Our One Defense

“The Jews who had come down from Jerusalem stood around him, bringing many and serious charges against him that they could not prove. Paul argued in his defense…” Acts 25:7-8a

You might know what it feels like to defend yourself against an accusation. Maybe you said something unkind, or behaved unethically or told a half truth, and you were found out. Or perhaps you were unfairly accused of something another did. Either way, our bodies have a physiological response to these moments; sweaty palms, a racing heart, nausea, and spiraling thoughts.

One day, we will face death, and after death, the judgement.

Guilty, we will stand before the God who knows all things, even our motives, and our adversary will be there- the accuser of the brethren- who accuses us day and night before the Lord. The fear and trepidation we feel defending ourselves on earth will be nothing in comparison to what we experience on that day.

We will have no argument, no defense, no hope, save One.

Jesus took the punishment we deserved, and through Him we are declared forgiven and righteous. His blood silences our accuser.

“There is therefore now no condemnation for those who are in Christ Jesus. For the law of the Spirit of life has set you free in Christ Jesus from the law of sin and death.” (Romans 8:1-2)

No condemnation.

Paul stood before Festus the Governor, innocent of the charges brought against him. Ultimately, he appealed to go before Caesar in hope of a fair trial.

Our hope? It’s not in a fair trial, but in the grace and mercy of our God, in Christ Jesus. He is our Defender and Justifier, today and always.