Consequently, just as one trespass resulted in condemnation for all people, so also one righteous act resulted in justification and life for all people. For just as through the disobedience of the one man the many were made sinners, so also through the obedience of the one man the many will be made righteous. Romans 5:18
My friend and pastor Dale often repeated the phrase: Its not good people who go to heaven, its forgiven people who go to heaven. Think about that for a minue. Adam’s sin resulted in the condemnation of all people. Some have called this the ‘sin nature’ that all have inherited. Our own individual sin also makes us without excuse before God. Then the Law came from Moses and our sin was amplified. In other words, we became very aware of our sin. But, what Jesus Christ accomplished on the cross was a righteous act far greater than the unrighteous act of Adam. Jesus, gives every person the opportunity to live an exchanged life. To say farewell to the first Adam, and embrace the second Adam (Jesus) and the life He has in a justified and right relationship with God. Some will say ‘its unfair to ascribe to me in any way condemnation for the sin of Adam – another person… I will stand on my own merit’. Really? The Bible says “all sinned”. But, if you don’t accept the condemnation for the sin you were born into and continued to practice, can you really accept a salvation you didn’t earn?
Am I fully living in obedience to Jesus Christ? Have I appropriated the forgiveness of sin offered me?
God, I trust You and Your plan of salvation. I pray for opportunities this week to share the gospel and good news with someone who is far from You, but desires to come close. Give me divine appointments. In work, You know the projects that need to move forward. Show me what to do, what to say, and to do it all demonstrating Your great love.
