That You May Know

“These things I have written to you who believe in the name of the Son of God, so that you may know that you have eternal life.” 1 John 5:13

The reason many Christians lack joy is because they are not sure of their relationship with Christ. The Jews of Jesus’ day believed the only way they could be sure of their standing with God was by keeping the Law. It provided measurable evidence of their devotion.

However, Jesus offered a new theology, one based on God’s unconditional love and acceptance. The Jewish leaders were bound by the Law and refused to accept salvation as being a gift of grace. Imagine their dismay when Jesus told them that He was fulfillment of the Law.

Through Christ we have personal access to God the Father without bearing the burden of the Law and its consequences. Only grace secures our position with God. Jesus told Nicodemus: “You must be born again” (John 3:7). His words indicated a need for spiritual rebirth or regeneration. It is something human hands cannot achieve. There is nothing we can do to earn salvation. Salvation equals grace plus nothing.

The next time you are tempted to doubt your salvation, think of the Cross where grace paid the eternal price for all our sins. We are saved and sure by the power of His grace - nothing more, nothing less.

“Therefore, having been justified by faith, we have peace with God through our Lord Jesus Christ.” Romans 5:1