Permanent Peace

“There is therefore now no condemnation to those who are in Christ Jesus” – Romans 8:1

This is not just a comforting phrase—it’s a Kingdom reality. It means that the verdict of guilt has been forever removed for those who belong to Jesus. The word Paul uses for “no” is emphatic—it means never, not now, not ever. And the word “condemnation” speaks not just of guilt, but of the penalty that guilt demands. In Christ, that penalty has been paid in full. We are justified, cleansed, and clothed in His righteousness. But this truth must be held in balance. No condemnation does not mean no discipline. Hebrews 12 reminds us that “whom the Lord loves He chastens.” God’s discipline is not punishment—it’s proof of sonship. We are not judged, but we are shaped. And we are accountable to Him, because we are in relationship with Him. Galatians 6:7 says, “Do not be deceived, God is not mocked; for whatever a man sows, that he will also reap.” Grace does not cancel accountability—it empowers it.

To be “in Christ” means we are united with Him in every way. He didn’t just take our sin—He gave us His righteousness. He didn’t just pay our debt—He shared His inheritance. Romans 5:1 says, “Therefore, having been justified by faith, we have peace with God through our Lord Jesus Christ.” That peace is permanent, because Jesus lives forever—and so does our standing in grace. But even with this assurance, many believers still wrestle with self-condemnation. We fall into sin, we repent, and we expect better of ourselves. When we don’t meet our own expectations, we begin to doubt. We think, “If people knew what I was really like…” or worse, “What if God gets tired of me?” But 1 John 2:1 reminds us, “If anyone sins, we have an Advocate with the Father, Jesus Christ the righteous.” He is the satisfaction for our sins. When the Father looks at us, He sees Christ. And He is satisfied.

Stop living in fear and start walking in freedom. You are not condemned—not by God, and not by yourself. Yes, you will be disciplined. Yes, you will be held accountable. But never condemned. That truth should not make us reckless—it should make us reverent. The soul that knows it is free from judgment is free to pursue holiness out of love, not fear. And when you fall, fall forward—onto your knees, into the arms of grace. Let the gospel settle the question of judgment once and for all. You are in Christ. You are secure. You are loved. Now go live like it—and tell someone else how they can be free too.

“Reach my blest Savior first, Take Him from God’s esteem, Prove Jesus bears one spot of sin, Then tell me I’m unclean.” – W. N. Tomkins