In Touch Daily Devotional 
by Dr. Charles Stanley

Friday July 7, 2006

Jesus’ Sacrifice Payment in Full

Psalm 51

 

A church deacon recently confessed a horrible sin in an online message community. After giving a description of what he’d done, he commented, “I know there’s a price to pay for this sin now. And that price is death.”

 

Not only was his heart broken over what he had done; he also knew that the effect on his friends and family would be devastating. And yet, overshadowing his remorse was fear. He had become afraid of God, believing that the sovereign Lord of the universe was now “out to get him.”

 

What would you say to this believer? Does his statement reflect an appropriate view of God’s response to sin? Romans 6:23 clearly states that “the wages of sin is death,” but this sorrowful young man had overlooked the all-important second half of the verse: “but the free gift of God is eternal life in Christ Jesus our Lord.” If our heavenly Father gives us a gift, we can trust that He will never take it away; it becomes ours to keep. That’s what a gift is! We did nothing to deserve it, so we can do nothing to lose it. It all rests on God’s initiative.

 

Moreover, a greater theological principle is at work here. If the believer’s sin after salvation could require death — or any form of punishment — then Jesus’ sacrifice was insufficient. However, the Bible tells us that Jesus’ death was wholly sufficient and a once-for-all payment of mankind’s sin-debt (Hebrews 7:26-27).

 

Either Jesus’ blood does cover our sins, or it doesn’t. There’s no middle ground. The Holy Spirit, Christ’s words, and Scripture’s testimony clearly assert that it does.


America at the Crossroads

As we celebrate our freedom this month, let us remember the roots from which our country was established. Dr. Stanley teaches in America at the Crossroads, that while a Christian's ultimate citizenship is in heaven, followers of Christ must help guide our nation back onto a godly course before it's too late. Order your copy here.

 

Summer Renewal Kit

Have you found yourself so busy with life that you are missing the little moments when God would like to meet with you? Let the Summer Renewal Kit help you slow down... You will be surprised how these little moments with God can renew, recharge, and refresh your spirit! Order your Summer Renewal Kit here.

 

Free online resource - Learn & Grow!

You are a unique individual specially designed by God.  Are you enjoying true freedom in Christ?  Log on to www.charlesstanleyinstitute.com and learn how you can live for God while still allowing your personality to shine through.  Dr. Stanley’s free lessons include Your Identity in Christ, Knowing God, and Life in the Spirit.