Have you ever felt like you’re just going through the motions in life? Maybe you feel like you’re stuck on a shelf, preserved but not really living. You’re not alone. Many of us feel this way, but there’s good news: Jesus changes everything.
In our recent sermon series on Romans, we’ve been exploring how Jesus rescues us from sin and death, and how He transforms our lives. Today, we’re diving into Romans 5:1-8 to uncover the incredible truth that Jesus came to rescue us, not just from our sins, but from a life of emptiness and despair.
The Timing of Jesus’ Rescue
When Jesus came to earth, the timing was perfect. The world was in chaos, and people were looking for a savior. But Jesus didn’t come as a warrior king to overthrow the Romans; He came as a Savior to rescue us from sin and death. Romans 5:8 tells us, “But God shows his love for us in that while we were still sinners, Christ died for us.”
Think about that for a moment. While we were still sinners, Jesus died for us. He didn’t wait for us to clean up our act or get our lives together. He came right into our mess and offered us a way out. This is the essence of the Gospel: Jesus rescues us when we need it most.
Transformed Through Trials
One of the most powerful aspects of Jesus’ rescue is how it transforms us through our trials. Romans 5:3-4 says, “Not only that, but we rejoice in our sufferings, knowing that suffering produces endurance, and endurance produces character, and character produces hope.”
It’s easy to think that following Jesus means a life free from problems, but that’s not the case. In fact, our trials and sufferings are opportunities for growth. They build our character and deepen our hope in Christ. James 1:2-3 echoes this sentiment: “Consider it pure joy, my brothers and sisters, whenever you face trials of many kinds, because you know that the testing of your faith produces perseverance.”
God Gives Us What the World Cannot
The world offers many things, but it cannot give us true peace. Romans 5:1 says, “Therefore, since we have been justified by faith, we have peace with God through our Lord Jesus Christ.” This peace is not something we can earn; it’s a gift from God.
Jesus said in John 20:21, “Peace be with you. As the Father has sent me, even so I am sending you.” This peace allows us to live free from the pressure of trying to earn God’s love. It’s a peace that surpasses all understanding and fills our hearts with joy and hope.
Conclusion
So, what’s holding you back today? What’s keeping you on the shelf, preserved but not really living? Jesus came to rescue you from sin and death, to give you a life full of purpose and joy.
Take a moment to reflect on your life. Are you living in the freedom that Jesus offers, or are you still stuck in the motions? If you’ve already accepted Christ, it’s time to live the life He wants for you—one that’s full of peace, joy, and purpose. If you haven’t, it all starts with surrender. Open your heart to Jesus and let Him transform your life.
Prayer
Dear Jesus, thank You for rescuing us from sin and death. Thank You for offering us a life full of peace, joy, and purpose. Help us to surrender our lives to You and to live in the freedom that only You can provide. Transform our trials into opportunities for growth and deepen our hope in You. Amen.
