Dig A Little Deeper: The Need for the Gospel

 




God created humanity inherently good, but our rebellion in the garden marked the beginning of our deserving of divine wrath. Despite the warning that sin would bring death, God, in his love for us, allowed a substitute to bear our sins' consequences. Genesis 3:21 reveals God's act of sacrificing an animal to cover the shame of our sin, postponing the consequence of death. Since then, we've depended on God's mercy to shield us from his wrath.

However, humanity's descent into sin continued relentlessly. We pursued the desires of our flesh, often embracing teachings that encouraged our sinful inclinations.


The Reality of God's Wrath

God's wrath is not a mere emotional reaction; it is an objective reality rooted in his holiness. The cross is a powerful reminder of God's justice, his commitment to uphold righteousness, and the price required for our redemption.

No Excuse

God's wrath is revealed against all forms of ungodliness and unrighteousness. Humanity's natural response is to suppress the truth, pushing it down because it convicts us of our sin. Just as people prefer darkness over light because their deeds are evil (John 3:19-20), we often reject the truth because it requires repentance. Ignorance becomes our refuge, allowing us to continue in sin while silencing those who challenge us.

Yet, there will be no room for excuses on the last day. God has made himself known through creation, the prophets, Christ's coming, the preservation of his written Word, and the proclamation of preachers. Ignorance will offer no refuge when we stand before God's judgment seat. The decision is clear: submission to Christ or rebellion.

Submission to Christ is the only path to salvation, as the consequences of sin are inescapable. Our sinfulness must lead us to repentance and faith in Christ, for there is no excuse for rejecting the offered redemption.

We Reap What we Sow

Ultimately, our destiny hinges on what we desire. Those who reject Christ will receive eternity without him, while those who submit to Christ will dwell in His presence eternally. God respects our choice and will honor our desires.


C.S. Lewis conveys this truth in The Great Divorce. He states that there are only two types of people: those who say, "Thy will be done" to God, and those to whom God eventually says, "Thy will be done." Hell consists of those who chose to reject God.


Therefore, salvation is available through Christ, as his sacrifice satisfied God's wrath at the cross. But those who embrace sin will be given over to it, experiencing its consequences fully. Man's rejection of God ultimately leads to his own destruction.

The Destructive Consequences of Sin Approval

In contemporary society, we see an increasing acceptance and celebration of sinful behaviors. What was once considered vile and despicable is now celebrated and promoted. The call to approve of sin grows louder, demanding compliance while silencing those who disagree.

However, believers must resist putting their stamp of approval on sin. The media we consume, the content we watch, and the messages we endorse matter. Christians are called to reject any form of entertainment that promotes sin.

Furthermore, we must remain vigilant against the normalization of sin within society. God's righteousness is revealed through the cross, and sin's penalty is death. Christ's sacrifice offers salvation, but it also compels us to turn away from sin and discourage its approval.




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