Two great things that happen when you put your faith in Christ

Written by Dan Lee on 30/05/2015
Series: Weekly Devotional
Tags: Cross, Forgiveness, God, Guilt, Jesus, Justification
“For God was in Christ, reconciling the world to himself, no longer counting people’s sins against them. And he gave us this wonderful message of reconciliation.” 2 Corinthians 5:19

The word “gospel” means “good news.” But the message about Jesus is not just good – it’s GREAT news! Many great things happen when someone puts their faith in Christ. Today’s scripture mentions two very important ones. Let’s take a look:

Reconciled: Reunited with God
“For God was in Christ, reconciling the world to himself . . .” (2 Corinthians 5:19a). Have you ever been in a broken relationship? It feels terrible when someone you love no longer wants to be your friend, or even considers you an enemy. This was our situation before we knew Christ. Everyone is born sinful; it is our natural state. (Ephesians 2:3) Our own sin made us God’s enemies, but in his wonderful grace, God offers us a chance to reunite with Him. Paul put it this way in Romans: “. . . our friendship with God was restored by the death of his Son while we were still his enemies.” (Romans 5:10)

Justified: Not Guilty
“. . . no longer counting people’s sins against them” (2 Corinthians 5:19b). Those who don’t know Christ are not only God’s enemies, but are considered guilty, and subject to eternal separation from God in hell. But through Christ’s death on the cross, those who have placed their faith in him are now justified -- that means you’re “not guilty” anymore, and you have been made righteous.

Think about the guilt of every wrong thing you have ever thought, said, or done—from envy to gossip to murder. What an enormous load of shame and guiltiness! Now think of the sin of the entire world – and how amazing it is that Jesus willingly took ALL of your guilt and replaced it with righteousness. Think of how wonderful it is to be declared “not guilty,” and the joy your friends and loved ones will feel when they experience this freedom.

Go For It: Tell People about Jesus!
These few things are great motivation to share about Jesus with others. Don’t let fear keep you from telling people. The reward is far greater than anything bad that might happen. May God bless you as you become “God’s Ambassador” to a lost and dying world.

Pray this week:
Father, help me to understand, deep in my heart, how wonderful it is to be reconciled with you, and declared “not guilty” of my sins. Fill my heart with joy, and give me a desire to share this good news that is greater than any obstacle.