Our Common Problem

Romans 3:21-24

“21 But now apart from the law, the righteousness of God has been made known, to which the Law and the Prophets testify. 22 This righteousness is given through faith in Jesus Christ to all who believe. There is no difference between Jew and Gentile, 23 for all have sinned and fall short of the glory of God, 24 and all are justified freely by his grace through the redemption that came by Christ Jesus.”

Paul does not see any difference in any human being on earth.  According to Paul, sin is the thing that we all have in common.  Sin is the great equalizer.  We all have the same weaknesses. And as a result,  all humans have sinned and fallen short of the glory of God.  

Our common problem can only be resolved by the great gift of God, “the redemption that came by Christ Jesus”.  

A common problem and a common solution.

In a time when we celebrate our differences, Paul would tell us that we have more in common that we are willing to admit.

“Do not judge, so that you may not be judged. For with the judgment you make you will be judged, and the measure you give will be the measure you get.” (Matthew 7:1-2)

May the love of Christ be with you,

Rev. Eric Lanier (Retired)