(The following is the June 17 devotional from my Next Step Devotions book. Before reading it, I suggest you read Romans 3 and pay close attention to verses 21-31.)

The book of Romans contains profound theological truths critical to Christianity. From them, we get the “Romans Road” approach to sharing the gospel with others, summarizing our sinful state before God and what Christ did to make it possible for us to experience his great salvation. Verses shared in this approach may include Romans 3:23, 6:23, 5:8, 10:9-10, and 10:13. Whether Christians use these passages or others to share the gospel, we must know the basics of the gospel for our understanding and to witness to others effectively.

Christian faith is not merely intellectual belief about Jesus or the Bible. It is a living relationship with Christ. This relationship is made possible by grace through faith when we recognize our sin, turn from it, and place our trust in Christ alone. People will never perceive their need for a Savior if they do not realize they are sinners. Romans 3:23 confronts sinful man with this truth, “For all have sinned and fall short of the glory of God.” Thankfully, that is not the end of the road.

In his mercy and kindness, God provided a perfect sacrifice in Jesus to pay the sin debt we owed. Through his crucifixion, Jesus paid the debt we couldn’t pay. When God saves us, Christ’s righteousness is credited to our account. As a result, the Judge of the universe can look at us and no longer see the sin that once separated us from him. Instead, he sees Christ’s righteousness and declares us not guilty.

It is a glorious truth that sinful humans can have their sins forgiven and enjoy a restored relationship with our Creator. Thank God for his Word that declares this incredible opportunity to us.

Next Step:
Read the above verses related to the Romans Road. If he has saved you and declared you not guilty, praise God for what he did through Christ. Who do you know who needs to hear this message?