“[You have] been set free from sin.” —Romans 6:22
Imagine for a minute that you committed a crime, were arrested, and were put in jail. The day has now come for you to appear in court.
As you stand before the judge, there is absolutely no doubt: you are guilty of the charges against you. According to the law, you must pay for this crime, and in this case the penalty is a year in jail. The judge issues his verdict and pronounces your sentence. At once the bailiff comes over to lead you away to prison.
But then something almost beyond belief happens. The judge steps down from the bench, stops the bailiff, and takes your place. He is innocent—but he goes to prison and pays the penalty for the crime you committed. You, on the other hand, are free!
This is a picture of what Jesus Christ did for you and me. We are guilty before God and deserve nothing less than death. But the judge—Jesus Christ—took our place. By His death on the cross, He took the penalty we deserve, and we are free. Sin’s penalty has been fully paid. Believe it!
What a price You paid, Lord, so we could be free! Thank You for Your example of extravagant love and sacrifice. May we live with an appreciation and awareness of the freedom we’ve been given.
BGM
