The Righteousness of God

“For He {God} made Him {Jesus} who knew no sin to be sin for us, that we might become the righteousness of God in Him.” (2 Corinthians 5:21)

 

The term “forgive” means to send away, dismiss, release, or cancel (as in a debt). Biblically, the concept of forgiveness rests on the requirement that we be reconciled to the holy God who created us for His own purpose. Without forgiveness, we are otherwise incapable of measuring up to God’s standard because of our sin. The righteous punishment due the sinner is death, or permanent estrangement from God. Yet, because God loves us so, He designed a way back into a right relationship with Him. That “way” is Jesus Christ who gave His life and died in our place, thereby, paying our sin-debt by taking our punishment on Himself. This is the most important and wonderful truth we will ever learn — and learn it, we must, if we are ever to see God.

 

This is the simple and complete Gospel, and nothing needs to be added. The Lord never sent men to teach any other message, but to preach Christ, and Him crucified! That is the entry point and the assurance of eternal life, and it needs no embellishment. Those of us who preach must never tire of repeating the only message that matters; "Behold the Lamb of God, who takes away the sins of the world!" (John 1:29) Our fullness, joy, and righteousness are found in Him. May He be found alive and well in us.

Let's Pray - Father, I do not deserve the gift of everlasting life. Yet, Jesus gave His life for mine, and I humbly and gladly believe and receive the truth. That truth has set me free - free indeed! Amen.