No condemnation remains for those who are in Christ… So then, who condemns? No one. Christ Jesus who died–more than that, who was raised to life–is at the right hand of God and is also interceding for us (Rom. 8:1,34). Be careful then that you don’t “show contempt for the riches of his kindness, forbearance and patience” (Rom.2:4).
Jesus, in light of our Father’s great love, your finished work, and the Spirit’s ongoing witness to our “sonship” (Rom. 8:16), how dare we listen to the voice of the accuser, slanderer, liar? And maybe worse, how dare we claim to enjoy your acceptance and delight, yet dispense judgment and contempt—becoming the voice box for the devil himself? This contradicts the Gospel we relish, and the life to which you have called us.
Through our union with you, we live in God’s permanent favor and constant kindness. And all day and night long, you never stop interceding, advocating, and shepherding us. You know all the good, bad, and ugly about us; but you also know we are fully forgiven and robed in your righteousness—destined to be with you and like you (Hallelujah!). Therefore…
Therefore… it makes all the Gospel-sense in the world that we can trust you for the mercy, grace, and wisdom we need when mere mortals frustrate us, fail us—even greatly harm us. Nobody “gets a pass.” You’re not calling us to denial. We aren’t to empower fools. But Jesus, we know what you know… we dare not, we must not show contempt for the riches of your kindness by giving the opposite to others. Free us, Forgive us. Yes, it’s complicated at times, but help us love as you love us, period. So Very Amen.
