Finding Freedom From The Evil In Us.
Most people acknowledge that evil exists in the world, manifesting itself in wicked acts such as murders, betrayals, oppression, theft, rape, domestic violence, and more. However, few people accept that there is evil within themselves.
We often justify ourselves as good because we don't commit some of the heinous crimes we witness. But is that really true? You'd be terrified to discover the evil you're capable of inflicting on another human being if you:
1. Had power over that person.
2. Had to hurt them to save your life or protect yourself.
3. Had to hurt them to gain personal benefits.
4. Could hurt them without consequences—no one would know, or even if they did, they would do nothing.
5. Felt wronged or cheated by that person and sought revenge.
Psychological studies have consistently shown that ordinary, well-adjusted individuals are capable of inflicting harm and cruelty on others when given the right circumstances. Some of these studies include:
- The Stanford Prison Experiment
- The Milgram Experiment
History and the Bible also provide numerous examples of individuals and nations who may have considered themselves good but committed very evil acts. A few of these include:
- Europe's descent into the Holocaust
- The Rwandan Genocide
- King David's murder of Uriah to hide his sin of adultery (2 Samuel 11)
- Cain's murder of Abel due to jealousy (Genesis 4:1-16)
Self-Deception
You and I also may think we are good until wicked thoughts and evil desires sometimes arise in our hearts, and we are brought face-to-face with our evil nature. We think with surprise: how could I have thought, done, or said this evil thing?
Unfortunately, when many come to this point, instead of accepting that they are sinners in need of God's grace, forgiveness, and transformation, they justify their evil actions or blame it on the Devil, others, or their situation, instead of themselves.
The Punishment for Evil
Redemption begins by accepting that there's an evil that all of us were born with. This evil nature does not deserve to exist, and soon, it will come to an end, and all who have it will be destroyed.
Romans 6:23 NIV says, "For the wages of sin is death, but the gift of God is eternal life in Christ Jesus our Lord."
But Here is Where Love Steps In
God couldn't bear to see His corrupted creation destroyed forever, so He sent His only and Holy Son to die in our place.
John 3:16&18 says, "Whoever believes in him is not condemned, but whoever does not believe stands condemned already because they have not believed in the name of God’s one and only Son."
The Solution to Evil
Jesus' death and resurrection are not only our saving grace from eternal damnation but also the solution to this evil in us. By believing in Jesus' sacrifice for our sins and confessing Him as our Lord and Savior, we receive a new life and God's Holy Spirit; our nature of evil is replaced with a new nature that can please God and is constantly becoming better and better, as we daily follow Jesus and rely on the transforming work of the Holy Spirit.
2 Corinthians 3:16-18 & 5:17 and Ezekiel 36:26-28
Have You Received This New Nature?
If yes, keep following Jesus, and please share with others this good news of what Jesus has saved you from, so they may believe and be saved and changed, too.
If no, please say this prayer:
"My God, I believe that over 2000 years ago, you sent your son, Jesus, to die for my sins, and Jesus rose again. Lord Jesus, your sacrifice for me has completely wiped my sins away. I am forgiven. I surrender my life to you, completely. I confess you are my Lord and Saviour. You gave your life to save me, and from now on, I will forever live my life to serve you. Thank you, Jesus, for saving me. I now have a new nature. I can now call God, Father. Amen."
Next Steps:
1. Read the Bible and pray daily to know God more and learn to live as Jesus lived.
2. Attend church and connect with fellow believers.
3. Share your testimony to spread the message of salvation.
4. Read this article: 12 Simple Tips To Understand and Enjoy The Bible: https://adebayodipo.medium.com/12-tips-to-help-you-understand-the-bible-e8b1cb68c520
Please share this message with others.
