“But the Scripture has concluded all under sin, that the promise of faith of Jesus Christ might be given to them that believe.”
Galatians 3:22
When we realize what we were before and what He’s done for us, how can we keep from “loving Him with all our heart,” going where He leads and doing what He says?
“All under sin.”
That’s the message of today’s Manna: Everyone is guilty. You’re guilty. I’m guilty. ‘Ole Joe, the butcher down the street is guilty. Aunt Sue is guilty. Grandma’s guilty. Your banker is guilty. Your doctor and dentist are guilty.
That’s not a popular or politically correct message.
But, it’s the Truth.
And, until one realizes it—and is convicted by it—there’s no hope.
The Greek word “sugkleio” is used here for “concluded” and means “to shut off together, enclose, boxed in, etc.” It’s the picture of captives herded into a locked room with no possible way of escape. And, like some sadistic captor who delights in others’ misery, the Law points its sharp finger at everyone and says “Guilty as charged!” Its look is stern and its sentence unwavering as the Day of Judgment approaches.
But, into that dark, dismal room of hopeless despair a Light shines (Jn. 1:5).
Suddenly, there comes a crashing at the door and One clothed in white with nail-scars in His Hands appears and says “You’re free! Come. Come with Me. You’re free to go!”
Beautiful picture?
Yes, beautiful indeed. But, this time, instead of the cavalry to the rescue, it’s Calvary (Gal. 3:23-29). Halleujah
Yet, interestingly, some refuse to leave the room.
You stare in disbelief as you start to walk out the door. At first, you laugh—thinking they’re just kidding. But, soon you realize they’re serious. They’re afraid to leave for fear of the unknown. But, even worse, they refuse to trust the One Who’s come to deliver them. And, they just sit there. . .in their chains. . .eating their hard, moldy bread and drinking their dirty water.
Oh, dear Pilgrim, this parody happens all the time. You’ve “been enlightened, tasted of the Heavenly Gift, become a partner of the Holy Spirit, tasted of the good Word of God and the powers of the world to come” (Heb. 6:4b-5) and can’t understand why others won’t readily want to experience them too—or will willingly fall away. But, do not let your perplexity lead you into despair (II Cor. 4:8).
Instead, stay in the Word and tremble. Fast and intercede. Woo and warn. Pray and plead. Many will still reject—but some will come to Him. Be faithful to sow the Seed wherever you go and leave the results up to God. The Holy Spirit will convict them; we simply must be faithful to point them. So, get up and be going—it’s Harvest Time (Jn. 4:35).
By Tom Smith Morning Manna Dated September 5, 2009
