On Easter we celebrate the resurrection of Jesus Christ. I have to wonder what it was like that first Sunday after the crucifixion of Christ. The women were going to the tomb with no hope, yet Jesus was already raised from the dead. It reminds me that we have so many people today who are going about their lives with no hope, because they do not realize that Jesus has raised from the dead. Life can be difficult and at times overwhelming, but the reality of the resurrection brings hope and perspective to all who will turn to the Savior, and find forgiveness of their sins, and peace in their circumstances. Today, take a few moments and continue to reflect back on that first Sunday after the crucifixion, and recognize the hope and perspective that Jesus brings because of His resurrection from the dead.… READ MORE

As we continue to reflect on Romans 8:1-4, we see that the Bible is very clear that when a person trusts in Christ, they begin to walk by the Spirit the same instant. Christ wants us to know Him and to walk with Him moment by moment. It must be our desire as we walk with Him to become Spirit-determined believers. Because we are declared righteous, when we come to Christ, we have the ability to have the law fulfilled in us, because through the Holy Spirit we now have the power to do what the law expects us to do. The purpose of the gospel message is not to make us happy, but to make us holy. Interestingly genuine happiness comes to those who belong to Christ and are obedient to His will.… READ MORE

We deserve nothing but the condemnation of God for the rebellion of Adam. But in Romans 8:1-2 we see that because of His grace God has declared those who have a relationship with Christ, manifested by their walk in the Spirit, righteous. Justification completely and forever releases every believer from sin’s bondage and its penalty of death. The Key to every aspect of salvation is in the simple but infinitely profound phrase “In Christ Jesus” Being a Christian is not simply being outwardly identified with Christ but being part of Christ, not simply of being united with Him but united IN Him. The idea of being “in Christ” actually makes us apart of Him in ways that are unfathomable to us now. Those who believe in Jesus are delivered from the condemnation by submitting themselves to a higher law, that being the law of the Spirit of God that dwells within us. Obedience to God through the Law cannot save a person, but true salvation will always produce true obedience. The freedom that Christ gives is complete and permanent deliverance from sin’s power and penalty. It is the awareness of this present glorious liberty and freedom that is one of … READ MORE