Nov 26
10
NOTHING TO PAY
Luke 7:42 And when they had nothing to pay, he frankly forgave them both. Tell me therefore, which of them will love him most?
The gospel of God’s free grace by Jesus Christ is indeed good news. But like those debtors the Lord spoke of, it is only good news to those who have nothing to pay. As long as a person believes that the salvation of their souls is an easy thing, something they can do for themselves, they will never feel their need of mercy. How sad it is to be told that the grace of God that brings salvation is no more than making a decision, or repeating the sinner’s prayer.
In answer to the question; “Who can be saved?” the Lord Jesus Christ answered that “With men it is impossible.” An old hymn asked the question: “What comfort can the Savior bring to those who’ve never felt their woe?” And most preaching today does nothing to make men see their need of grace. They’re told again and again that salvation is as “easy as ABC.” There is nothing in such a message to make anyone concerned or to feel their helpless case.
Thank God for that gospel that strips sinners, brings them down, and makes them debtors and beggars before God. Until I’m convinced that I have nothing to pay, I’ll never cry, “God be merciful to me the sinner.” But when we’re made to beg for mercy, then Jesus Christ freely forgives us of all our sins! Thank God when we’re made to feel that we have nothing to pay.
Larry Criss