GOD PROMISES TO NEVER CONDEMN US
Therefore, there is now no condemnation for those who are in Christ Jesus. Romans 8:1
I quote this a lot, both in my teaching and counseling. I also remember it when I sin. These words begin what is perhaps the most outstanding chapter in what is perhaps the most outstanding book in the Bible – Romans. Having laid out the need and provision of salvation in Romans 1-7, Paul shows the difference Christ makes in a life, starting with no judgment on us or for us.
Paul uses the strongest Greek possible to emphasize that there is absolutely, irrevocably, and completely “NO” verdict of sin coming against us any time ever. We may still suffer the natural consequences of sin in this life, but the eternal guilt and punishment are forever gone. Paul, who persecuted the church and killed Christians, is the very one writing this. This promise must have meant a lot to him personally.
Satan’s lies tell us that we aren’t forgiven, we are too bad to be with God, He is done with us and it is too late for us. Lies, every one a lie. There is NO condemnation!!! Satan can’t take away our salvation, but he can take the joy of it when we live under a cloud of guilt and shame.
Paul killed Christians, but was forgiven. David was a murderer and adulterer, and was also forgiven. Peter denied the Lord three times, but was restored. None of God’s people face judgment for sin, because Jesus took that punishment and paid the price for our sin.
Sometimes it can be hard to accept God’s forgiveness and to forgive ourselves. God doesn’t condemn us, but we condemn ourselves. It may be done out of feelings of worthlessness, or it could be pride that keeps us from wanting to admit our sin. But when we do this, we cut ourselves off from the source of joy on our own, no help from Satan needed. If you struggle with this read Psalm 103.
Remember, since God doesn’t condemn us, we shouldn’t be condemning each other. If God has forgiven a person, who are we to withhold forgiveness? If God doesn’t place them under guilt, how can we do so. If they are forgiven, restored and unconditionally loved by God, how can we do anything less?
Do you know why there is no condemnation on us? It’s because Jesus took all of it on Himself. It’s all been paid for, so there is no reason for us to condemn ourselves. Now He is in heaven interceding for us (Romans 8:34) and, as our advocate, defending us when Satan says we deserve condemnation for our sin (1 John 2:1).
Do you put yourself under condemnation, or do you accept God’s wonderful gift of forgiveness?
Do you put others under judgment for that which God has forgiven them?