Friends, let’s root these glorious Gospel truths deep in our hearts.
God has already declared us legally and perfectly righteous in Christ
“He (God) made Him (Jesus) who knew no sin to be sin on our behalf, so that we might become the righteousness of God in Him.” 2 Cor. 5:21 (NASB)
Most glorious and grace-full Jesus, what wondrous love is this, indeed! As my Substitute in life, you lived a perfect life of obedience, thus fulfilling every demand of the law for me. And as my Substitute in death on the cross, you completely exhausted God’s judgment against my sin. I am totally forgiven, perfectly righteous, and eternally free in you. Hallelujah, many times over! Take me deeper and deeper into the reality of this good news, Jesus.
By the work of the whole Trinity, we are washed, sanctified and justified
“You were washed, you were sanctified, you were justified in the name of the Lord Jesus Christ and by the Spirit of our God”. 1 Corinthians 6:11 (ESV)
Father, Son, and Holy Spirit—glorious Trinity, this one verse reminds me how the entire Godhead has secured my irrevocable, magnificent salvation. How astonishing, comforting, and humbling. Father, you washed and justified me, by the finished work of Jesus. And by the Holy Spirit, you set me apart for yourself, and my sanctification (my Christlikeness) is so certain, it can be spoken of in the past tense. I am undone with joy, filled with gratitude, and set free to love and serve you. “Thank you” seems such a trifling response. In Jesus’ name, I pray.
