Romans 4:5 But to him that worketh not, but believeth on him that justifieth the ungodly, his faith is counted for righteousness (KJV)
Romans 4:5 But to the one who does not work, but believes in Him who justifies the ungodly, his faith is credited as righteousness, (NASB)
This is one of those concepts that is difficult for the human heart to grasp. That's why we have so many people who are unregenerated, lost, and undone without a relationship with the Living and True God today. We (especially in the West) have an entitlement mentality. We are always pleading for the powers-that-be to "give us what we deserve." We are a people that demand our rights. I can say without reservation, that I'm glad God doesn't (and hasn't to this point) given me what I truly deserve.
The recent case with Andrea Yates and the murder of her children has caused quite a stir in the news and within Christian circles. Regardless of your opinions about this particular case, I think you would admit that it's difficult at times to see the guilty "go free." Human nature demands that justice be served. Again, I readily admit that I have the same tendencies. When I watch a drama, play, or a movie- I expect (and rejoice when it happens) the bad guy to get what he deserves.
Grace operates on another level however. A person who places their faith in Christ is justified on the basis of what Christ has done- not on the basis of what they deserve! As much as Satan surely loves it when people are in bondage to drugs, alcohol, and other perversions- I'm inclined to believe that he loves it just as much (if not more) when people believe that they are accepted by God on the basis of their good works. It is said in scripture that Saul had slain his thousands, and David his ten thousands (I Sam 18:7/21:11/29:5). Perhaps this is a poor analogy, but in the final equation- the so-called "gospel" of good works may end up slaying more in the end than all vices combined.
I'm beginning to understand more and more the heart cry of Paul the Apostle found in Philippians:
Philippians 3:9 And be found in him, not having mine own righteousness, which is of the law, but that which is through the faith of Christ, the righteousness which is of God by faith: (KJV)
So as you finish reading this blog today, why not pause for a moment and thank the Good Lord that He hasn't given us what we truly deserve!
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