Theme of the Day: Rethinking The Solution To Sin
While not every religion uses the word “sin,” they all embrace the concept. Every religion acknowledges that mankind’s flawed attitudes or misguided actions are a source of pain, both now and potentially in eternity. So, every religion offers a solution: a set of laws, a moral code, a path to more enlightened behavior. What do they have in common? We are to solve sin through human effort. Be better! Try harder! This is the heart of every false religion. Those who correctly understand they will never overcome their sin are crushed by guilt. Those who ludicrously believe they have defeated their sin are killed by pride.
True religion offers a better way—one that frees us from guilt and has no room for pride. Jesus teaches that the solution to our sin is not to work harder. It is to trust in the work he has done for us. Salvation comes through Spirit-wrought faith in Christ.
John 3:14-21
Numbers 21:4-9
Ephesians 2:1-10
Psalm 32C
575 – By Grace I’m Saved
570 – God Loved the World So That He Gave
557 – Dear Christians, One and All, Rejoice
409 – Jesus, Refuge of the Weary
Prayer of the Day: Grant, O merciful Lord, to your faithful people pardon and peace that they may be cleansed from all their sins and serve you with a quiet mind; through your Son, Jesus Christ our Lord, who lives and reigns with you and the Holy Spirit, one God, now and forever.
Gospel Acclamation: For God so loved the world that he gave his one and only Son, that whoever believes in him shall not perish but have eternal life.