Not Guilty

There are so many accusations flying around. Every day another famous person is accused of misconduct or harassment or some other crime. There are so many accusations.

How many of those accusations are leveled against you? True or not, does it feel like you’re constantly on trial? Co-workers are quick to cast the blame on you. Family members refuse to forgive your failures. Former friends or partners are happy to drag your name through the dirt. And here’s the hardest part: At least some of it is true. You know it. You feel guilty in your heart. Accusations hurt.

Yet, the Bible asks, “Who will bring any charge against those whom God has chosen?” Well, it seems like all sorts of people are bringing charges against us, doesn’t it? No. Not in God’s court. The Bible continues, “It is God who justifies” (Romans 8:33). Since God has forgiven you, no one can charge you!

“Who then is the one who condemns?” Well, this person and this person seem to condemn us… No. Not in God’s court. Here’s the answer: “No one. Christ Jesus who died—more than that, who was raised to life—is at the right hand of God and is also interceding for us” (Romans 8:34).

Jesus is your defense attorney. When people accuse you, Jesus says, “I died for them. They are forgiven. Not guilty.” What a relief! No more accusations, at least not before God. God declares you “not guilty” by faith in Jesus.

Pastor Nathan