Christ Helps the Helpless #413

We ought to build self-esteem rather than seriously undermine it. Correct? Well, we've been supremely successful. Students in the United States feel good about themselves. At the same time, they are far behind other nations in math and science. We feel great about doing poorly.

This has eternal significance. The Bible says, "While we were still helpless, at the right time Christ died for the ungodly" (Romans 5:6). Again, "God demonstrates His own love toward us, in that while we were yet sinners, Christ died for us." (Romans 5:8).

Hold on. Are we really helpless? Are we really ungodly? Are we really sinners? I was taught to take care of myself. I'm not helpless. I was taught we are basically good not basically bad. I can't accept I'm an ungodly sinner. I'm certainly not as bad as other folks. I work hard. I take care of my finances. I live in a faithful monogamous relationship.

Have you ever had a guilty conscience? Have you ever felt bad after you've done something you know is wrong? Perhaps it was just a little lie. Perhaps it was only a one-night stand. But you felt bad. Why? You violated God's standards for living. You sinned. You are ungodly. Until you accept this diagnosis, the answer offered by Christ and by Christianity will continue to look foolish.

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