Tuesday, August 20, 2024

We can liken this type of presentation to the architecture of a building. Prior to being redeemed and deemed righteous, we resemble a building in dire need of repair and refurbishment. However, upon redemption, the building is entirely renovated and appears flawless. This righteous identity is derived from Christ's perception of us, wherein He asserts claims over us that may not seem righteous to all observers. The standard has been lowered to such an extent that no individual has an excuse when standing before God in their own righteousness. This lowering of the standard liberates us from the burden of a righteousness that only Christ can comprehend. God's decrees of our innocence are upheld because no human can meet His divine standards. Consequently, God has predetermined everything according to blessings and curses, recognizing that no one could be trusted to uphold His standards. If judgment were based on human incompetence, we would all be without hope. This universal dilemma actually works in our favor: when God considers our sins, no one is found blameless. Thus, we approach empty-handed, ready to receive the perfect standard of justice that leads to a golden city. However, it appears that all other men require a transformation. Are we crafting a newfound freedom in Christ when we assert that our faith must aspire to this perfect vision? It seems to me that additional burdens are being imposed. No human comprehends the work necessary to establish justice. God's standards are eternal, and they inherently convey His eternal decrees through blessings and curses. We cannot debate whether we are fair or justified; we merely declare God's ways according to His standards. This is echoed by the apostle's bold and enigmatic statement, "Who will accuse God's elect?" Even if my faith were elevated to the standard of Christ's righteousness, I could potentially bring a charge, but in reality, no one understands that standard. Therefore, no one on earth can bring a charge.

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