Say Goodbye to Condemnation

Therefore, there is now no condemnation for those who are in Christ Jesus.

                                                            Romans 8:1

There are no words in all of Scripture more liberating than Paul’s simple, unequivocal declaration that there is no condemnation for those who are in Christ. Let’s take a closer look at the key words of this verse.

Therefore. In the first seven chapters of his letter to the Romans Paul has given the most detailed exposition of the gospel in all of Scripture. The word ‘therefore’ signals that Paul is going to reveal the glorious outcome of the gospel and it’s personal impact on our lives.

Now. Paul wants us to know he is not talking about the distant future or the afterlife. He’s talking about a present reality that begins the moment we receive the gospel.

No condemnation. Condemnation is that paralyzing sense of disapproval and judgment one feels upon being found guilty. Paul says there is to be none of that for those who are in Christ. The word ‘no’ is absolute. He doesn't say there may be some condemnation from time to time. He rules it out altogether.

This is vividly illustrated in the story of the woman caught in the act of adultery (John 8:1-11). The Scribes and Pharisees encircled her, stones in hand, breathing out anger and condemnation. When Jesus confronted them, saying, “Let him who is without sin among you be the first to cast a stone,” they walked away one by one. Turning to the distraught woman he said, “Has no one condemned you?” She replied, “No one, Lord.” And then he said: “Neither do I condemn you; go and sin no more.”

Can you imagine Christ speaking those words directly to you? Because that, in effect, is what Paul is saying in Romans 8:1.

This is the glorious outcome of the gospel. This is the gift Christ has for us here and now. Others might condemn us. We might even condemn ourselves. But Christ? Never. In him there is no condemnation. None.

Say goodbye to condemnation!