A Lasting Solution
Have you ever faced an enormous problem that didn’t have an immediate solution? Some problems in life take time to find proper resolution.
In Romans 3, Paul begins to introduce the solution to a massive problem—sin. Sin is an act of disobedience toward God’s commands. And because God is holy and does not sin, our sin separates us from a relationship with God.
Paul goes on to explain that every person has fallen short of God’s standard for living
—we have all sinned (Romans 3:23). All of us have been separated from God.
The solution to our problem is found in Jesus. Paul says that Jesus came as a representative on our behalf, and that His death atoned for our sin problem. This means that Jesus took care of the penalty that we deserved, and He made a way for us to have a relationship with God again.
All of this was made possible through his death and resurrection. Jesus provided a permanent solution to a very serious problem, and we can partake in this gift for free. There are no prerequisites or payments necessary—other than having faith in Jesus (Romans 10:9).
Jesus’ death and resurrection not only made atonement for our present sins, but for both our past and future sins as well. This demonstrates that God is still just in dealing with our sins, but He made a way for us through Jesus.
Are there past sins you are still holding onto that have been forgiven by God? Remember that Jesus paid for every single sin so that you could walk in freedom.
Jesus Does The Impossible
Jesus’ statement in Matthew 19:26 is often taken out of context. Many people have taken this verse to mean that they can do anything they want in life because God can do the impossible. Often this can lead to selfish prayers and a small view of God.
In order to understand what Jesus is saying, we should read the preceding verses. In Matthew 19:16-22, a young man comes to Jesus asking for eternal life. Jesus tells him that he must give up all of his earthly possessions—something the young man is not willing to do. Because he failed the test, the young man failed to inherit eternal life.
Jesus says in Matthew 19:23 that it is very difficult for a rich man to enter heaven. The point is that loving Jesus requires everything we are. Our ultimate love cannot be split between Jesus and something else.
The disciples then ask, “Who can be saved?” Jesus responds in Matthew 19:26 that it is impossible for man to save himself—but it is possible with God. God can do the ...