Freedom from Sin

Romans 1:18-27

The wrath of God is being revealed from heaven against all the godlessness and wickedness of men . . .
(Rom. 1:18)

 

WILLIAM WILBERFORCE FOUGHT for many years during the nineteenth century to bring a legal end to the British transatlantic slave trade. During his long struggle, Wilberforce visited his old pastor John Newton, who had been the captain of a slave ship prior to his conversion to Christ. Wilberforce wanted Newton to give a public account of his slave ship days. At first Newton refused because, in his words, twenty thousand ghosts haunted him. Later, however, he gave a detailed account of his career, including records, ship papers, and the names of those involved. "You must use this," he urged Wilberforce, "because my memory is fading. There are just two things I remember clearly: I am a great sinner and Christ is a great Savior!" Newton's records helped Wilberforce bring an end to the British slave trade. Men finally agreed that slavery wasand isterrible. While our sins may not seem as heinous as does slavery, they are no less terrible. All sin is rebellion against God. Thankfully, we have been given the opportunity to respond to God's offer of salvation and to reject sin. We can choose to live lives of transparent righteousness so that God will be glorified in spite of sin's awful curse.

 

Ted Simonson

 

When tempted in a small way, name the sin aloud.