Tag: Christianity

Understanding Justification in Christ: A Christian Perspective

Published on by Texas GospelLeave a comment

TEXAS GOSPEL STAFF

Some people wrongly believe that being justified in Christ means we are no longer capable of sin, but this is not true. Just as Jesus remained sinless while taking on the condemnation of our sins, we remain flawed even though we’ve been justified. Our sinful nature doesn’t vanish, but our debt to God has been fully paid through Christ’s sacrifice.

Being justified doesn’t mean Christians stop sinning—it means their sins are no longer counted against them. Even though we remain imperfect, Christ’s righteousness has been credited to us. This doesn’t give us a reason to live carelessly, but it assures us that our status before God is secure because of Jesus, not our own works.

The believer’s struggle with sin is ongoing, but the beauty of justification is that our standing with God doesn’t depend on our perfection. We live out our faith, striving for holiness, not to earn favor but to respond to the love and mercy we have received through Christ.

The Assurance of No Condemnation for Believers

Published on by Texas GospelLeave a comment

TEXAS GOSPEL STAFF

The Bible doesn’t teach that Christians are completely free from sin. What it does say is that there is no condemnation for those who are in Christ Jesus. While believers still struggle with sin, they are no longer under the curse of sin because Jesus bore that curse on the cross. Jesus, who was sinless, took our place, absorbing the wrath we deserved. Because of Him, we stand forgiven and covered by His righteousness.

Even though Christians still have sin within them, they are not condemned. Christ’s righteousness now shields us, making us acceptable to God. It’s not that our sin disappears, but it is no longer held against us because Jesus took on our punishment. This is the foundation of our justification: Christ was condemned in our place, so we are now forgiven and set free.

Knowing this should bring believers both comfort and humility. We can be assured of God’s love and forgiveness, but we must also recognize that we didn’t earn it. Jesus’ sacrifice is the reason we are no longer condemned, and our continued struggle with sin should remind us of our deep need for Him daily.

Understanding Salvation: Judgment vs. Transformation

Published on by Texas GospelLeave a comment

TEXAS GOSPEL STAFF

It’s difficult to say which is the greatest gift for a Christian: being freed from judgment or being transformed by the Holy Spirit. On the one hand, Christ’s sacrifice frees us from God’s anger and judgment, offering us peace with God. On the other hand, the Spirit leads us to live a new life, changing us from the inside out. These two aspects of salvation seem equally important, so which should we be more thankful for?

    The truth is, we shouldn’t compare them. Both are equally essential. Being freed from judgment and being led by the Spirit work hand-in-hand. If we have truly escaped God’s judgment, it should show in how we live—not because we need to earn His acceptance, but because we already have it. The Holy Spirit empowers us to live in a way that reflects this acceptance.

    Living by the Spirit is not about perfection, but it shows our response to God’s grace. Our lives should demonstrate that we have been forgiven, and our hearts should long to reflect God’s holiness. The freedom we have in Christ is not a license to sin but a call to live righteously because we have been saved.

    The True Cause of Misery: Sin and Consequences | Texas Gospel Staff

    Published on by Texas GospelLeave a comment

    TEXAS GOSPEL STAFF

    Three things make life miserable: sin, condemnation, and suffering. We all know that life is full of troubles and hardships. People face poverty, sickness, insults, and exile. Ancient philosophers also thought about the misery of life, often more deeply than many Christians do. They saw everyday needs like eating, drinking, and sleeping as burdensome. They considered the body a weight on the soul and viewed the pursuit of fame, pleasure, and success as sources of misery and frustration.

    But the true cause of all this misery is sin and its consequences. The Bible tells us that the root of our troubles is turning away from God and living according to our own desires. This has brought suffering not just to people but to the whole world. God told Adam that because of sin, life would be filled with sorrow and the ground would be cursed. Adam, who was once immortal, would return to dust.

    The end of this misery reflects the beginning. Just as sin brought great suffering, punishment follows, leading to eternal separation from God. The difficulties of this life are just a glimpse of the greater punishment to come. If you live according to the flesh, you face not only physical death but also eternal death.

    However, the gospel offers a remedy. Jesus Christ came to remove sin, which is why His name means “He will save His people from their sins.” He is the Lamb of God who takes away the world’s sins. While sin led to condemnation, there is no longer condemnation for those in Christ Jesus. Jesus took on the curse of the law and removes sin through His Spirit. He offers two kinds of help: cleansing us from guilt with His blood and purifying us from sin with His Spirit.

    Even though we still face struggles, the true evil—sin and God’s wrath—is removed by Christ. Suffering and death are not eliminated but their sting is taken away. Through Christ, these hardships can work for our good. While we aren’t fully free from suffering now, Christ promises complete deliverance in the future. On that day, all sin, wrath, and misery will end, and we will be fully embraced by life and immortality.

    Thought for Today: The Causes of Christian Forgetfulness

    Published on by Texas GospelLeave a comment

    JEFF TURNER

    Why would a Christian forget about Christ as they go through daily life? One reason is the ongoing presence of sin within us. Despite being regenerated, we are not yet completely free from the influence of sin and death. The remnants of our old nature keep us from fully focusing on Christ.

    Another reason is the overwhelming influence of earthly things. Although these things are insignificant compared to Christ, their closeness to us makes them more impactful. Just as the moon has a stronger effect on ocean tides because of its proximity, earthly concerns can dominate our thoughts and push Christ to the background.

    Our forgetfulness is also linked to the natural tendencies of the human heart. We are easily distracted by immediate concerns and pleasures, which often overshadow our spiritual focus. These distractions, though seemingly minor, can draw our attention away from the eternal and divine.

    Ultimately, our forgetfulness is a reflection of our inner struggles. We are constantly battling with our own sinful nature and the allure of earthly things. This ongoing conflict makes it challenging to maintain a steady focus on Christ, even though we know He should be our central concern.

    Despite these challenges, it’s crucial to recognize and address these issues. Acknowledging the reasons for our forgetfulness can help us strive to keep Christ at the forefront of our minds and hearts.