" GUILTY ! "

 

Romans 3:19-23 "Now we know that what things soever the law saith, it saith to them who are under the law: that every mouth may be stopped, and all the world may become guilty before GOD. Therefore by the deeds of the law there shall no flesh be justified in HIS sight: for by the law is the knowledge of sin. But now the righteousness of GOD without the law is manifested, being witnessed by the law and the prophets; even the righteousness of GOD which is by faith of JESUS CHRIST unto all and upon all them that believe: for there is no difference: for all have sinned, and come short of the glory of GOD;"

     The case is on the docket; the evidence is presented; the jury reaches a decision; the judge issues the verdict loud and clear as his gavel sounds, and he intones "guilty." That is not a word we delight in proclaiming, especially when it pertains to us personally. Due to a traffic violation, I recently had to sign my name on a line indicating I was pleading guilty to that particular infraction of the law, and I would pay my fine, even though it was certainly never my intention to break the law.

     While it is humbling to admit to violating a traffic law, it is of a far more serious nature to realize and admit to the violation of GOD's Law -- an infraction that has eternal consequences as opposed to merely having to pay a fine. In verse nineteen, Paul noted man's guilt before GOD, the JUDGE of all mankind: "Now we know that what things soever the law saith, it saith to them who are under the law: that every mouth may be stopped, and all the world may become guilty before GOD." We are all guilty of the transgression of GOD's Law. Every person on the earth, according to GOD's WORD, stands guilty before the LORD, worthy of death and eternal separation from HIM in the Lake of Fire.

     We could do nothing to change the verdict. We were found guilty in GOD's court of Law. None of us can legitimately plead "not guilty" before GOD, the RIGHTEOUS JUDGE. Guilty ! Yes, we are all guilty before a thrice holy GOD ! "But GOD, Who is rich in mercy, for HIS great love wherewith HE loved us, even when we were dead in sins, hath quickened us together with CHRIST, (by grace ye are saved)" (Ephesians 2:4-5). What wondrous love is this ! Guilty sinners can find redemption through CHRIST JESUS. JED

Your servant in CHRIST,

Julie

Copyright, FEATURE: A Daily Bible Study Guide.

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