By David ReayThursday 3 Nov 2022LifeWords DevotionalsDevotionsReading Time: 2 minutes
Since we have been united with him in his death, we will also be raised to life as he was. We know that our old sinful selves were crucified with Christ so that sin might lose its power in our lives. We are no longer slaves to sin. For when we died with Christ we were set free from the power of sin. And since we died with Christ, we know we will also live with him. We are sure of this because Christ was raised from the dead, and he will never die again. Death no longer has any power over him. (NLT)
What can we say to someone who asks how they can stop sinning? We very likely have asked this question of ourselves. The short answer is that we cannot stop sinning in this mortal life. If that sounds overly negative, so be it. But it is a well experienced truth.
Our text today suggests we can overcome sin but note that it speaks of the power of sin. If we leave Jesus’ death and resurrection out of things, we are helpless captives to our egocentricity. Not that such people can never do any good: they can, and they do. But their life direction is constantly towards independence from God rather than dependence on him.
Once we trust in Jesus for grace and mercy, it is as if the prison door has been opened and we can enjoy the fruits of freedom. Of course, we can curl up in our prison cell and not enjoy the freedom, but it is ours in principle. The same Paul who wrote of freedom from the power of sin, in the very next chapter of his letter spoke of the frustration he felt as he himself battled with sin in his life.
In relationship with Jesus, I can fight back against the power of sin. I will win some and lose some, but I am set free to fight. When I lose, it doesn’t mean I cease to be a Christian, it just means I am a fallible human.
Jesus’ death for us has set us free from the penalty of sin. Jesus’ indwelling presence helps us in our struggle to be free from the power of sin. And Jesus’ resurrection assures us that one day we will be free from the very presence of sin. Look forward to that day!
Blessings
David