Text: John 21:15-17 | Listen to Message
Freedom From The Past
Imagine for a moment that Jesus Christ did not rise from the dead. So he taught people how to live and love, and he went about doing good and saving others, but when he died on a cross that was that: he couldn’t save himself.
If that’s what really happened, what would that say about your sin?
If death by crucifixion is the last chapter of Jesus’ story, there’s no reason to think he can do anything for you. Oh, he said he was going to lay down his life as an offering for your sin, but how would you ever know if his payment was accepted? If God’s own Son isn’t alive today, what makes you think you will avoid the death penalty?
Without the resurrection, there’s no way to escape your past. You will always be defined by the mistakes you’ve made – whether on purpose or even accidently or unknowingly. Your sin debts will always chase you and hound you for payment. Shame will always be stamped across your life like a scarlet letter. In short, your past will condemn you.
But Christ is risen! And because he lives you have freedom from your past. The Resurrection says loud and clear that God accepted Jesus’ payment for your debts. Your guilt has been washed away in the blood of Christ. Your shame has been covered by his love. And by his grace you’ve been given a new identity: you are forgiven, you are righteous, you are accepted!
Certainly you should acknowledge your past and repent of going your own way. But having done that, go and live today in the freedom of the Resurrection! Accept the Good News that Jesus died and rose again so that your past cannot control, condemn, or define you!
Sermon Notes & Application Questions