| Yesterday's Bible Study |
In this verse from 1 Timothy, Paul emphasizes that Jesus is the only mediator between us and the Lord. There is no other god or path to salvation; Jesus has atoned for our sins and we need Him to be saved. This verse reminds us of the power of Jesus to mediate between us and the Lord, as well as the exclusivity of salvation.
Sometimes, people disagree with the doctrine that salvation comes through Jesus alone. Many popular figures suggest that people can get to heaven by believing in any god or through being a "good person." However, this is not true because it suggests that we do not need Jesus. Any proposed way to heaven that does not include the atoning working of Jesus on the cross is a false gospel.
When we understand why we need Jesus as our salvation, the doctrine begins to look anything but exclusive. All humans were dead in sin; none of us could approach the Lord, a Holy God, because we had defiled ourselves. We could not get forgiveness for that sin; the only appropriate payment for it was death. When Jesus died for us, He took on the blame for our sin and died an innocent death. |
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By shedding His blood for us, the price of our sin was paid, and forgiveness became available to everyone. Anyone could ask for forgiveness and receive it; there were no exceptions to the rule. Thus, Christianity offers a way forward for anyone who seeks Him. No one is excluded.
Because of Jesus, we can have a relationship with the Lord. When we call out to Him to forgive us for our sins, He cleanses us with His righteousness. At the same time, if we do not call out to the Lord, asking Him to save us, Jesus will not mediate on our behalf. We must take the initiative, recognizing that we need the Lord to save us.
Today, reflect on the grace that the Lord has shown you. Think about Jesus, who loved you so much that He was willing to die so you could have the opportunity to be forgiven. Rejoice in the fact that Christianity is open to everyone who calls on the name of the Lord!
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