"and he died for all, that they that live, should no longer
live unto themselves, but unto him, who for their sakes,
died and rose."
2 Corinthians 5:15
The book of Genesis tells us of the entrance of sin into the world.
It shows that Satan lied to Eve when he contradicted God's Word.
It records the appeal: "you shall be as God, knowing good and evil."
The desire to be "as God" was rebellion. It is still our problem today.
Many of us who profess Jesus, fail to see our problem.
A multitude of ideas, emphases, and solutions are set forth in his name.
Different biblical teachings are said to offer the Way unto the Father.
But the source of our separation from God is repeatedly overlooked.
Perhaps we continue to miss the source is that it is unresolved.
The desire to be "as God" broke the relation between God and man.
It is this relationship that needs to be restored. Rebellion must end.
Even a correct understanding of the meaning of Scripture cannot restore
the relationship of our Creator as Lord over us
Our self-will and our inexcusable pride must be broken.
What can do this for us?
Only seeing the obedient Son, surrendered dying a horrible death for us.
The cross was intended by God to break our hearts.
Only when Jesus crucified is declared, will self-will be repeatedly broken .
Only as self-will is broken, will we be changed by the power of his death .
Churchmen of every name may boast in our distinctives.
They are diversions.
Only seeing the crucified will pierce our heart and crush our will -
lead us to surrender - painful, unique, overwhelming.
This alone reflects his death for us.
Surrender is the only authentic response to his death upon the cross.
How long will we satisfy ourselves with our actions and refuse his reign?
God will cast down all our reasoning and bring every thought into captivity to the obedience of His Son.
The Lord is longsuffering with us all, that we may come to repentance.
"A broken and contrite heart O God, You will not despise." Psalm 51:17
"Nothing in my hand I bring, simply to thy cross I cling." - A.M. Toplady