A Brand Snatched from the Fire

We often do not fail through ignorance, but through choice. We know what we should not do, and yet for a moment it is pleasurable, and we do it anyway. What follows is not indifference but misery — regret, shame, and the terrible feeling that we are hypocrites.
Zechariah’s vision of Joshua the high priest, clothed in filthy garments while the accuser stands beside him, speaks directly into this place. God does not deny the filth, but He silences the accuser and clothes Joshua anew. The verdict comes before the instruction. Grace comes before change. And because of that, there is now no condemnation for those who are in Christ Jesus.

From Courtroom to Throne Room

aken together, these two visions speak with one voice. In the courtroom we are acquitted — no condemnation. In the throne room we are welcomed — no separation. Grace has set the verdict in our favour and torn the veil before our eyes. We live under a new jurisdiction and within the unveiled Presence, clothed in Christ, praying with confidence, assured of being heard.

Under a New Jurisdiction: Reading Romans 6–8 Without Contradiction

Many stumble over what appear to be contradictions in Romans 6–8, but Paul is not confused. In Christ we are acquitted from sin’s penalty, still battle its power, and await freedom from its presence. Even holiness itself is Christ’s gift, for in Him we are already holy in God’s sight.