Self Evident
Originally scheduled for July 4
“We hold these truths to be self-evident, that all men are
created equal …” These words are prized by all free men, but most particularly
by Americans. They come from the second paragraph of the Declaration of
Independence. They reflect the fact that the great majority of those who
signed that declaration were Christians. The concepts stated come from the
center of Christianity.
“All men are created equal” – and every last one of them is a
sinner. It’s the reason we have a balance of powers in our government. No man
can be trusted absolutely. For that same reason Christ died for all – not a
select few. There is no sense that Christ died only for “worthy sinners”.
Indeed, the concept is not found in the Bible.
“All men are created equal” – and for that reason the
Scripture tells us that “whosoever will” can be saved. Christ knows that we
are incapable of our own salvation. By his great love the sacrifice of the
Cross is provided to all. It is a measure of Christ’s love; it is also a
measure of his justice. The equality of man is exemplified in the Cross.
“All men are created equal” – and all of us struggle with sin
in our lives. We need a time to repent of our sins and accept once again the
grace of our Lord and Savior. So it is that the Lord’s Supper is open to all
who believe, not just a select few.
“All men are created equal” – and we often need to be
reminded of that. For this reason Americans celebrate the 4th of
July. It’s not just for the fireworks; it is to remember the heritage we have
been given – and to be moved to keep that heritage intact. We remember the
“rocket’s red glare” so that we will remember the sacrifices of brave men which
gave us this freedom. So it is with the Lord’s Supper: it reminds us of the
grace and mercy we have been given, and the price paid for that grace. In it
we remember the one who paid that price in pain, suffering and death.
Consider, then, that you are no better than all the others
gathered together; you are a sinner. Your hope is in Christ, who died for
you. It is easy to remember the victory of the resurrection; we need to be
reminded of the suffering which preceded it. Consider carefully, then, the
ways of your life. Examine yourself; then remember the one who gave you
freedom from the bondage of sin.
