Sin’s Solution: Self or Savior? (Numbers 21:4-9)

While not every religion uses the word “sin,” they all embrace the concept. Every religion acknowledges that mankind’s flawed attitudes or misguided actions are a source of pain, both now and potentially in eternity. So every religion offers a solution: a set of laws, a moral code, a path to more enlightened behavior.  What do they have in common? We are to solve sin through human effort. Be better! Try harder! This is the heart of all false religion, which results in one of only two outcomes: 1) those who correctly understand they will never overcome their sin are crushed by guilt, or 2) those who ludicrously believe they have defeated their sin are killed by pride. True religion offers a better way—a way that frees us from guilt and has no room for pride. Jesus teaches that the solution to our sin is not, self, not working harder. Rather, it is to trust in our Savior and the work he has done for us.