The Myth of Human Goodness: A Misguided Notion
Our culture is enamored with the idea that humans are inherently good, not sinful. We love to believe that our actions are shaped by external factors, rather than acknowledging our own moral shortcomings. This mindset has led many to think that they can earn God’s approval through good deeds, rather than recognizing their need for redemption.
A False Sense of Security
Take Michael Bloomberg, for example. As one of the richest people in the world and a former mayor of New York City, he’s confident that his work on gun safety, obesity, and smoking cessation has earned him a spot in heaven. With a grin, he claims he won’t need to stop for an interview on judgment day – he’s certain of his place among the righteous. But this confidence is misplaced. The Bible paints a starkly different picture of humanity, declaring that “none is righteous, no, not one” (Romans 3:10-12).
The Bad News and the Good News
If we’re not bad, then the good news of salvation isn’t really good news at all. The bad news is that we deserve God’s wrath because we’ve rebelled against our Creator. But it’s precisely this bad news that makes the good news of salvation so remarkable. We can’t earn God’s favor through our actions; instead, we need to acknowledge our sinfulness and accept the gift of redemption.
Misconceptions About Faith
Other common misconceptions about faith abound. Some believe that once saved, always saved – but the Bible warns us that perseverance in faith and good works is essential for final salvation. Others view the Bible as simply a love letter from God, but it’s so much more than that. And then there are those who think motherhood is a woman’s highest calling, forgetting that our primary identity is as children of God. Finally, some argue that the Gospels are full of contradictions, but a closer examination reveals a more nuanced truth.
The Truth About Humanity
The truth is that we’re not good; we’re bad. And it’s only when we acknowledge this reality that we can begin to understand the true magnitude of God’s love and redemption. So, let’s not be fooled by our culture’s misguided notions of human goodness. Instead, let’s embrace the bad news, and in doing so, discover the incredible good news of salvation.
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