JESUS AND THE SUBJECT OF HELL

Churches that preach an 'ethereal' kind of Jesus picture Him as a loving, gentle, and forgiving Savior who accepts all people as they are. They brush aside any Scripture that calls for total surrender to His Lordship and a death to 'self'. 

They've corrupted the term 'grace' ... turning it into a license to sin.  

True 'saving faith' bears this testimony ... I have been crucified with Christ; it is no longer I who live, but Christ lives in me; and the life which I now live in the flesh I live by faith in the Son of God, who loved me and gave Himself for me. (Galatians 2:20)

To only think of Jesus as a 'meek and mild' deity who came to serve mankind in general ... is nothing but an egocentric religious worldview. The Bible paints a much different image of His divine purpose and nature. 

His teachings are authoritative, and His words were meant to shake one's soul. 

As a matter of fact, Christ never shied away from the subject of 'hell'. He boldly addressed five things about it: 

Reality: Jesus taught that hell is not merely 'figurative or symbolic', but a real destination for the lost ... where their worm dieth not, and the fire is not quenched.(Mark 9:48)

Rebellion: He revealed that hell is for those who (like Satan) have rebelled against God ... Then He will also say to those on the left hand, ‘Depart from Me, you cursed, into the everlasting fire prepared for the devil and his angels'. (Matthew 25:41)

Regret: Christ doesn't portray hell as a pleasant place for those steeped in sin (or even a neutral type of existence). To the contrary, it is full of pain and regret ... There will be weeping and gnashing of teeth. (Matthew 8:12)

Relentlessness: Based on Jesus’ teaching, hell is not temporary. There is absolutely no 'exit' or 'respite' from the eternal consequences of unforgiven sin ... His winnowing fork is in his hand, to clear his threshing floor and to gather the wheat into his barn, but the chaff he will burn with unquenchable fire. (Luke 3:17)

Reconciliation: Thankfully, there is a way to escape hell before entering. Through faith in Christ, you can be reconciled to God ... Truly, truly, I say to you, the one who hears My word, and believes Him who sent Me, has eternal life, and does not come into judgment, but has passed out of death into life. (John 5:24)

If you have yet to trust Him, do it now. 

There is a hell to shun and a heaven to gain. 

GOD'S GOODNESS

Satan would have you think of God as an ill-tempered, unbending taskmaster. Yet the Gospel of Jesus Christ paints a much different picture ... 

For God so loved the world, that He gave his only begotten Son, that whosoever believeth in Him should not perish, but have everlasting life. For God sent not His Son into the world to condemn the world, but that the world through Him might be saved. (John 3:16-17)

Paul came against the hypocrisy of those who maliciously denounced the sins they saw in others. Their self-righteous indignation was undoubtedly rooted in a false impression of God's character ...

And do you think this, O man, you who judge those practicing such things, and doing the same, that you will escape the judgment of God? Or do you despise the riches of His goodness, forbearance, and longsuffering, not knowing that the goodness of God leads you to repentance? (Romans 2:3-4)

'The goodness of God' in the original Greek refers to His unconstrained kindness toward lost mankind ... the quality of being warmhearted, considerate, humane, gentle, and sympathetic.

His righteous anger was forever appeased when Jesus bore our sins on Calvary's cross ... Therefore, since we have now been justified by His blood, we will be saved from the wrath of God through Him. (Romans 5:9)

It is not the fear of eternal punishment that leads people to repent of their sins. The revelation of God's unwarranted kindness toward sinners is what brings us to our knees. He is not a heartless dictator but a merciful, forgiving, loving God ... Who desires that all people be saved and come to a knowledge of the truth. (1 Timothy 2:4)

But know this ... 
There remains an intense fury toward those who reject the Lord's sacrifice for sin ...  He who believes in the Son has everlasting life; and he who does not believe the Son shall not see life, but the wrath of God abides on him. (John 3:36)

Experience 'God's goodness'. 

THE SYMPHONY OF SOLACE

A heartening refrain echoes through the corridors of God's Word ... that of comfort and consolation in times of distress or sadness. From those inspired pages comes the promise that you are not alone.  

We've come to understand that tribulation is an inescapable part of a believer's life, testing our resolve and challenging our faith as we await future redemption ... 

Beloved, do not think it strange concerning the fiery trial which is to try you, as though some strange thing happened to you; but rejoice to the extent that you partake of Christ’s sufferings, that when His glory is revealed, you may also be glad with exceeding joy. (1 Peter 4:12-13)

The Book of Psalms is a 'symphony of solace'. You hear its melodious chorus, and it tenderly embraces your wearied soul with divine insight and cherished hope:

• The Lord is close to the brokenhearted and saves those who are crushed in spirit. (Psalm 34:18) 

• I will raise my eyes to the mountains; From where will my help come? My help comes from the Lord, who made heaven and earth. (Psalm 121:1-2)

• Yea, though I walk through the valley of the shadow of death, I will fear no evil; For You are with me; Your rod and Your staff, they comfort me. (Psalm 23:4)

The lyrics of our God's anthem resonate deeply in the heart of those who love Him. Even in our most harrowing moments, the assurance of faith's reward is brought to our conscience ... and we are gladdened. 

The apostle Paul heard that song and proclaimed ... I consider that our present sufferings are not worth comparing with the glory that will be revealed in us. (Romans 8:18)

By taking hold of that eternal perspective, you uncover a resilience that propels you through the trials of life. They become 'stepping stones' rather than 'stumbling blocks' on your walk of faith. 

Hear the music that flows from God's throne and be encouraged, pilgrim. 

CROWNS

Jesus promised rewards for those who faithfully serve Him; symbolized by 'crowns' ... 

• Blessed is the man who endures temptation; for when he has been approved, he will receive the crown of life which the Lord has promised to those who love Him. (James 1:12)

• When the Chief Shepherd appears, you will receive the crown of glory that does not fade away. (1 Peter 5:4)

• Behold, I am coming quickly! Hold fast what you have, that no one may take your crown. (Revelation 3:11)

These 'crowns' encourage us to fix our eyes on eternal glory, be steadfast in our devotion to Christ, and run our race with endurance. 

Note that they contrast deeply with the one brutally pressed into our Savior's brow ... They put a purple robe on Him, then twisted together a crown of thorns and set it on Him. (Mark 15:17)

That shameful act will be forever rectified very soon. In John's vision of future events, one of the scenes is of the exalted Son of God ... 

The twenty-four elders fall down before Him who sits on the throne and worship Him who lives forever and ever, and cast their crowns before the throne, saying: “You are worthy, O Lord, To receive glory and honor and power; For You created all things, And by Your will they exist and were created.” (Revelation 4:10-11)

When you come face to face with Jesus Christ, the crown in your hand will seem inadequate to present to the One who gave His life for you. Much like those elders, you'll be so overcome with gratitude that casting it at His feet will be your spontaneous act of worship. 

And rightfully so ... for He is worthy of all glory, honor, and power. 

BELIEF OR FAITH ?

The two terms are often used interchangeably. However, spiritually speaking, there is a significant difference ... 

• 'Belief' has to do with an intellectual acceptance of facts, a point of view that fails to move the needle.   

• 'Faith' is transformative, a trust and commitment resulting in a change of one's behavior.

Spurgeon - It is not enough to simply believe certain things about God; one must also trust Him and act upon that trust. Belief is a necessary component of faith, but not the whole picture. Faith is belief in action, a complete and active reliance on God and His promises. 

If you ask the average person if he 'believes' in Jesus Christ, he would probably interpret the question as ... 'Do you believe that He existed?' Many would answer in the affirmative, but that doesn't mean they've put their 'faith' in Him. 

Church pews are filled with people who mentally acknowledge that the Son of God offered Himself on Calvary's cross to redeem mankind, yet they have never surrendered to His Lordship. They mistakenly think that salvation comes by way of an outward 'belief' system, rather than an inward 'faith' that results in a transformed life. 

Jesus called them out ... These people honor me with their lips, but their hearts are far from me. They worship me in vain; their teachings are merely human rules. (Matthew 15:8-9)

The Bible warns 'pretenders to the faith' ... You believe that there is one God. Good! Even the demons believe that - and shudder. (James 2:19) 

Satan and his minions have 'belief', but no 'faith'. Likewise, countless so-called Christians have 'religion', but no 'relationship' with God. 

They fail to understand ... For by grace you have been saved through faith, and that not of yourselves. (Ephesians 2:8)

Paul explained it this way ... I have been crucified with Christ; it is no longer I who live, but Christ lives in me; and the life which I now live in the flesh I live by faith in the Son of God, who loved me and gave Himself for me. (Galatians 2:20)

You are admonished to ... Examine yourself as to whether you are in the faith. (2 Corinthians 13:5)

On which side did you fall ... 'Belief' or 'Faith'?

CHRIST'S INNER CIRCLE

According to Scripture, Jesus chose twelve disciples ... Simon Peter, Andrew, James, John, Philip, Bartholomew, Matthew, Thomas, James son of Alphaeus, Simon the Zealot, Judas son of James, and Judas Iscariot. 

Of that number, three were especially close to Him. 

Peter, James, and John were present at the transfiguration, witnessed Jairus's daughter raised from the dead, and accompanied Christ when He prayed in the Garden of Gethsemane. 

The apostle Paul came to work in conjunction with these stalwarts of the faith ... James, Peter, and John, who were known as pillars of the church, recognized the gift God had given me, and they accepted Barnabas and me as their co-workers. They encouraged us to keep preaching to the Gentiles, while they continued their work with the Jews. (Galatians 2:9)

Having been eyewitnesses to several amazing events in Jesus’ ministry, they were well-prepared for future service. Anointed by God for a divine purpose, the 'inner circle' would move mountains for His Kingdom. 

Peter: He was enthusiastic, strong-willed, impulsive, and, at times, brash. After denying he knew Jesus, Peter repented, and the Lord restored him. He became a fearless preacher; on the Day of Pentecost, the Holy Spirit worked in the hearts of his listeners ... Those who accepted his message were baptized, and about three thousand were added to their number that day. They devoted themselves to the apostles’ teaching and to fellowship, to the breaking of bread and to prayer. (Acts 2:41-42)

James and John: Nicknamed the 'Sons of Thunder' because of their boldness, their God-given authority over the early church had a seismic impact. James was martyred for his devotion to Christ ... King Herod arrested some who belonged to the church, intending to persecute them. He had James, the brother of John, put to death with the sword. (Acts 12:1-2)  John was 'the disciple whom Jesus loved' (John 13:23). On Calvary, he was called to care for Jesus' mother and eventually died during his exile on the Isle of Patmos.  

The special attention Jesus gave to Peter, James, and John was significant. The Gospel was deeply rooted in these three men, and each one greatly influenced a lost and dying world. They were instrumental in establishing the early church, fulfilling the Lord's call to be 'fishers of men'. 

PURGATORY

According to the Catholic belief system, there is a place where a Christian’s soul goes after death to be cleansed of the sins that had not been fully paid for in this life. 

But ... the Word of God never mentions 'Purgatory'. 

As a matter of fact, the doctrine that states there is a 'middle ground' for purification runs contrary to Scripture. The idea that we who are saved by grace through faith have to pay for our sins after death is the polar opposite of what the Bible says about redemption.

To proclaim that we play a part in our own salvation implies that Jesus’ death was 'insufficient' ... it is a corrupt theological ideology steeped in pride. There is absolutely no 'bargaining table' at which one can negotiate acceptance into God's Kingdom.  

To say that you must atone for your own sins is to deny the adequacy of Christ's redemptive act ... He is the atoning sacrifice for our sins, and not only for ours but also for the sins of the whole world. (1 John 2:2)    

He came as the Suffering Servant ... He was wounded for our transgressions, He was bruised for our iniquities; The chastisement for our peace was upon Him, and by His stripes we are healed. (Isaiah 53:5)

Jesus paid it all ... But God demonstrates His own love toward us, in that while we were still sinners, Christ died for us. (Romans 5:8) 

From Calvary's cross, came the most profound words ever uttered ... IT IS FINISHED. (John 19:30) 

The concept of 'purgatory' and the beliefs attached to it (prayers for the dead, meritorious works on their behalf, etc.) imply that faith alone cannot secure a believer's position in the family of God, but the Bible says ... For by grace you have been saved through faith, and that not of yourselves; it is the gift of God, not of works, lest anyone should boast. (Ephesians 2:8-9) 

The New Testament consistently presents the afterlife as having two eternal destinations - heaven or hell. There is no intermediate state ... And just as it is destined for people to die once, and after this comes judgment. (Hebrews 9:27)

Be warned: Those who trust that there is a transitional place where the soul is made acceptable in God's sight ... end up living unsanctified lives here. 'Uncloaked' by the righteousness of Christ, they meet a baleful end.  

THE MESSAGE MISSED

When the plan of salvation is shared or biblical truths taught, the hearer can either focus on the message ... or the messenger. 

John Piper used this word picture: 

Suppose you have a one-year-old child sitting on your lap and suddenly, in the window, there is a beautiful bird, and you hold out your hand to point at the bird and say, "Look, look at the bird." What does the child look at? He looks at your hand and the sign you are making with your fingers. He is excited because you are excited. He joins in imitating the sign as best he can. But the problem is, he never sees the bird. The whole point of the sign is missed. 

Paul was determined to have his audience direct their attention toward the Lord ... not himself. 

And I, brethren, when I came to you, did not come with excellence of speech or of wisdom, declaring to you the testimony of God. For I determined not to know anything among you except Jesus Christ and Him crucified. (1 Corinthians 2:1-2) 

And like Paul, we are called upon to share the Gospel in a manner that keeps us personally out of the limelight. 

For God, who commanded the light to shine out of darkness, hath shone in our hearts, to give the light of the knowledge of the glory of God in the face of Jesus Christ. But we have this treasure in earthen vessels, that the excellency of the power may be of God, and not of us.  (2 Corinthians 4:6-7)

When you receive praise from men for something you've done for the Lord, it is tempting to take at least a small portion of the credit. 

Place yourself behind the Cross of Calvary, so as not to distract from its Message. 

 

WHO IS HE TO YOU ?

The Bible reveals that Jesus came as the Promised Messiah, the Only Begotten of the Father, the Lamb of God.  

You may intellectually acknowledge these things, yet a critical question remains (and your response to it has eternal consequences). 

Jesus asked ... 

“But who do you say that I am?” 
Simon Peter replied, “You are the Christ, the Son of the living God.” (Matthew 16:15-16)

A firm belief that He is 'the Christ' is an anchor for your soul. His sufficiency as Lord negates every other religious offering and voids any vain attempt to navigate this lost and dying world in your own strength. 

Many believe Jesus was a good teacher, an example of love, a great humanitarian, an excellent leader, and even a miracle worker. But, unless you confess Him as Lord, you reduce Him to less than who He is ... God. 

In the beginning, was the Word, and the Word was with God, and the Word was God. He was in the beginning with God. All things were made through Him, and without Him, nothing was made that was made. In Him was life, and the life was the light of men. (John 1:4)

And the Word became flesh and dwelt among us, and we beheld His glory, the glory as of the only begotten of the Father, full of grace and truth. (John 1:14)

Satan uses 'religion'. 

He allows people to have great respect for Jesus, as long as they deny His Deity. Here are just a few of the false teachings concerning our Lord ... 

Muslims respect and venerate Jesus, whom they consider a prophet ... one of God's greatest messengers to mankind. They believe in His virgin birth, miraculous ministry, and that He is the Messiah, but they deny that He is God. Inside the Dome of the Rock in Jerusalem, an inscription reads, "There is no God but God; Muhammad is his Prophet. Jesus is also his Prophet, but God has no son; He neither begets nor is begotten."

Mormons believe in the Father, the Son, and the Holy Spirit ... but deny the 'three in one' Trinity. They believe Jesus is their savior, but deny that He is God. They say He is a created being, the first spirit to be born of the Father, one of God's many sons, one of many gods, and the spiritual brother of Lucifer. (yikes)

Jehovah's Witnesses reject the deity of Christ, the Trinity, and the Holy Spirit. They say Jesus is Michael the archangel, the highest of all created beings. They claim our Bible has been corrupted over the ages, and only their bible translation is accurate. 

Unitarians deny the Trinity, teaching instead that God is simply 'one'. They believe Jesus was a great teacher, inspired by God, and a wonderful example ... but they deny that He is God. 

Do you see the theme in these false teachings? If you wonder about someone's faith, just ask them if they believe Jesus is God and the Trinity is divine truth. Cults, world religions, and unsaved men all deny these foundational doctrines. 

Note that the question, 'Who do you say that I am?' began with the word 'But'. It was used for contrast. In essence, Jesus is saying, 'Many people have a wrong impression of Me ... 'But' where do you stand?' 

There is only one correct answer, and it determines your destiny. Peter said, 'You are the Christ, the Son of the living God'. If you profess anything else, be warned ... Wide is the gate and broad is the way that leads to destruction. (Matthew 7:13)

Forget what others believe ... Who do you say Jesus is? 

 

ALL YOU NEED

To have Christ is to have everything; to not have Him is to have ... absolutely nothing. 

Joy, peace, meaning, value, purpose, hope, and fulfillment are all bound up in Him. When a person receives Jesus Christ as Lord and Savior, they enter into an all-sufficient relationship with an all-sufficient Christ.

For in Him dwells all the fullness of the Godhead bodily, and you are complete in Him, who is the head of all principality and power. (Colossians 2:9-10)

You are truly, from a spiritual viewpoint, complete in Him. Everything written in the New Testament speaks to the sufficiency of Jesus Christ.

In Christ, we have all wisdom and righteousness and sanctification and redemption. (1 Corinthians 1:30)  

We now live in a church age where there is doubt cast upon whether or not Christ is enough. Many say they have faith in Him, but it is invariably based on ... Christ plus 'something'. It might be Christ plus human intellect, Christ plus human acts of charity, or Christ plus any of assorted man-made doctrines and rituals. 

But ... having a role in your own redemption does not bring the salvation found in a 'Christ plus nothing' faith. Jesus Christ is the all-sufficient One, and we are to abandon our human effort and stubborn independence ...

I have been crucified with Christ; it is no longer I who live, but Christ lives in me; and the life which I now live in the flesh I live by faith in the Son of God, who loved me and gave Himself for me. (Galatians 2:20)

A 'Christ plus' theology only elevates and indulges the flesh, making one proud of his sacrifices, his insights, his spiritual achievements, and (ironically) ... his humbleness. It represents a self-styled false religion, laced with forged piety. 

And ... it ultimately rejects Christ's sovereignty. 

I am the Alpha and the Omega, the Beginning and the End,” says the Lord, “Who is and Who was and Who is to come, the Almighty. (Revelation 1:8)

MacArthur - In Christ, I find the satisfaction borne of knowing forever I am His, and He is mine. In Christ, I find a harbor from the tempest and shelter from the darkness. In Christ I find the greatest of treasures: the washing white from sin ... my salvation. In Him is found a joy that knows no measure, a gift from One who gave His all for me. In Christ, I find the peace that shares with doubt no part. 

Either the Lord Jesus Christ is all I need for every aspect of life, or He is nothing to me. There is no rest for the soul that trusts in some 'middle ground' theology that perpetuates a never-ending spiritual struggle. 

Lay everything at the foot of the cross, pilgrim. 

BEWARE FALSE DOCTRINE

There are six points of Christology upon which a believer's faith lies ...

He appeared in the flesh, was vindicated by the Spirit, was seen by angels, was preached among the nations, was believed on in the world, and was taken up in glory. (1 Timothy 3:16)

But as we move into chapter four, Paul warns Timothy of a coming apostasy that will plague the church. Wherever the light of the Gospel shines, the shadow of false doctrine lurks closely behind. There is always a danger of people adding to or subtracting from the message of the cross. 

Now the Spirit expressly says that in latter times some will depart from the faith, giving heed to deceiving spirits and doctrines of demons, speaking lies in hypocrisy, having their own conscience seared with a hot iron. (1 Timothy 4:1-2)

The above revelation comes from the Spirit of God Himself. It was spoken 'expressly' ... that is, in specific terms so that there can be no question about what is being said. A follower of Christ must constantly be on guard against false teaching, for whenever divine 'truth' is revealed ... 'error' often raises its head. 

It is obvious that we are to resist the sin that is common to this world's overt carnality, but scripture reveals that Satan's most duplicitous weapon may be 'religion' itself. 

Thus ... seekers of truth have to navigate through a dangerous 'spiritual minefield'. 

False teachers are experts in the unholy art of seduction. They come to a man in his time of intellectual doubt, devastating sorrow, spiritual failure, or physical weakness. Heretics tactfully plant seeds of false doctrine that promise to satisfy one's desperate desire to be accepted by God. 

The all-sufficiency of Jesus Christ is rejected by their apostate belief system. 

Mormon and Jehovah's Witness teachings are undoubtedly among those that lead people down the wrong path. But know this ... mainline denominations have also become error-filled conduits of false narratives in these 'last days'. 

Faithfully study Scripture, pray without ceasing, and with God-given discernment ... walk by faith through the enemy's noxious minefield. 

The Lord will guard your way. 

THE ORDER OF THINGS

The Word of God reveals that Salvation has 'past, present, and future' elements ...  

• Justification is the foundation upon which Salvation is built. It represents the 'past tense' of a threefold process ... For by grace, you have been saved through faith, and that not of yourselves; it is the gift of God. (Ephesians 2:8) 'Justification' is much more than the forgiveness of our sins; it means that we have been declared righteous in the eyes of God. The conditions for being 'justified' are faith in the finished work of Jesus Christ and surrendering one's life to His Lordship.

• Sanctification is the 'present tense' of Salvation, a process that begins with the 'new birth' and continues throughout our life on earth to mature us into Christ's likeness ... Now may the God of peace Himself sanctify you completely; and may your whole spirit, soul, and body be preserved blameless at the coming of our Lord Jesus Christ. (1 Thessalonians 5:23) It is what God initiates in us through the Holy Spirit, but we still play a part through obedience ... Work out your salvation with fear and trembling, for it is God who works in you to will and to act in order to fulfill his good purpose. (Philippians 2:12-13) 

• Glorification is the 'future tense' of Salvation. When we finally pass from this life into eternity, our transformation will be complete ... Eye has not seen, nor ear heard, Nor have entered into the heart of man The things which God has prepared for those who love Him. (1 Corinthians 2:9) Until that day, we are to 'glorify' Jesus Christ as the Son of God and Savior of the world. 

Simply put ... Justification saves you from the 'penalty' of sin, Sanctification saves you from the 'power' of sin, and Glorification saves you from the 'presence' of sin. 

  

NEVER ALONE

There are times when God seems distant and uninvolved in your personal walk of faith. When you need Him most, your heartfelt prayers go unanswered, and you feel adrift without an anchor for your soul. 

But your Lord has been there all along ... 'I will never leave you nor forsake you'. (Hebrews 13:5)

What appears to be 'silence and inactivity' is instead a vital step in your growth as a believer. When you allow the process of sanctification to transform you into the likeness of Christ, your trust in His Lordship is tested. 

A most profound question comes to your heart and mind ... Are you the center of your life, or does Jesus hold that place? Can you truly claim the following verse? 

I have been crucified with Christ; it is no longer I who live, but Christ lives in me; and the life which I now live in the flesh I live by faith in the Son of God, who loved me and gave Himself for me. (Galatians 2:20)

If not ... the Holy Spirit will usher you from your religious acumen into a spiritual wilderness. Completely alone, emptied out, and utterly broken, you finally lay your burdened life down and surrender to the Lord's sovereignty. His will is all that matters to you now. 

The deafening silence that once screamed 'abandonment' has been used to bring you into a closer relationship with your heavenly Father. 

He never left your side ... 

 

HARD TO SAY

The three most difficult words for mankind to utter might be 'I have sinned'. Yet confession is not only the foundation on which coming to Christ is built ... but a daily requirement thereafter. 

Before an individual can be saved, he must first acknowledge that he cannot save himself ... 

For by grace are ye saved through faith; and that not of yourselves: it is the gift of God: Not of works, lest any man should boast. (Ephesians 2:8-9)

When the Holy Spirit convicts a man of his lost condition, he will experience the gravity of sin and his desperate need for a Savior. The atonement wrought by Jesus Christ's death, burial, and resurrection can then be received through acknowledging Him as Lord ... 

That if thou shalt confess with thy mouth the Lord Jesus, and shalt believe in thine heart that God hath raised him from the dead, thou shalt be saved. (Romans 10:9)

Once redeemed, a Christian resides in a world that is not his home. He walks as a child of God, yet his feet become 'dirty' ... defiled by sins of thought, word, and deed. Although he is a new creature in Christ, the 'sin nature' is not yet conquered.

For I know that in me (that is, in my flesh) nothing good dwells; for to will is present with me, but how to perform what is good I do not find. (Romans 7:18)

Instead of being seen as a 'shameful' exercise to be avoided, confession is, in fact, the best thing for you to practice. Respond to the guilt associated with sin quickly ... don't miss the opportunity to experience the Lord's mercy and grace. 

He who conceals his transgressions will not prosper, but he who confesses and forsakes them will find compassion. (Proverbs 28:13)

Oswald Chambers - When the Holy Spirit begins to unearth the works of the flesh in you, don’t temporize, don’t whitewash them; don’t call your suspicion ... "discernment of the spirit", or your ill-temper ... "righteous indignation". Bring it to the light, come face to face with it, confess it, and get it cleansed away.

If we confess our sins, He is faithful and righteous to forgive us our sins and to cleanse us from all unrighteousness. (1 John 1:9)

Spurgeon - We must confess the guilt, as well as the fact of sin. It is useless to conceal it, for it is well known to God. It is beneficial for us to own it ... a full confession softens and humbles the heart. When the soul determines to lay low and plead guilty, absolution is near at hand. Not only is the sin itself pardoned, but the iniquity of it; the virus of its guilt is put away as soon as the acknowledgment is made. God's pardon is deep and thorough, for the knife of mercy cuts at the roots of the ill weed of sin. 

The heartfelt practice of confessing sin is the evidence that you are a new creation in Christ. It began when you were saved and should continue unimpeded as you navigate this fallen world. 

 

WHAT IS FORGIVENESS

'Forgiveness' is not merely the quieting of a guilty conscience, but a 'right standing' with God ... given, not earned.

Blessed is he whose transgression is forgiven, whose sin is covered. Blessed is the man to whom the Lord imputes no iniquity.  (Psalm 32:1-2)

David used three words to describe sin ...
· 'Transgression' - crossing a line, defying authority.
· 'Sin' - falling short of or missing a mark.
· 'Iniquity' - crookedness and distortion.

and three terms to describe what God does to put away sin.
· 'Forgiven' - the lifting of a burden or a debt.
· 'Covered' - that of sacrificial blood covering sin.
· 'Does not impute' - as in bookkeeping; it does not count against a person.

Sin, whether against God or man, whether great or small, whether conscious or inadvertent, whether by omission or commission ... is forgiven through surrendering your life to the Lordship of Jesus Christ.

In Him we have redemption through His blood, the forgiveness of sins, in accordance with the riches of God’s grace.  (Ephesians 1:7)

'Forgiveness' is God wiping the slate clean so that sin no longer hangs over you like the sharpened blade of a guillotine, ready to drop at any moment.

But now in Christ Jesus, you who formerly were far off have been brought near by the blood of Christ. (Ephesians 2:13)

You are set free by the 'only' ransom that is deemed acceptable by God, the precious blood of His Beloved Son.

Mears - 'Redemption' is the most glorious work of God. It is far greater than His work of creation. He spoke a word and worlds were formed, but it cost Him the life of His beloved Son to redeem the world.

'Forgiveness' releases you from a failed moral obligation by placing it upon the Lamb of God. Jesus Christ bore your sin debt and carried it an infinite distance away ... with no possibility of return. 

You are an eternal benefactor of the riches of His Grace ... walk therein. 

WALKING IT OUT

At the very moment you receive the gift of salvation, your standing before the Father is recast forever. Cloaked in the righteousness of His Son, you are adopted into the family of God. 

The influence of your old life loses its power as you surrender it to the Lord. Under the Holy Spirit's guidance, you are placed on the path of 'sanctification' ... a lifelong transformative process that recreates you into His likeness. 

It becomes the very essence of your 'walk of faith'. Scripture speaks of three areas where change takes place ... 

LOVE ... Therefore, be imitators of God as dear children. And walk in love, as Christ also has loved us and given Himself for us. (Ephesians 5:1-2)  We are to put into practice that which we have witnessed in the life of Jesus. Empowered by the Holy Spirit to imitate His loving nature, evidence that you are a genuine believer is revealed. 

LIGHT ... For you were once darkness, but now you are light in the Lord. Walk as children of light. (Ephesians 5:8)  This is not to make you dwell on hurtful thoughts of your past ... but to remember what darkness was like. Your deliverance from the 'blindness' associated with a life without Christ will cause you to treasure His glorious 'light'. 

WISDOM ... See then that you walk circumspectly, not as fools but as wise, redeeming the time, because the days are evil. (Ephesians 5:15-16)  Your newfound wisdom concerning this life's spiritual battlefield must be utilized. Every day should be seen as an opportunity to serve the Lord ... but with total awareness that there is an adversary who seeks to keep you from it.

When your flesh gets in the way, the enemy tempts you to doubt the goodness and sufficiency of God's path. Abiding in Christ is crucial to your steadfastness as you 'walk' in His way. 

COME INTO THE ARK

Though some biblical scholars believe that the following passage refers to the second coming of Christ at the end of the tribulation, it is instead a picture of what the world will be like when the rapture of the church takes place ... 

But as the days of Noah were, so shall also the coming of the Son of man be. For as in the days that were before the flood they were eating and drinking, marrying and giving in marriage, until the day that Noe entered into the ark, and knew not until the flood came, and took them all away; so shall also the coming of the Son of man be. 

Then shall two be in the field; the one shall be taken, and the other left. Two women shall be grinding at the mill; the one shall be taken, and the other left. Watch therefore: for ye know not what hour your Lord doth come. (Matthew 24:37-42)

The description fits the times we are currently experiencing. 

At the end of the tribulation period, there will be no normalcy whatsoever ... no eating and drinking and giving in marriage. The turmoil of that time will be unprecedented in its scope.

James Smith - As all who entered the Ark in the days of Noah were saved, so shall also the coming of the Son of Man be. The Lord said, "Come thou and all thy house into the Ark". Noah and his family obeyed the call; then "the Lord shut him in" - "kept by the power of God through faith unto salvation". 

All who are in Christ shall be taken away before the judgment of God falls upon this disobedient and unbelieving generation.  

Let not your heart be troubled ... 

REMEMBER THE CROSS

Many believers tend to distance themselves from the reality of the cross and the brutality that took place there. Though the crucifixion of Jesus is the single most important event in all of human history, it is often relegated to a religious symbol hanging from a necklace. 

Our spiritual journey should be identified with it .. I have been crucified with Christ; it is no longer I who live, but Christ lives in me; and the life which I now live in the flesh I live by faith in the Son of God, who loved me and gave Himself for me. (Galatians 2:20)

Churches usually focus on the cross of Calvary once a year on Good Friday. The gravity of what Jesus went through on our behalf is brought to light, and an appreciation for the cost of our redemption is rekindled for a time. But it should not just be assigned to a seasonal observance. The cross and what it symbolizes separate Christianity from all other religions. We are to live each day in its shadow, embracing the truth found there. Those who do are impacted greatly ... For the message of the cross is foolishness to those who are perishing, but to us who are being saved, it is the power of God. (1 Corinthians 1:18)

D L Moody likened the cross of Christ to a key of gold which, if accepted, opens paradise for you ... but, if unaccepted, it becomes an iron key and opens the gates of hell.  

If you sojourn here with a heart of unbelief ... face Calvary, see the price paid, and witness God's plan of salvation played out on your behalf. 

Repent and receive eternal life ... your redemption is there for the claiming. 

THE ADVOCATE

In our human court system, a lawyer speaks on behalf of their client. He has in-depth knowledge of the law and can skillfully navigate complicated statutes. However, as an earthly advocate, he only has 'external' evidence with which to argue the case. 

There is also a courtroom in the spiritual realm, where the repentant sinner has a far better Advocate to plead his case. It is based on the 'internal' evidence of a surrendered heart. 

Jesus' advocacy is accepted because He fulfilled His Father's redemptive plan ... For He made Him who knew no sin to be sin for us, that we might become the righteousness of God in Him. (2 Corinthians 5:21)

Salvation is secure because the One who purchased it with His own blood stands in the gap. He satisfied the demands of divine justice, so that we are freed from the penalty of sin ... Who is he who condemns? It is Christ who died, and furthermore is also risen, Who is even at the right hand of God, Who also makes intercession for us. (Romans 8:34)

Imagine Jesus before His Father as your defense attorney ... I know this one has sinned and is guilty as charged. However, You've said that My sacrifice is sufficient payment for the debt he owes. You can pronounce him ‘Not Guilty' because My righteousness was applied to his account when he trusted Me for salvation.  

Be encouraged concerning your walk of faith, even when you stumble ... My little children, I am writing these things to you so that you may not sin. But if anyone does sin, we have an Advocate with the Father, Jesus Christ the righteous. (1 John 2:1) 

He does not just represent you 'theoretically'; He represents you 'experientially'. Jesus lived as a man, was tempted in every way you are, and died as the sinless Lamb of God. That more than qualifies Him to be your much-needed Advocate.    

 

DIVIDED LOYALTY

What God wants from us is 'singleness of heart'. We are not only to recognize the Lordship of Jesus Christ, but submit ourselves to His sovereign rule alone. There is no middle ground on which to stand; it is impossible to be at peace when one foot is in the Kingdom and the other in the world ... 

Do you not know that the one to whom you present yourselves as slaves for obedience, you are slaves of that same one whom you obey, either of sin resulting in death, or of obedience resulting in righteousness? (Romans 6:16)

Our 'old nature' thinks that we should consider every option available (whether it conflicts with our statement of faith or not). One commentary put it this way ...    

It is like the heart of a girl to whom a young man once proposed. He said, “Darling, I want you to know that I love you more than anything else in the world. I want you to marry me. I’m not rich. I don’t have a yacht or a Rolls-Royce like Johnny Brown, but I do love you with all my heart.” She thought for a minute and then replied, “I love you with all my heart, too, but tell me more about Johnny Brown.” (Precept Austin)

Every person serves something (or someone), and Christians are no exception. Believers are not set free from slavery when they receive the gift of salvation; they come under the authority of a new Master. 

In essence, you stood on the auction block as a slave, and Jesus purchased your sin-laden life with His own blood. 

He owns you now and fiercely guards what is rightfully His ... For you were bought at a price; therefore glorify God in your body and in your spirit, which are God’s. (1 Corinthians 6:20)

Christ calls us to follow Him and abandon all others. He doesn’t share His throne with anyone. No one can serve two masters; for either he will hate the one and love the other, or he will be devoted to one and despise the other. (Matthew 6:24) 

Divided loyalty is ... no loyalty.