The church I attended as a boy, and for 50 years, introduced me to God but not the Bible. There were many do’s and don’ts, and being human I slipped up - a lot. My church taught me that my sins, my weaknesses were displeasing to God, and that I had to confess everything. I was taught that I had to do this, and had to do that; “works” was the key to being saved.

But there’s nothing I can do to be saved. My righteousnesses are “as filthy rags”. (Isaiah 64:6)

I was on a roller coaster, feeling guilty most of the time, and feeling somewhat condemned. I believed I was not really good - at least not good enough.

Then I was introduced to a Bible believing church, and experienced new life. I accepted Jesus as my Lord as well as my Savior. There wasn’t as much guilt and condemnation as before, but it was still there.

Just two years ago my son gave me a book, and said, “Dad, this will change your life”. He was right, it did.

The author of the book preaches the Gospel of Grace. It has renewed my enthusiasm, and helped me to shed guilt and condemnation. I became the beneficiary of what Jesus said, “Therefore if the Son makes you free, you shall be free indeed”. (John 8:36)

The author’s Gospel of Grace isn’t new; it’s what Paul preached, but I think Paul is harder to understand.

My former church, like many denominations, preached a mixture of Old Testament Law with New Testament Grace. It sounds reasonable that we still have to obey the Ten Commandments and “be good”, but Jesus gave us a New Commandment, which encompasses all the others: Love God, love your neighbor. (John 13:34-35)

I am no longer under the Law, but under Grace, the unearned, unmerited, undeserved favor of God.

Unlike many churches, God doesn’t mix Law and Grace. Why?

By Jesus’ death on the Cross, He fulfilled all of the righteous requirements of the Law. When He cried out “It is finished!” the requirements of Old Testament Law were satisfied. His blood paid the price for all sins, past, present, and future, for those who believe.

At that moment, the veil of the temple was torn from top to bottom, providing access to the Holy Place, where moments before it would cost your life to enter through the veil.

Jesus took my guilt and punishment so that I wouldn’t have to. I can enjoy His Grace. When I sin, I know that I have already been forgiven! Jesus finished a perfect work. His blood has cleansed us once, for all. (Hebrews 10:12-14)

“My friend, the main reason our Savior’s blood was shed, was for the forgiveness of our sins. This means that the blood of Jesus also offers us protection from any form of condemnation. When you have a revelation that Jesus’ blood has made you righteous and that all your sins are forgiven, you are protected from condemnation from the accuser. It’s imperative that you understand this because it will give you the confidence to go before the throne of God boldly and see Him as a loving father. It will cause you to reign over that sin, addiction, or depression that is holding you in bondage today.” (Destined to Reign, Joseph Prince, P 159.)

“Your inheritance today is no longer guilt, punishment, and condemnation for your sins, but righteousness, peace, and joy through Jesus Christ. He has already done it all on your behalf. Your part is simply to believe and receive [emphasis mine]. (Rom 5:17)That is how you walk in victory over sin, addictions, negative thoughts, and every cycle of defeat that has you in bondage. That is the Gospel of Jesus Christ!” (Destined to Reign, Joseph Prince, P 168.)

Perhaps now you’ll understand why I constantly emphasize the importance of what one believes. That’s all God asks of us - to believe.

Unbelief is at the root of all the misery, corruption, strife, and degradation our society has to offer.

WOB D WOD (What One Believes, Determines, What One Does)

The best way to start the New Year is to believe Him and receive His gift of no condemnation.

THE JOY OF THE LORD IS YOUR STRENGTH (Neh 8:10)
You can reach Mr. Murphy at willmurf1@yahoo.com
www.murphy-properties.com