Every week at Immanuel, after we confess our sins, I say this:

“Arise and hear the good news. Brothers and sisters who have been baptized into union with Jesus Christ, God Himself promises you the forgiveness of the Father, the victory of the Son, and the glory and empowerment of the Holy Spirit. Believe this, and rejoice.”

These aren’t my words, God’s. I’m only a spokesman for Jesus, the Head of the church and the Husband of the Bride.

Hear what God says. He promises you forgiveness. Your sins are wiped away so there is no condemnation (Rom 8:1).

But He does more. He cleans you up, so you can share the victory of Jesus. “Jesus” means “Savior,” which means “Victor.” Jesus has overcome sin, death, and the devil.

In and through Him, so do we. We’re more than conquerors through Him who loved us (Rom 8:38).

We share in the victory of Jesus because we receive the glory and power of the Spirit. The Spirit covers and transforms our shame into glory. Even when we’re weak, his power works in us.

Forgiveness, victory, glory, power. That’s what makes for an abundant, productive, triumphant life. And these are the gifts God offers you every time we gather for worship.

Hear these, and believe. God forgives you, gives you victory, power, and glory. Whatever your haters say, whatever your own brain or heart tells you, this is the truth about you.

You are not a putrid sinner, but clean. You’re not a loser, but victorious. You’re not ugly and shameful, but glorious in the Spirit. You are not weak, but strong.

Make it your habit to see this you when you look in the mirror. Don’t look at yourself with disgust, or review your life with regret.

What God says about you is the truth. The real you is the forgiven, victorious, glorious, powerful you. These are God’s words. “Believe this, and rejoice.

– Pastor Liethart