Saturday, July 23, 2005
Luke 17:1-2 Then He said to the disciples, "It is impossible that no offenses should come, but woe to him through whom they do come! It would be better for him if a millstone were hung around his neck, and he were thrown into the sea, than that he should offend one of these little ones."
FORGIVEN SINNERS TAKE SIN SERIOUSLY!
Alcohol abusers who, by the grace of God, are no longer users, do not take the threat of the bottle lightly. They have experienced first hand the devastation and ruin this addiction visits upon health, lively-hood and family relationships. They are careful for themselves and for others where drink is concerned. They appreciate what they now have and do not want to see it go down the drain.
The grip of alcohol on people is so strong because its hold is physical, social, spiritual, emotional, and psychological all at the same time. Even worse is the grip of sin on the human heart and soul and life.
As Christians we, by the grace of God the Holy Spirit, know and believe that Jesus has set us free both from the sentence of death which we by our sins deserve -- and from the fearful hold with which sin grasps the sinner. "He breaks the power of cancelled sin."
As forgiven sinners we value most highly the faith-connection we have with Jesus Christ -- and we take very seriously indeed the threat of sin. For it's not just that we have so much to lose, we can never forget the price our Savior paid to set us free from sin, death and hell.
Ye who think of sin but lightly Nor suppose the evil great
Here may view its nature rightly, Here its guilt may estimate.
Mark the Sacrifice appointed, See who bears the awful load;
'Tis the WORD, the LORD'S ANOINTED, Son of Man and Son of God.
Yet as we gaze upon the Crucified it is not feelings of guilt which overwhelm us. Rather, we are moved by the love of our Lord who willingly went to the cross and beyond . . . for us.
Here we have a firm foundation; Here the refuge of the lost;
Christ's the Rock of our salvation, His the name of which we boast.
Lamb of God, for sinners wounded, Sacrifice to cancel guilt!
None shall ever be confounded Who on Him their hope have built.
(TLH 153:3-4)
