Now we know that whatever the law says, it says to those who are under the law, so that every mouth may be silenced and the whole world held accountable to God. Therefore no one will be declared righteous in his sight by observing the law; rather through the law we become conscious of sin. But now a righteousness from God, apart from law, has been made known, to which the Law and the Prophets testify. This righteousness from God comes through faith in Jesus Christ to all who believe. There is no difference, for all have sinned and fall short of the glory of God, and are justified freely by his grace through the redemption that came by Christ Jesus.
Romans 3:19-24
Accountable, but Paid in Full!
Last month Reuters News Agency published bank survey results indicating, "Americans' debt level reached a record high this year, surpassing the peak touched just as the worst of the recession was taking hold in 2008." It also reported that although mortgage debt represents a smaller share of overall indebtedness, "Taking over the slack has been student loans…, as well as auto loans." Indebtedness is serious. Debtors are held accountable for their debt. The burden of debt can be destructive.
Today's Bible verses identify a far more destructive indebtedness for which "the whole world (is) accountable to God!" Every person conceived on this earth, except Jesus, has inherited a debt and added to it with the imperfections of thoughts, words, and actions! We are "accountable to God" for all of it!
God's word does not use society's euphemisms for our imperfections. We're not just "making mistakes" or exhibiting "poor judgment." "Through the law we become conscious of sin." The holy law of God requires righteousness, perfection, from all mankind. That's impossible for us! Our excuses are "silenced" and a "settling of accounts" is required!
Graciously, there is a "righteousness from God," a free gift provided by his amazing love. Scriptures proclaim that "If we confess our sins, [God] is faithful and just and will forgive us our sins and purify us from all unrighteousness" (1 John 1:9). God is faithful. He keeps his promises. God is just. Jesus, the Son, has paid the debt in full for all mankind by his life, death and resurrection. That's the Bible's teaching of redemption. Thus, God declared sinners acquitted, God justified sinners by his grace through Jesus' merits. "This righteousness from God comes through faith in Jesus Christ to all who believe."
What glorious confidence Jesus brings! On our way through the trials of this life (even student loans), we remain certain of inheriting the precious gift of heaven. "Accountable?" Yes. "Paid in full?" Yes. That's the real motivation to live every day to the honor of his holy Name!
Prayer:
Lord Jesus, help me live day by day, knowing that I am accountable, but that you have paid my debt in full! Amen.
All Scripture quotations, unless otherwise indicated, are taken from the Holy Bible, New International Version®, NIV®. Copyright ©1973, 1978, 1984 by Biblica, Inc.™ Used by permission of Zondervan. All rights reserved worldwide.
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