Embracing Justice and Mercy

What does it mean to experience true transformation in our lives? The speaker’s recent sermon at Knox Evangelical Church reminds us that this transformation stems from the profound reality of Christ’s resurrection. In a world often burdened by moralism and rigid rule-following, the grace found in the gospel can breathe life into our existence. As the speaker eloquently puts it, “Without the gospel, our religion or any religion will end up drifting into just a weak, limpid kind of moralism.” The resurrection is not merely a historical fact; it is the very essence of power and renewal available to every believer.

The speaker highlights the resurrection’s role as a catalyst for change in our lives, urging us to look beyond its celebration on Easter Sunday. “The resurrection opens something up for us,” they explain. This power is rooted in our hope, assurance of salvation, and the transformative journey we embark on as followers of Christ. The Apostle Paul captures this essence in Philippians 3:10: “That I may know him, and the power of his resurrection.” This yearning for a deep connection with Jesus leads us to live out our faith actively, driven by the same power that resurrected Him.

In demonstrating our spiritual transformation, the speaker recalls the inspiring journey of Brian Stevenson, a tireless advocate for justice and mercy. Stevenson, who has fought for the rights of condemned prisoners, embodies the mission that flows from understanding the resurrection’s implications. He insists, “I believe that each of us is more than the worst thing we’ve ever done.” This belief stems from the same truth we find in Ephesians 2:4-5: “But God, who is rich in mercy, for his great love wherewith he loved us, even when we were dead in sins, hath quickened us together with Christ.” It is through Christ’s death and resurrection that we are made new, given purpose, and called to extend mercy to others.

The speaker also reminds us of the gap between justice and mercy, beautifully captured in the quote, “Mercy triumphs over judgment” (James 2:13). Understanding justice’s necessity allows us to appreciate mercy’s profound depth. God’s character encompasses both, and through the cross and resurrection, we see how both are fulfilled. The depth of our need for God’s grace invites us to be agents of that grace in a world often desperate for compassion.

As we reflect on this message, we are encouraged to approach our daily lives with the awareness of our resurrection power. The speaker invites us to consider how we can embody Christ in our interactions and decisions. Let us ask ourselves: How can we extend mercy to those around us? Where are we being called to advocate for justice in our communities?

In practical terms, embracing this resurrection power calls us to action—whether that means engaging in acts of kindness, supporting those in need, or simply sharing the message of hope we hold dear.

At Knox Evangelical Church in Old Strathcona, just north of Whyte Avenue in Edmonton, we invite you to join us in the pursuit of this mission. Check out the Knox Event Calendar for a variety of gatherings, as we come together in fellowship and community, seeking to glorify God in every aspect of our lives. Let us walk this journey together, continually embracing the justice and mercy we find in Christ.