My dear sisters and brothers a very joyous and glorious Easter to you and your families. May the victory and blessings of the season be yours in full measure.
As we reflect on the crucifixion and resurrection of our Savior and Lord, Jesus Christ, I want us to contemplate the following: We affirm, “Christ died for our sins and rose for our justification.”
What does this mean? It means Christ died to redeem us from sin and death. His death is the ransom – payment - for our sins. Thus, His death is the only sufficient means for delivering us from sin and death.
Further to this, when believers are justified by faith, it implies that "their faith is counted for righteousness." Their faith does not justify them as a part, small or great, of their righteousness, but as the appointed means of uniting them to Christ who has chosen as the name whereby He shall be called, "the Lord our Righteousness".
Therefore, the basis of justification is what God did in the work of Christ in history, on the cross. The means of justification is how we get connected with that great work through faith. Both are crucially important, but the basis is most important of all.
Christian believers have been redeemed by the precious blood of Jesus Christ. As such we are freed from the burdens of sin and death, and through His glorious resurrection Christ has justified or made us right with Himself.
My brothers and sisters, have a happy Easter, and allow the Lord to possess you and direct you every step of the way.
Blessings!
Your Servant In The Master’s Business,
Telford D. Matthew (Rev.)