Skip to content Salvation is undeniably a churchy word. It often arises in discussions among believers, laden with religious connotations. Yet, how often do we encounter the word ‘salvation’ outside of these circles? What exactly does it signify, and why is it deemed necessary? Moreover, why do we need salvation?
What is Salvation
Salvation entails liberation from sin and its consequences. However, you might perceive this concept as abstract, questioning its relevance to your life. You might wonder, ‘Why would I need deliverance from sin if I don’t consider myself a sinner?’.”
Salvation from our Sins
If we are to take the Bible seriously, it teaches that none of us are perfect and therefore, we are all sinners. Admittedly, convincing someone of their own sinfulness can be challenging. I don’t intend to criticize or belittle anyone by asserting that they are not good enough; however, the reality is that none of us meet the standard of perfection.
The issue arises when we gauge our actions by comparing ourselves to others, often finding solace in the notion that we’re not as flawed as someone else. Alternatively, we rationalize our behaviors by citing upbringing or external circumstances such as obligations or societal pressures.
Let’s get straight to the point: these are merely excuses that fall short when measured against the standards we’re expected to uphold. Consider this scenario: Have you ever made a mistake on a test or homework assignment? Now, imagine presenting excuses to your teacher—claims like “I intended to do something else,” or “If I had more time, I would have answered correctly.” Would the teacher elevate your C-grade work to an A? Logically, any sensible teacher wouldn’t entertain such excuses.
This is akin to the nature of sin. We may believe our intentions were noble or that we would have acted differently under altered circumstances. However, the undeniable truth remains: at best, we are mere “C students” of life, and perhaps even worse.
Our view of Sin is colored by our childhood
Perhaps it’s rooted in our upbringing; our parents constantly showering us with praise, emphasizing how great and special we are. While this may sound preferable to being inundated with shame and criticism, both approaches can yield dysfunction. It’s evident that emotional trauma stemming from an overly critical parent can profoundly affect a child, a topic I won’t delve into here. However, unjust praise can lead to unintended consequences as well. A child raised with excessive praise may develop a belief that they can do no wrong. Understandably, low self-esteem is prevalent among adults who received little love from their parents. Yet, overcompensating with excessive praise where it’s unwarranted may make it difficult for that child, as an adult, to acknowledge their own shortcomings.
What if I know I am a Sinner
Perhaps acknowledging that you are a sinner isn’t the issue. Maybe you’ve come to terms with this realization, accepting yourself as a flawed individual. However, rather than desiring change, you embrace your sinful tendencies. This serves as a coping mechanism for your failures. Instead of evading your mistakes, you embrace them, allowing them to define you. While this approach may appear attractive and edgy, let me assure you, it will inevitably disrupt your inner peace and strain your interpersonal relationships.
Alternatively, you might acknowledge that you are a sinner, yet you don’t fully embrace this reality; instead, you find yourself somewhat indifferent. You don’t feel deeply concerned because, once again, you’ve compared yourself to your peers. At present, the consequences may not be readily apparent to you. However, there will come a time when they become unmistakable. Even if not within your lifetime, you’ll undoubtedly face them when you meet your maker. I don’t mean to alarm you, but I’m simply stating the reality of the situation.
Another way to confront our sin is by acknowledging it and harboring self-hatred as a result. This can lead to spiraling into deep despair. Unlike adopting an indifferent attitude, this approach gnaws at you internally. Your self-esteem plummets, and you develop a dim view of yourself and your capabilities. Perhaps your self-criticism becomes excessively harsh. If you find yourself in this situation, Jesus has good news for you, which I’ll explain.
Why do I need Salvation
So, regardless of where you find yourself on the spectrum of sin, or at least how you relate to it, salvation is imperative. You require deliverance from your sins..
They show that the requirements of the law are written on their hearts, their consciences also bearing witness, and their thoughts sometimes accusing them and at other times even defending them.- Romans 2:15
Deep within us lies a part that inherently comprehends the law of God. Our conscience communicates with us when we act rightly or wrongly. We may opt to disregard these inner promptings, but the reality remains that we possess an internal moral compass. Sin cannot be completely ignored. I would contend that it is due to our shortcomings or human failings that we endeavor to compensate and demonstrate our worthiness in some manner. We crave validation, whether it stems from peers, parents, or self-imposed standards. These yearnings ultimately echo the need for validation from God.
If you possess validation from the creator of the universe – the entity that initiated everything and comprehends the past and the future from the inception of time to the limitless expanse encompassing yourself and everyone in the universe – that judgment surpasses all others. However, the reality is that God abhors sin. Our imperfections undercut our validation from God, causing turmoil within our conscience. Consequently, we gravitate towards the next best option: the opinions of our peers, our parents, or the standards we’ve set for ourselves.
This validation bestows upon you worth, and in a sense, it serves as your salvation. It justifies who you are as a person, offering a semblance of inner peace. However, it remains a secondary form of validation.
Our soul requires salvation not from others or even from ourselves; it requires salvation from God alone. Only God can provide the soul-satisfying peace we seek.
Jesus Christ Your Savior-the Good News
The good news in all of this is that despite our imperfection, despite God’s aversion to sin, He still loves us. God’s grace becomes apparent through the fact that Jesus died for our sake, taking on all the sins humanity has committed and bearing them on himself as a replacement for our guilt. God’s wrath is spared, and we are given a free gift – the opportunity to receive salvation. If we acknowledge our failures and accept Jesus’s work, we receive salvation. The stain of sin is no longer a part of us; it has been utterly removed from God himself. If we fully believe this, then the validation from the highest authority remains intact. We are righteous in His sight. We are saved.
