Free and Clear

Actually, I watch very little television, but [on occasion] I confess to watching re-runs of Law and Order.  Mr. Bill rolls his eyes at this, but I contend it’s no worse than him watching shows where two old guys stand in a boat, spittin’ in the water, catchin’ the same poor fish over and over.

 

Of Christ, we are reminded, “… He poured out His soul to death and was numbered with the transgressors …” (from Isaiah 53:12).  We must wonder why Jesus – the sinless Son of God – positioned Himself to be counted among sinners.  In the courtroom, when the accused stands, his counselor (attorney, advocate) stands with him.  Furthermore, the accused doesn't speak; his advocate speaks on his behalf.  Do you see the parallel? Now, for the rest of Verse 12: “…yet He bore the sin of many, and makes intercession for the transgressors.”  Spurgeon sums it like this: “He stands to answer the accusation.”  Truth is, not all courtroom verdicts end well for the accused.  In the court of the Righteous Judge, for the sinner the verdict is beyond incomprehensible.  Once and for all time, Jesus stood with us (the condemned), and delivered Himself to be counted and named among the accused.  Ultimately, He accepted the full judgment for the sin of you and me, and something amazing took place; there on the cross: “There was a complete transfer made between Jesus and His people.” (Spurgeon).  The accused – you and me – received complete absolution – pardon, exoneration, release, freedom.  Just like an accused cannot be tried a second time, neither is the justification of man revisited.  The price was completely and forever paid in full.  All who have confessed Jesus as Savior stand free and clear of all condemnation. This is what it means to the true-born ... Redeemed.