“There is no one righteous, not even one.” – Romans 3:10
It is relatively easy for us to recognize sin in someone else. It is much more difficult to recognize it in ourselves. Yet Paul writes, “none of us is righteous, not even one.” We tend to think of ourselves as the exception, but when it comes to sin, there are no exceptions. Until we understand the holiness of God, it is almost impossible for us to clearly see our own sin.
Years ago, the London Times ran an article encouraging its readers to respond to the question, “What is wrong with the world?” I am sure the editor must have read the following reply more than once before its profound truth sunk in:
“Dear Sir:
In response to your question, ‘What is wrong with the world?’
I am.
Yours truly.’”
We are what is wrong with the world. God’s standard is absolute righteousness, and when we begin to see His holiness, we understand how short we fall. No matter how skilled we may be at hiding our sins, we cannot make them disappear. Only God is able to save us and He has chosen to save us through His Son. It’s why Jesus came to earth and why He died and rose again – to pay for our sins on the cross, claiming His victory over sin and death through His resurrection.
Our sin is the problem. Jesus Christ is the solution. That is why this message is called Good News!