Articles
No Condemnation
“There is therefore now no condemnation to those who are in Christ Jesus, who do not walk according to the flesh, but according to the Spirit” (Romans 8:1, NKJV).
What a powerful verse. This passage gives such assurance and hope. It produces great confidence.
However, we can make one of two mistakes as think about our sins. We are either too sensitive to them or not sensitive enough. Some are not grieved when their selfishness hurts others and push God away. We need the light of God’s word to shine brightly on us to show us the damage our sins cause so that we will become more sensitive.
Additionally, in Romans 8:1, Paul is addressing the second problem. People can feel oppressive with guilt and shame because of their sins. Guilt focuses on specific sins. God uses guilt to move us to come to Him and receive forgiveness. Guilt can also consume our hearts and minds with a generalized, foreboding self-condemnation. “I am a terrible person, and I will never be any better. God could never forgive me.”
In this amazing statement in Romans 8:1, Paul helps us see that those in Christ never have to fear God; there is no condemnation. As we continue to confess and pray for forgiveness, He will continue to forgive. As we walk in the light, we walk according to the Spirit. When we walk according to the Spirit, He rules and controls our thoughts and habits. He molds our character. The perfect love of God casts out fear. Guilt is completely forgiven and is washed away by God’s amazing grace.
If guilt is our curse and we feel the nagging, oppressive sense of shame that we’re too bad for God to love us, this is great news! Let the power of the gospel have its powerful work on your heart. The gospel provided the path to forgiveness and fellowship with God.
Life with the Son provides peace and allows us to live with the condemnation of sin, shame, and doubt.
Rickie Jenkins
