God Made Us His Own People
Scripture: 2 Corinthians 5:21 (NIV) God made him who had no sin to be sin for us, so that in him we might become the righteousness of God. Devotion: This verse, located at the end of an explanation of how God is reconciling us to Himself, shows us the true power of the cross in the life of the believer. Paul gives us one of the most breathtaking summaries of the gospel found anywhere in Scripture. It is a single sentence, yet it contains the depth of eternity. Every word is deliberate. Every phrase is heavy with meaning. And every part of it reveals the astonishing grace of God toward sinners who could never save themselves. Paul begins by reminding us that Christ “knew no sin.” Jesus lived the only truly righteous human life. He never rebelled, never wavered, never entertained a sinful thought or committed a sinful act. His obedience was perfect, not only outwardly but inwardly. He loved the Father with all His heart, soul, mind, and strength. He fulfilled the law not...