No. 341 - The Universal Presence of Sin


The Gospel of Christ 

The Universal Presence of Sin

Romans 5:12

"Therefore, just as through one man sin entered the world, and death through sin, and thus death spread to all men, because all sinned". 

Starting Prayer 

Dear Lord, as I meditate on today's message about the presence of sin in the world, open my heart to understand Your Word and the seriousness of sin. Help me to grasp the reality of sin's influence and its consequences. In Jesus' name. Amen.

Background 

Romans 5 is a powerful chapter that speaks about the contrast between the effects of Adam's sin and Christ's righteousness. The chapter reveals how sin entered the world through one man, Adam, and how death spread to all men because all have sinned. The verse for today, Romans 5:12, highlights the universal presence of sin in the world and its impact on humanity.

Be Encouraged 

Who among us can say they have never done something wrong, never failed to do what is right, or never had a selfish thought? The Bible makes it clear: "There is none righteous, no, not one…there is none who does good, no, not one…for all have sinned and fall short of the glory of God" (Romans 3:10, 12, 23). Sin has affected every person, leaving no one untouched by its influence. Even those who live moral lives are not exempt. The Bible teaches that if we break even one of God's commands, we are guilty of breaking the whole law (James 2:10-11).

But what about those who are ignorant of God's laws? The Bible is clear that ignorance is not an excuse before God. Even in times when people were less knowledgeable about His will, God did not overlook their sins. The tragic examples of Uzzah and the young prophet show that even good intentions cannot make up for disobedience (2 Samuel 6:6-11; 1 Kings 13:11-25). Therefore, no one, not even the best moral person, is without sin before God. This universal presence of sin means that everyone is in need of God's grace.

Application 

Sin's impact on humanity is severe and all-encompassing. The fact that all have sinned shows us the seriousness of our situation. But it also points us to our need for a Saviour. Jesus Christ came to free us from the bondage of sin and to offer us salvation. The Bible says, "For the wages of sin is death, but the gift of God is eternal life in Christ Jesus our Lord" (Romans 6:23). No amount of good works can erase the stain of sin from our lives; only Christ's sacrifice can do that.

As we reflect on the universal presence of sin, let us remember the hope we have in Christ. "But God demonstrates His own love toward us, in that while we were still sinners, Christ died for us" (Romans 5:8). This is the good news that we must embrace and share with others.

Invitation 

Dear friend, the reality of sin is serious, but the good news is that there is a solution—Jesus Christ. If you have not yet committed your life to Him, I encourage you to visit a nearby church of Christ to learn more about how to obey the gospel of Christ. Through faith (Hebrews 11:6), repentance from sin (Acts 2:38; 17:30-31), and baptism for the forgiveness of all past sins and your salvation (Mark 16:16; Acts 2:38), you can be added to the Lord's church, where you will continue to learn and follow Christ's commandments (Matthew 28:18-20; Acts 2:47). The invitation is open—accept it today, and let the love of God transform your life. Share this message with your loved ones, and let the truth of God's Word shine in your life.

Concluding Prayer 

Dear Father, thank You for the insight into the seriousness of sin and the hope we have in Christ. Help me to live in the light of Your truth and to share this message with others. In Jesus' name, I pray. Amen.

May the Lord bless your day.

 

Theodore J. Quist 

Evangelist 

Church of Christ 

Abokobi - Accra 

Ghana


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