ONLY CHRIST'S ATONEMENT SATISFIES GOD

Today, Jews still observe Yom Kippur or the Day of Atonement. As the name suggests, it is a day set aside to make atonement for one’s sins. But for Christians, this beautiful feast points to Jesus and what He did for us on the cross. Because of His sacrifice, all our sins have already been perfectly atoned for. That is why, should we sin, we know that “we have an Advocate with the Father, Jesus Christ the righteous.” And He Himself is the propitiation for our sins.

Now, it does not say that if anyone repents, we have an Advocate with the Father. It says that if anyone sins, we have an Advocate with the Father. The moment a child of God sins, straightaway, his Advocate, Jesus Christ, goes into action to pray for and protect him.

What about repentance then?

The word “repentance” is metanoia in the Greek, which means to change one’s mind. For example, you used to believe that Jesus was just a good man. Then one day, you repented and believed that He is the Son of the living God, who died for your sins and rose again on the third day, and you gladly took Him as your Savior.

Bible repentance is not this idea of hitting or punishing yourself to atone for your sins. Don’t turn it into a human work, like the man who went to a priest to confess his sins. When they were done, the priest asked the man, “By the way, what do you do for a living?” The man replied, “I’m a contortionist,” and proceeded to give a demonstration. Another man came along wanting to confess his sins. When he saw the contortionist all twisted up on the ground, he said, “If this is repentance, forget it!” and ran off!

My friend, there is no need to climb the Himalayas or whip your back bloody to atone for your sins. No amount of self-punishment or crying can atone for them. Your sins have already been punished fully in the body of Jesus. Only His finished work satisfies God. So change your mind and simply believe that Jesus alone is the propitiation for your sins!  (Article & Picture; courtesy of Joseph Prince Ministries used with kind permission).

SPEAK OUT YOUR RIGHTEOUSNESS

But the righteousness of faith speaks.  Romans 10:6

Let me share something powerful with you about righteousness. In Romans 10:6, God’s Word tells us that the “righteousness of faith speaks”.

Now, what does this mean? It means that God encourages us to not just believe in our hearts that we are righteous, but to also speak it out!

So righteous one, declare your righteousness. Every day, boldly say, “Father, I thank You that I am righteous in Christ, not because of what I have done, but because of what Christ has done. It’s a gift and I receive it with all my heart.”

I believe that when you speak and declare your righteousness, good things happen. You become conscious of all the blessings and all the promises that are due the righteous. Instead of disqualifying yourself, you’ll start to believe God for good success, favor, and wisdom. Experiencing provision becomes effortless because you know your right standing in Christ. So stop disqualifying yourself and confess your righteousness!  (Article & Picture; courtesy of Joseph Prince Ministries used with kind permission).