Jesus understood the
reality of sin. He was not some pie in the sky leader who believed His followers
would lead perfect lives. This chapter contains much about the reality of
sin.
First sin is a big deal in
God’s eyes. It may be inevitable for humans, but it is not inconsequential.
Check out verse 7-9, ….better to gouge out an eye or cut off a hand if it causes
you to sin than to face the consequences, which is an eternity in
hell….
And you certainly do not
want to be someone who causes another to sin. The word picture of a millstone
tied around you and being thrown into the sea (5-6) is frightening.
Sin is no trifling matter
to God!
Then if someone sins
against you… well, Jesus gives a prescription for restoration and forgiveness.
The implication is to restore our brother so that he does not forfeit his place
among God’s people.
Jesus nails His sin
teachings down with the story of the unmerciful servant. What God has done for
us (forgiven us), we must do for others (forgive others).
We are not free to harbor
resentment and unforgiveness when people sin against
us.
As I thought about all of
this, God kept reminding me that sin is very much a part of life. I must take
sin seriously. Avoid it at all costs. Confess it to the Lord when I do sin, and
make things right with others when I sin against them. And when people sin
against me, seek restoration…
This is a pretty heavy
load… but sin is not to be trifled with.
Lord,
forgiveness is an incredible gift.
The images of
burning in hell or being tied to a millstone and thrown into the sea are
frightening. Those punishments are what I deserve, yet thanks to Jesus what
should have been my sentence became His… the cross. Words fail me in expressing
my gratitude to You for the cross and all its blessings in my
life!
I am sorry
for my continuing sin. And for my ongoing forgiveness, I am eternally grateful.
Through Jesus, I pray. Amen.
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