Redemption

Romans 3:21-26

After three chapters of exposing our sin, at last Paul gives us a reason to rejoice. Jesus Christ has made it possible to have a right standing before the Father “for all who believe” the gospel. Yes, the sinful human condition is universal and deadly, but believers are declared righteous (justified) by God’s grace as a gift, through the redemption that is in Christ Jesus. The term “redemption” brings up the idea of slaves being purchased and freed. Paul also says that God sent His Son to be a “propitiation”; this word means that Jesus endured the wrath of God at sin in our place when He died on the cross. Because of the cross, our sin was punished, and yet we are simultaneously declared “not guilty” in God’s courtroom. This is what Paul means when he says that God is both “just” and the “justifier”. Because of Jesus, both justice and salvation have been accomplished. 

Questions for further thought:
1. In what ways have you put your trust in your own source of redemption?
2. How can this thinking masquerade as mistrust in God’s provision in Christ?

Challenge: Read and meditate on Romans 3. Jesus wants us to have a humble heart that beats with genuine love for God and compassion for others. Ask God to give you a heart for the things He loves.