No Condemnation

Romans 8:1. "Therefore, there is now no condemnation for those who are in Christ Jesus." Every word is chosen. Therefore, because of the rescue just announced at the end of chapter 7. Now, not later, not after you improve. No condemnation, not less condemnation or suspended condemnation but none. For those who are in Christ Jesus, which is the whole condition and the only one.

Condemnation is a courtroom word. It is the sentence passed after the verdict of guilty. Paul is not saying the evidence against you was weak. He has spent seven chapters establishing that it was overwhelming. He is saying that the sentence has been carried out on another, and the court does not try the same case twice.

Midweek, with the week's failures already accumulating, this is the verse to say aloud. Not as a mood to summon but as a fact to stand on. There is now no condemnation. The now includes Wednesday.