Justice: God Gives Christ in Our Place
| God presented Christ as a sacrifice of atonement, through the shedding of his blood, to be received by faith. He did this to demonstrate his righteousness... so as to be just and the one who justifies those who have faith in Jesus. (Romans3:23-26) |
The Bible says God "presented Christ as a sacrifice of atonement, through the shedding of His blood." In the Old Testament, once a year the high priest sprinkled blood on the mercy seat to show that sin needed a payment. But those sacrifices were only pictures pointing forward.
When Jesus came, He became the true and final sacrifice. His blood was the real payment for sin. Why? Because all have sinned and fall short of the glory of God (Romans 3:23). God is holy and cannot ignore sin. Yet God also loves us and wants to save us. So, He gave His Son to take our punishment. On the cross, Jesus carried the judgment we deserved. In this way, God's justice was satisfied and His love revealed. That is why Paul says God is both "just and the justifier."
This truth changes how we live every day:
- Rest in Jesus. When you feel guilty, remember He already paid for your sin.
- Be thankful. Salvation is by grace, not works. That should fill us with humility and joy.
- Share the message. As partners in God's mission, we tell others that forgiveness is found at the cross.
- Trust God's justice. Even when life feels unfair, God will deal with all wrongs - either through the cross or on the final day.
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Richard Mkandawire, married to Aretha, father to Khumbo, Mbawemi and Chimwemwe. A passionate supporter of soccer, serving at St. Columba's Presbyterian Church, Kabwe. Richard is the Convener of the Mission and Discipleship Committee.
