WHAT THE RANSOM CAN MEAN FOR YOU

Despite our sinful condition, we can enjoy priceless blessings because of the ransom. Let us consider some of the present and future benefits of this greatest gift from God. 

The forgiveness of sins. Because of  inherited imperfection, we have a real struggle to do what is right. All of us sin either in word or in deed. But by means of Jesus' ransom sacrifice, we can receive "the forgiveness of our sins." (C0lossians 1:13, 14)  To gain that forgiveness, however, we must be truly repentant.  We must also humbly appeal to Jehovah, asking his forgiveness on the basis of our faith in the ransom sacrifice of his Son. -1 John 1:8, 9.


A clean conscience before God. A guilty conscience can easily lead to hopelessness and make us feel worthless. Through the forgiveness made possible  by the ransom, though, Jehovah kindly enable us to worship him with a  clean conscience despite our imperfection.  (Hebrews 9:13, 14) This makes it possible for us to have freeness of speech with Jehovah.  Therefore, we can freely approach him in prayer. (Hebrews 4:14-16)  Maintaining a clean conscience gives peace of mind, promotes  self-respect, and contributes to happiness.

The hope of everlasting life on a paradise earth. "The wages sin pays is death, says Romans 6:23. The same verse adds:  "But the gift God gives is everlasting life by Christ Jesus our Lord."  In Chapter 3 of this book, we discussed the blessings of the coming earthly Paradise. (Revelation 21:3, 4) All those future blessing, including life everlasting in perfect health, are made possible because Jesus Christ died for us.  To receive those blessings, we need to show that we appreciate the gift of the ransom.

Next time: HOW CAN YOU SHOW YOUR APPRECIATION?

From the Book: What Does the Bible Really Teach? 2005 and 2006