Focal Passages: Romans 5:6-11, 18-21
One of the greatest threats facing the church in America is we have forgotten what it means to be helpless, lost and in need of a Savior. Have you ever been separated from your parents as a child?
Do you remember the fear that came over you as you realized your parents were no longer by your side? On the other hand, do you remember the extreme joy you felt when you were reunited with them?
I believe many Christians have forgotten what it is like to be completely desperate and separated from God. For example, if God’s love is so amazing, why do so many Christians act like it makes little difference in their lives? I believe it is because they do not rightly understand or have forgotten the depth of their sin and the grace that has been extended to them by Christ.
One of our focal verses for this lesson is Romans 5:8: “… but God shows his love for us in that while we were still sinners, Christ died for us” (ESV).
We need to remind each other that God loves sinners. In other words, Christ died for the ungodly which includes you and me.
We bring nothing of worth to the table when it comes to salvation. In fact, as I wrote in past lessons, our best efforts are filthy rags before the Lord. However, this teaches us that even at our worst, God still loves us. His love for us is not based on our own goodness, but on Christ’s finished work.
So, how can we experience that love in a more real and impactful way?
First, be honest with yourself. Pride can deceive your heart. If you think you’re special, that is a sign you are probably not.
Second, spend time meditating on the cross of Christ. The cross is where God’s love is most profoundly demonstrated. You will not regret it.
Finally, practice what you have been given, namely, unconditional love. Seek out the unlovely and smother them with love.