Crime and Punishment

Scott Beyer
07/12/23 - Bulletin

“Blessed are those whose lawless deeds have been forgiven and whose sins have been covered!” (Romans 4:7)

Sin requires that we await the consequences.  Every crime requires punishment.  We cannot cry for God to be just and fair and then expect Him to overlook our wrongdoings.  There is a price for all sin.

But what if someone stepped in to pay it?  In Romans 4:7-8, Paul quotes from Psalm 32 to describe how blessed the man is who is redeemed from his sin, not because he did it all perfectly, but because of his faith in the Son of God.

Every crime requires punishment, so Jesus hung on a cross between criminals.  His suffering was done for us, so we no longer need to await the consequences.  His death brings hope instead of shame.

Matthew 4:4 #Biblebites

Today’s Reading: Romans 4:1-12

Questions to ask:

1. How is Paul feeling as he writes today’s passage? What is his mood?
2. What are the central themes in Paul’s preaching and teaching which are being emphasized, or how are the central themes in this epistle being emphasized in today’s reading?
3. How does our reading show Paul’s people skills, especially how he handles conflict?
4. What in this passage would change the lives of the believer(s) being addressed? How does it make me a better disciple?
5. How does this show the “good news” of the gospel? How can I share that with someone else?

This year, #Biblebites are following the life and writings of Paul.  If you would like a copy of the reading schedule, you can view it here: https://eastlandchristians.org/news-events/2023-vision

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