There is therefore now no condemnation to them which are in Christ Jesus, who walk not after the flesh but after the Spirit. Romans 8:1
The province of Quebec is trying to bring in a law that would restrict the wearing of religious symbols by public servants. The law would ban the wearing of such items as Moslem headscarves, large crucifix pendants and broaches, and other items that are directly related to the religion of the wearer. But many people believe the new law violates the Canadian Charter of Rights and Freedoms, and they oppose the Quebec law. If the Quebec law is approved in that province, it is certain to be challenged to the Supreme Court of Canada. The Supreme Court will have to decide which law to apply. Usually, the Charter takes precedence over any other laws. But the Charter has a ‘notwithstanding’ clause that sometimes allows exceptions in particular cases. As we wait to see whether the ‘notwithstanding’ clause applies in the case of Quebec, let us rejoice that the law of God has no ‘notwithstanding’ clause.
The law of God concludes, as our text declares, that there is no condemnation to them which are in Christ Jesus. That statement contains no ‘notwithstanding’ nor any other possibility of an exception. It does not provide, as some would suggest, for us to lose our salvation for bad behaviour or lack of faith. It does not provide for any intrusion by anyone who is not saved. It does not allow even any argument on these critical issues, because ‘no condemnation’ means exactly that and nothing less. It means ‘no condemnation to them which are in Christ Jesus’ and nothing more. No amount of works, religion, or anything else can be mingled into the qualification to be exempt from condemnation. What could we possibly need or want to add to the work of the Lord Jesus on the cross. God is totally satisfied with that work, with that precious blood, with that atoning sacrifice, and so are we.
The law of double jeopardy protects Canadians who have been acquitted of a crime from ever being charged again with that same crime. That is very much like God’s declaration of ‘no condemnation’. Although we were guilty sinners, God has declared us righteous, clearing away all charges because they have already been judged at Calvary. God cannot bring back those charges against us, because he has declared that there is therefore no condemnation to them which are in Christ Jesus. And that is why we rest in the comfort of eternal security.
The overriding legal system in all the universe has no outstanding charges against us. Hallelujah! -Jim MacIntosh