Jesus’ final words from the cross announced His victory. Three days later He emerged in resurrection triumph from the tomb that was sealed in vain.
For believers, Jesus’ victory becomes our victory. Romans 5:8 says, “God demonstrates his own love for us in this: While we were still sinners, Christ died for us.” In love, the Father accepted the perfect work of the Son in our place. Through the drawing and regenerating work of the Spirit, we have assurance that Christ has rescued us. He took our sin’s punishment and clothed us with His perfect righteousness (Romans 5:21). He has changed everything!
What sin could you or I have committed which Christ’s blood could not have atoned for? What shameful secret sin still haunts and accuses you today? If you have repented and put your faith in Christ, it has long been forgiven. Our mortal enemies—the world, our flesh, and the devil—may taunt with accusations from our dark and Christ-less past. But “there is now no condemnation for those who are in Christ Jesus” (Romans 8:1).