“There is therefore now no condemnation for those who are in Christ Jesus.”
Was there ever condemnation for those in Christ Jesus, and now there is not?
That was my first question looking at this verse. I didn’t like that idea. It did not seem to line up with my understanding of being in Christ Jesus.
Rather than saying that now there is not condemnation in Christ, the Text is saying that, being in Christ we are not doomed. Our fear of punishment is released.
Once we were (or, perhaps, still are) apart from Christ and then the condemnation of sin and guilt and death weighed on us heavily, but now we breath freely as the Spirit of God dwells inside of us.
Once God was an enemy, but now in his pursuit he has adopted us into his family.
Jesus, sent by God, did what we failed at. He pleased God. He lived free of sin and shame and offers his spotless record to those who love God (8:28). Jesus gave his life taking our death.
He took our punishment at the cross, and “There is therefore now no condemnation for those who are in Christ Jesus.”
Want to be free of condemnation and live in joy? Of course you do. Get in Christ Jesus. Love that Jesus is who he says he is and rest in that for the rest of your life.
Believer, same goes for you. Love Jesus.
