No Condemnation

Introduction

People have a natural fear of unknown future tragedies that may affect them or their loved ones. The uncertainty and unpredictability of life can create fear and unease as individuals think about the possible difficulties and challenges they may encounter. This fear stems from our innate need for stability and security, as we strive to protect ourselves and ensure our future well-being.

The anticipation of potential tragedies can be overwhelming, causing anxiety and worry about what lies ahead. However, the greatest tragedy of all is the judgment of God both now and in the future. Through Christ, we can be certain that this will not happen to us anymore. Therefore, there is now no condemnation for those who are in Christ Jesus, and we can be certain that we are completely safe in God's great universe, even though there are many uncertainties in the future.

There are three reasons why we can be certain that we are safe now and into the future.

Three Reasons

We are now righteous before God. (Romans 8:1-4)

“No condemnation” does not mean that we will go up to heaven now. It means that we are now, in this life, righteous before God. Sin no longer separates us from God because He dealt with sin once and for all on the cross when Jesus died. Therefore, the full blessings of being right before God are now ours through Christ (see Deuteronomy 28).

We are now pleasing to God. (Romans 8:5-8)

Those who live in the flesh, having their minds set on the things of the flesh, cannot submit to God’s law, and therefore cannot please God. In contrast, we who live by the Spirit, having our minds set on the things of the Spirit, are now pleasing to God. Therefore, we can expect God’s blessings upon our lives now and in the future.

We are now indwelt by God. (Romans 8:9-11)

The Spirit of God now lives in us. Therefore, God Himself is dwelling in us just like He did in the Tabernacle and later in the Temple. We are now the Temple of the Holy Spirit. God’s presence, power, and purpose can now be manifested in our lives.

Conclusion:

1. Turning Point: "God's acceptance now gives us assurance for the future."

2. Even though there are a lot of uncertainties in the future, we can be certain that God accepts us now because of Christ. We are no longer under condemnation. Instead, God’s blessings are upon us everyday of our lives.

3. Whenever you are anxious about the future, remember that God has already accepted you in Christ. You are safe in His great universe both now and forever!

Discussion:

1. Reflecting on Romans 8:1-4, what significance does "no condemnation" hold for our daily lives as believers? How does understanding our righteousness before God impact our perspective on the challenges and uncertainties we face?

2. In Romans 8:5-8, the contrast between living in the flesh versus living in accordance with the Spirit is highlighted. How can we practically align our minds with the things of the Spirit in our daily routines? What are some tangible steps we can take to live in a manner pleasing to God?

3. The concept of being indwelt by God (Romans 8:9-11) speaks of God's presence within believers. How does this truth change the way we view ourselves and others? In what ways does recognizing the Holy Spirit's presence in our lives influence our actions and interactions with the world?

4. The sermon emphasizes God's acceptance of us now, providing assurance for the future. How does this assurance impact our response to fear and anxiety about the unknown future? Can you share personal experiences where this assurance helped overcome moments of anxiety?

5. The sermon concludes with the statement, "God's acceptance now gives us assurance for the future." How can we practically remind ourselves daily of God's acceptance and the absence of condemnation? What practices or habits can help reinforce this truth in our hearts and minds during uncertain times?