Forgiveness of Sins
“Therefore, my friends, I want you to know that through Jesus the forgiveness of sins is proclaimed to you. Through Him everyone who believes is set free from every sin, a justification you were not able to obtain under the law of Moses” ~Acts 13:38-39
These verses are like the back of the book cover - a few sentences to give an idea of what it’s all about. I love when they draw you in - there is such a sense of anticipation to get lost in the pages (if you love books, that is…my husband not so much!). I get unreasonably peeved when the book doesn’t live up the hype. And I can’t seem to abandon ship - I HAVE to finish it, perhaps hoping it will get better.
So I just had to read this book (chapter 13:13-52) - Paul is preaching in the synagogue to the Jews who didn’t believe that Jesus was the Messiah. He was so gentle and encouraging, building up their anticipation to “see where it was going”. He starts out by making a connection with them, “Brothers, sons of the family of Abraham and those among you who are God-fearers, it is to us the message of this salvation has been sent.” He travels through the years from Moses to David to the cross. He places blame, but without condemnation. It is masterful. The Holy Spirit softened the hearts and opened the ears of the listeners so much that they begged Paul to return the following Sabbath. The expectation grew and almost the entire city showed up!
Paul was preaching freedom in Christ. For the Jew, freedom from the burden of the law of Moses. Freedom from offering animal sacrifices for every sin. For the Gentile, freedom from searching for truth from every street-preaching-philosopher, freedom from an aimless life of ‘drink eat and be merry’ or the agony of the unknowing. Freedom in this life as we await eternity in the Glory of God!
For God, who said, “Light shall shine out of darkness,” is the One who has shone in our hearts to give the Light of the knowledge of the glory of God in the face of Christ.” ~2 Corinthians 4:6
Have a blessed day!
Bonnie
Blessed Be Boutique
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