Pastor's Corner

In a world marked by suffering, tragedy, and pain, many ask, "Why do bad things happen if God is good?" The answer lies in understanding our world's current fallen state. When sin entered through Adam's rebellion, it affected not just humanity but all creation. Yet God has provided a way of escape through Jesus Christ.

"There hath no temptation taken you but such as is common to man: but God is faithful, who will not suffer you to be tempted above that ye are able; but will with the temptation also make a way to escape, that ye may be able to bear it." (1 Corinthians 10:13)

The Reality of Our Fallen World

Our world today operates under the curse of sin. Natural disasters, disease, and death weren't part of God's original perfect creation but are consequences of humanity's rebellion against God.

"Wherefore, as by one man sin entered into the world, and death by sin; and so, death passed upon all men, for that all have sinned." (Romans 5:12)

God's way of escape through Christ. Jesus Christ is our way of escape from this fallen world's destruction. He provides not just future salvation but present victory through faith.

"For whatsoever is born of God overcometh the world: and this is the victory that overcometh the world, even our faith." (1 John 5:4)

Victory through Christ includes: deliverance from sin's power. "Being then made free from sin, ye became the servants of righteousness." (Romans 6:18) Authority over the enemy. "Behold, I give unto you power to tread on serpents and scorpions, and over all the power of the enemy: and nothing shall by any means hurt you." (Luke 10:19) Freedom from fear. "For God hath not given us the spirit of fear; but of power, and of love, and of a sound mind." (2 Timothy 1:7)

While Christians face the same trials as others, we have access to Christ's victory: His presence in trials, His power over circumstances, and His promises of deliverance. "Nay, in all these things we are more than conquerors through him that loved us." (Romans 8:37)

Victory comes through: faith in Christ's finished work, standing on God's promises, walking in spiritual authority, applying the blood of Jesus. "And they overcame him by the blood of the Lamb, and by the word of their testimony." (Revelation 12:11)

In this fallen world, Jesus provides: Victory over sin, deliverance from evil, protection from harm, power over circumstances, and peace in trials. "These things I have spoken unto you, that in me ye might have peace. In the world ye shall have tribulation: but be of good cheer; I have overcome the world." (John 16:33)

We can walk in victory by: claiming Christ's authority. standing on His promises, speaking His Word, and walking by faith. "For we walk by faith, not by sight." (2 Corinthians 5:7)

While we have present victory in Christ, we also await final redemption: "And God shall wipe away all tears from their eyes; and there shall be no more death, neither sorrow, nor crying, neither shall there be any more pain." (Revelation 21:4)

Understanding our victory in Christ helps us: Face trials with confidence, help others find freedom, demonstrate Christ's power, and share hope effectively. "I can do all things through Christ which strengtheneth me." (Philippians 4:13)

Life in a fallen world brings challenges, but Jesus Christ provides our way of escape. Through faith in Him, we have access to victory, deliverance, and power over every circumstance. Until His return, we walk in His authority, claim His promises, and share His victory with others.

"Thanks be unto God, which giveth us the victory through our Lord Jesus Christ." (1 Corinthians 15:57)

Remember: Our hope isn't in circumstances changing but in Christ's finished work and the victory He provides in every situation.

Chaplin R.S. Patterson

Redeemer Lutheran Church