Power In The Blood: Declining The Impotent Gospel

POWER IN THE BLOOD:  Declining The Impotent Gospel

By:  Julie Souza Bradley Lilly

“In him we have redemption through his blood, the forgiveness of sins, in accordance with the riches of God’s grace.” - Ephesians 1:7 NIV

Years ago, I had a conversation with someone about offensive words found in scripture.  I am not talking about unwholesome language, but words like sin, death, crucifixion, Hell and blood.

Some congregations had postulated that cultured people are offended by the graphic nature of these words, and a more diluted and sanitized gospel began to emerge.

All have sinned and fallen short of the glory of God. We are all aware of our sin, whatever we choose to call it.  We feel it’s weight and desperation.

We are not saved by a diluted and impotent gospel.  We are not saved by our good deeds, good thoughts or crossed fingers.

We are saved by the death of the sinless Son of God, who died as the sacrifice for sin.  We are saved by His blood that was poured out for you and for me—the love of God that endured scourging, insult and abandonment by the very ones He gave His life to save.

The enemy hates the blood of Christ.  The mere mention reminds him of his impending demise.  To dilute the truth plays into his plan to silence the hope that calls out to us from the blood and the empty tomb.

The Gospel does offend, beloved.  It’s beautiful brutality is offensive to those who are still in love with their sin.  But for those suffocating in their sin, those who are desperate for rescue and devoid of hope, it is the breath of life and an extended, nail-scarred hand that reaches out to snatch them from Hell.

“...I am not ashamed of the gospel, for it is the power of God for salvation to everyone who believes...” – Romans 1:16

Father, we decline any impotent gospel.  Bring us back to Your complete and unvarnished truth.  We embrace the work of the cross and the blood of Christ that saves us. Send us to the four corners of the Earth to spread the good news in its entirety.  May we leave nothing out and no one behind.  In Jesus’ Name ❤️

https://www.facebook.com/Prayers-of-a-Ragamuffin-Warrior-171515087035441/

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