“There is therefore now no condemnation for those who are in Christ Jesus.” Romans 8:1 ESV
In Romans chapter 7, Paul discusses the Torah and its importance. God gave the law as a standard for living righteously--a moral compass. Paul explains that the issue is not in the law itself but in our inability to live by the law as imperfect people constantly struggling with sin (death). Verses 7:24-25 sets the stage for today’s scripture, “Wretched man that I am! Who will deliver me from this body of death? Thanks be to God through Jesus Christ our Lord! So then, I myself serve the law of God with my mind, but with my flesh I serve the law of sin.”
Paul then continues offering these comforting words in today's verse, “There is therefore now no condemnation for those who are in Christ.” The term “now” began that moment Jesus freely offered himself–the pure and sinless sacrifice–in atonement for our sins. However, “now” also means at this moment, right now! All those sins we’ve been lugging around--even those we’re unaware of--are covered by His blood. Every time we come, earnestly and humbly seeking forgiveness, we are assured that Jesus’s gracious gift of salvation fulfills what kept us incomplete under the law.
Lord, thank you for the gift of your Son who offered himself for our sins that we may be complete in the law. Help us today remember the love and price of that gift and rejoice in its deliverance. Forgive us our sins, and grant us joyful and obedient hearts. Lead us in the ways of righteousness. We pray this in the name of Jesus. Amen.
Blessings,
Pastor Tim
