No More Condemnation

Readings for today: Romans 7-8, Psalms 136

I recently preached a sermon from the Book of Revelation where I pointed out that Satan - a name that literally means “accuser” - has been thrown out of heaven for good. His access has been denied. His privileges taken away. He no longer can stand in the presence of God which means there is no one left to accuse us. No one left to attack us. No one left to condemn us before the throne of God. There is only Jesus who lives to make intercession for us. Only Jesus, our faithful high priest, who passed through the heavens to identify with us in our weakness, subject Himself to every temptation, and suffer and die in our place. This is why we can approach the throne of grace with confidence and receive mercy and help in our time of need. Because Jesus promises to save to the uttermost those who draw near to Him. I have to admit I was surprised at how deeply this idea impacted the church family I serve. So many wept as they thanked me for reminding them there is no longer any condemnation for those who are in Christ Jesus. Many others sent me messages and emails throughout the week to let me know how this point had stuck with them and shifted their perspective profoundly. I was humbled by the feedback.

The Apostle Paul strikes a nerve in Romans 8. After vulnerably and honestly acknowledging the depth of his despair over his sin - “Wretched man that I am, who shall save me from this body of death?” - Paul finds hope in the gospel. Because of Christ, there is no longer any condemnation. Because of Christ, we have been set free. Because of Christ, we have received the gift of the Holy Spirit. Because of Christ, the sufferings of this present world are no longer worth comparing to the glory that will one day be revealed in us. Because of Christ, all things work together for our good. Because of Christ, we have been called, predestined, justified, sanctified, and glorified. Because of Christ, there is no one left to accuse, no one left to condemn. Because of Christ, we know God is for us, not against us. Because of Christ, nothing can separate us from God’s love. These are some of the most amazing and profound truths in all the Bible. In fact, I have often thought that if we lost the whole Bible but were somehow able to retain the verses from this chapter, we would be okay.

I have been a Christian for over thirty years now. Thankfully, I had spiritual mentors who pointed me to the Book of Romans, and this chapter in particular, from the very beginning of my Christian journey. I have prayed over these verses. I have clung to these verses in difficult moments. I have wrestled with these verses in the midst of great suffering. I have found solace in these verses when in pain. I have staked my life on these verses - and many, many others - and God has proven Himself faithful. Faithful to save. Faithful to love. Faithful to forgive. Faithful to bless. No matter where life may find you today, place your trust in God. Trust what He says about Himself in this chapter and let these truths shape how you understand your faith and life.

Readings for tomorrow: Romans 9-10, Psalms 137

No Condemnation

Readings for today: John 7-8, Psalms 106

We’ve all probably heard the phrase, “Love the sinner, hate the sin.” I don’t know about you but I have not found it all that helpful. First of all, those who do not believe are not convinced they are “sinners” and tend to resent the moniker. Second, it’s really hard to do. Separating one’s behavior from one’s identity is growing more and more difficult in our world. In fact, there are many who would argue it is impossible. And yet Jesus seemed to do it.  

The beginning of John 8 is a famous story. Maybe one of the most famous in all of Scripture. And though it’s origin is questionable - it doesn’t appear in the earliest and best manuscripts - it just sounds like Jesus so we tend to keep it in. A woman caught in the very act of adultery is brought before Jesus. The Pharisees and teachers of the law are almost gleeful in their condemnation. They can’t wait to pick up the first stone. They throw her down before Him, pretty convinced He will have mercy which in turn will allow them to accuse Him of breaking the Law. Of course, anyone familiar with the Law can already see the problems. If they caught this woman in the act, where is the man? According to Leviticus 20:10 both parties deserve the death penalty. Perhaps that’s what Jesus is writing in the dust? If they caught her in the act, why have they not carried out her punishment? The Law is clear. Perhaps it’s because they don’t really care about her crime but are far more concerned with trapping Jesus? 

Then Jesus does this extraordinary thing. He puts the onus back on them. “Let the one who is without sin cast the first stone.” He hasn’t condemned her nor has He affirmed her. He hasn’t condemned the Pharisees nor has He affirmed them. Instead, Jesus brilliantly lobs the ball back in their court and forces them to make their own decision. The Pharisees put down their stones and slowly walk away. The woman is left all alone, prompting this famous exchange. “Woman, has no one condemned you?” “No one, Lord.” “Nor do I condemn you. Go and sin no more.” 

I simply love this about Jesus. He accepts people for who they are but loves them too much to leave them there. He meets us right where we are, takes us by the hand, and leads us to a better place. He accepts us, warts and all, without affirming our sin. To the Pharisee, he says, “Are you really without sin?” To those caught in sin, he says, “I do not condemn you.” And to both, he says, “Go and sin no more.” 

As Christians, there is a lot in this world we simply cannot affirm. Changing attitudes in gender and sexuality. Abortion on demand. Racism and sexual abuse. Deceit and falsehood. Anger and hate. These things are not of God and yet so many embrace them. Defend them. Use them as means to another end. The answer cannot be rejection. Jesus simply will not allow us to walk away from anyone, including our enemies. So we must find a way - as Jesus found a way - to accept people for who they are without affirming their beliefs, attitudes, or behaviors. Thankfully, this is the heart of the gospel. While we were still sinners, Christ died for us. While we were enemies of God, Christ made peace with us. While we were pushing Him away, Christ embraced us. May the Spirit give us the courage to do the same!

Readings for tomorrow: John 9-10, Psalms 107