Belong

Text: Romans 8:1-4

Theme: We are free from sin because we belong to Christ.

Key verses: “So now there is no condemnation for those who belong to Christ Jesus. And because you belong to him, the power of the life-giving Spirit has freed you from the power of sin that leads to death…God did what the law could not do. He sent his own Son in a body like the bodies we sinners have. And in that body God declared an end to sin’s controls over us by giving his Son as a sacrifice for our sins. He did this so that the just requirement of the law would be fully satisfied for us who no longer follow our sinful nature but instead follow the Spirit” (v. 1-4).

What God said to me: It’s a good thing you are not condemned. And it’s an even better thing that you belong to my Son. If anyone deserves condemnation you do. While granted that could be said of and to anyone, you of all people, Dwayne, know of my great sacrifice and why and how you shouldn’t walk in the flesh, pleasing yourself. I have forgiven you as you have confessed time and time again over the years for sins both of omission and commission. The sin that so easily besets you would have gotten the book thrown at you years ago by a less merciful judge. But…you belong to my Son–and that makes all the difference. When I look at your life, I see you through my Son. His blood covers your sins and his life flows through your veins. I cannot condemn you for anything you have ever done or will do. Why? Because you belong to Jesus. His body was broken and spilled out in your stead. He literally took your rightful place on the cross. Sin cannot demand control over you anymore. The requirements of my law you could not satisfy on your own. But…you belong to my Son. Thus, the law has been satisfied because of him–not because of anything you have done. But note this: The law can only be fully satisfied, as Paul put it, when you follow the Spirit. The full extent of the law requires you love me with your whole heart, soul and strength. You will never pull that feat off alone. You must be filled with the Spirit and obey me in everything. You must follow close to my Son.

What I said to God: Thank You, my Father and Lord and Savior and Redeemer. You have given me new life, abundant and eternal and free. I am once again amazed by Your love and your majesty. How could You love me so much? Thank You for loving my family too. I stand in awe of You. Thank You that I stand before You whole and accepted in the brethren as Your precious child. And thank You that it’s all because I belong to Jesus Christ Your Son.