man because his thoughts were only evil continually. After the flood we read of  the rise and fall of great nations as well as the marring of individuals by the stain of sin.  The Biblical record testifies to the need man has for a savior.

            The Bible also reveals to us a Savior who is capable of dealing with our enslavement to sin. Jesus said it this way, “Verily, verily, I say unto you, Whosoever committeth sin is the servant of sin... If the Son therefore shall make you free, ye shall be free indeed” John 8:34-36. 

            Jesus can deliver us from the stupidity of sin.  In the gospel of Luke Jesus tells of the younger son who waisted his inheritance and wound up in the pig pen of sin.  While feeding the pigs he “came to himself”.  The idea is that those who live a life of sin are really out of their minds.  Think about the effect sin has on our judgment when we are willing to throw away our lives, reputation, and eternal soul over a drink of alcohol.  When we are ready to sever our relationship with the Lord of life for a self destructive life of pleasure and ease which leads to death.

            Jesus can also save us from the guilt of sin.  The real problem with sin is that it cuts us off from God.  Isaiah said it this way,  “Behold, the LORD's hand is not shortened, that it cannot save; neither his ear heavy, that it cannot hear: But your iniquities have separated between you and your God, and your sins have hid his face from you, that he will not hear” Isa 59:1-2. The only hope we have with reconciliation is to have our sins remitted.  Peter said it like this,  “To him give all the prophets witness, that through his name whosoever believeth in him shall receive remission of sins” Acts 10:43.

            Christ is the only hope for a world lost in sin (John 14:6).   His blood is capable of removing all the sins of the world.  Paul told Titus, “For the grace of God that bringeth salvation hath appeared to all men,” Titus 2:11.  The offer is made to all but only those who meet His conditions can receive the benefits of His sacrifice.

            Jesus taught in the sermon on the mount that not everyone will be saved (Matthew 7:21-23).  He also taught that the way leading to death had many traveling on it (Matthew 7:13-14).  We must “do the will of the Father” if we would receive the benefits of the Savior’s sacrifice.

            His will involves...

Hearing (Romans 10:17)

Believing (John 3:16)

Repenting (Acts 17:30)

Confession (Romans 10:9-10)

Baptism (Acts 2:38)

Living faithful (Revelation 2:10)

            What about it friend? Have you obeyed the Master’s will?  Are you free from the slavery, the stupidity, and the guilt of sin?  Christ can make you what you ought to be if you will simply obey His will and live for Him.

                                                                                                                                    ~Patrick