For Christ also died for sins once for all, the just for the unjust, so that He might bring us to God, having been put to death in the flesh, but made alive in the spirit; in which also He went and made proclamation to the spirits now in prison, who once were disobedient, when the patience of God kept waiting in the days of Noah, during the construction of the ark, in which a few, that is, eight persons, were brought safely through the water. Corresponding to that, baptism now saves you—not the removal of dirt from the flesh, but an appeal to God for a good conscience—through the resurrection of Jesus Christ, who is at the right hand of God, having gone into heaven, after angels and authorities and powers had been subjected to Him.
(1 Peter 3:18-22, NASB)
Peter’s two short epistles contain such incredible wisdom. Today’s verses are no exception, but I want to focus this morning on the true gospel message in verse 18.
Jesus “died for sins once for all, the just for the unjust, so that He might bring us to God.” Whenever I speak at retreats and other events, I'm privileged to share the amazing truth that Jesus, God the Son, paid our penalty for sin. We do not in any way deserve God’s grace and mercy, but we get it anyway. All we have to do is accept God’s free gift.
It’s available to anyone, everyone. No matter what you’ve done. No matter where you come from. No matter what. If you accept Jesus’ sacrifice on your behalf—on your behalf—you will be brought to God the Father.
Throughout history—and even today—many people have believed that what they do brings salvation. If they do that certain ritual or keep a particular tradition, they’ll be saved. If they live a good life, they’ll go to heaven.
But it has nothing to do with us. It’s only because of God’s love for us. His grace. His mercy.
Have you accepted that gift? Have you stopped trying to make it on your own? If you haven’t, send me an email (sauni@saunirinehart.com), and I’ll share with you how you can meet Jesus. Today.
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