Where, O Death, Is Your Victory?

by Royce

“Therefore, there is now no condemnation for those who are in Christ Jesus. For in Christ Jesus the law of the Spirit of life set you free from the law of sin and death.” — Romans 8:1-4

Do you recall the tax amnesty program that the government introduced in 2016-2017? It was a temporary initiative that allowed taxpayers to declare previously unreported income without the fear of prosecution or penalties. In some ways, it can be likened to the concept of God’s court of grace, where individuals are offered the opportunity to disclose their hidden secrets without facing condemnation or judgment.

The distinction between tax amnesty and the court of grace is significant. Tax amnesty benefits the government. The court of grace benefits you. In the court of grace, disclosing your sins removes the potential for accusations to be made against you. The primary beneficiary is the one who comes to confess — not the judge.

The court of grace offers certain pardon for sinners because of Jesus Christ’s role as both Savior and Judge. Through his sacrifice on the cross, Jesus became the Savior who provides forgiveness for sins. His resurrection established his authority over all things in heaven and on earth — granting him the role of judge as well (Matthew 28:18).

Unlike the worldly court, which exists to determine guilt or innocence, the court of grace offers a singular verdict: “You are forgiven.”

“There is therefore now no condemnation for those who are in Christ Jesus.” — Romans 8:1

If you already know that the verdict of the court of grace is forgiveness, what do you need to do? It’s similar to participating in a tax amnesty program — all you need to do is show up before the judge and disclose all your hidden secrets.

As we celebrate Easter Sunday, I hope that it brings you good news and a sense of renewed hope. Unlike putting our faith in a dead god, we can take comfort in the fact that Jesus Christ is risen and continues to work in us through the Holy Spirit.

“Let us run with perseverance the race marked out for us, fixing our eyes on Jesus, the pioneer and perfecter of faith. For the joy set before him he endured the cross, scorning its shame, and sat down at the right hand of the throne of God.” — Hebrews 12:1-3