Forgiveness

How often it seems headlines have announced that some “Christian” has been accused of doing something wrong or admitted to making mistakes. Some skeptics laugh, concluding that these examples discredit the Gospel.

In fact, the opposite is true. The Bible tells us that “all of us have sinned.” Every Christian, and non-Christian. Every pastor and teacher. The young and old. Every man and woman. The Bible even says that “there is no one who does good, not even one” (Psalm 14:3). Whether or not our sins become headlines, in fact, all of us make mistakes and fall short of God’s glory.

In fact, “if we say that we have no sin, we are deceiving ourselves and the truth is not in us.” What is different is that we have turned to Jesus for forgiveness! It is a forgiveness so total and wonderful that we want to share it with everyone! For “if we confess our sins, He is faithful and righteous to forgive us our sins and to cleanse us from all unrighteousness” (1 John 1:8-10).

As he thought about his life, Paul realized “that Christ Jesus came into the world to save sinners, among whom I am foremost of all” (1 Timothy 1:15). Yes, Paul thought he was the “foremost” of all sinners!

He also realized that “we have this treasure in earthen vessels.” We are “afflicted,” “perplexed,” and “struck down.” Through our imperfections, we turn to Jesus. Our experiences help us realize that the “treasure” is not of us. We learn that He is perfect. As we depend on Him, we realize that “the surpassing greatness of the power will be of God and not from ourselves” (2 Corinthians 4:7-11).

If you have sinned, turn to God. Confess your sins. And accept His forgiveness. Declare your freedom. And let others know that Jesus saves. That He forgives.