Counsel #1 — Finding Freedom From Guilt

Picture: Counsel #1 — Finding Freedom From GuiltCSL 91.1

What is our source of guilt? Sin!  And what is sin? “Everyone who sins is breaking God’s law, for all sin is contrary to the law of God.” 1 John 3:4 NLT Sin, iniquity, and transgression describe wrongdoing. Sin is the broadest term, meaning falling short of God's standard, His law. Transgression is a specific act of breaking a known rule. Iniquity is deeper, referring to a heart corrupted by repeated sin. Though not all sins are equal in the sight of God or humanity,^{[89]Steps to Christ, p. 30} all sin reveals our need for God's forgiveness and His strength to turn away from it.CSL 91.2

It’s true that we must continue to resist temptation until Jesus returns, but we can ask for a heart transplant! God will replace our corrupt hearts with Christ's divine heart.^{[90]2 Corinthians 13:5 and Galatians 4:6} This miraculous transformation, the core of the New Covenant, is the gospel's power and the purpose of Christ's atonement.^{[91]https://adventistreview.org/article/2201-46/}CSL 91.3

“So now, those who are in Christ Jesus are not judged guilty.” Romans 8:1 NCVCSL 91.4

“The only way to gain peace and joy is to have a living connection with Him who gave His life for us—who ever lives to unite His power with the efforts of those who are striving to overcome. This is the only means of obtaining true happiness.” Ellen White in In Heavenly Places, p. 33CSL 91.5

Reflect: How does the promise of freedom from guilt in Christ^{[92]Romans 8:1} encourage you to live a life of faith and obedience?CSL 91.6