41. No condemnation
Romans 8:1 There is therefore now no condemnation to them which are in Christ Jesus, who walk not after the flesh, but after his Spirit.
Those who are in Christ Jesus walk after the Spirit, not after the flesh. In other words, they believe in Jesus. For them the wonderful promise is now in effect: there is now no condemnation. Our sins deserved condemnation; I am a lost and condemned sinner. This is the true and undeniable verdict. But in Christ there is no condemnation for me. Jesus took my deserved condemnation on to Himself on the cross; Jesus Christ is damned in my place, thereby setting me free from a justly deserved condemnation. I admit it; repentance means: “I admit it.”
I also admit that there is no condemnation for me since I am in Christ. I believe the Gospel. God does not condemn me; He acquits me; He not only declares me innocent but He also declares me righteous. By nature I am condemned; by grace I am acquitted. My confession and faith agrees with both truths. I admit my sin and condemnation, but I also admit God’s grace and not guilty verdict. I am forgiven; therefore, I am not condemned.
The practical truth for my takeaway is this: I will not condemn myself, I will not let others condemn me, I will not condemn others. Living life with family and friends without gossip, criticism and condemnation will be much more enjoyable. Furthermore, when I hear others condemning me I will not condemn myself nor let myself be condemned; I believe there is no condemnation. Thus I will not have to be offended nor will I need to offend others with words. I am in continual need of welcoming acceptance and warm regard, and this is what God promises.
Condemnation basically signifies eternal punishment and death, condemned to the lake of fire. The refreshing promise of no condemnation comforts me with the sure hope of eternal life in place of eternal death. Secondarily, condemnation also means the criticisms and offenses I hear from people in the world. No more.