Jesus Is Lord – August 30, 2023

If you declare with your mouth, “Jesus is Lord,” and believe in your heart that God raised him from the dead, you will be saved.
Romans 10:9

Jesus Is Lord

We live in a time when people are taught to speak up boldly for what they believe in. Whether it agrees with others or not, as long as it doesn’t hurt anyone else, be proud of who you are and what you think. Find your voice and let it be heard.

In today’s Bible verse, a pastor named Paul encourages his readers to speak boldly about the things they believe. But did you notice what he wants them to confess? He tells them to declare, “Jesus is Lord.” Maybe that doesn’t strike you as strange. “Jesus” and “Lord” are two words that are often associated with each other.

But “Lord” is a term that often refers to authority. It’s a word for a master or owner—one who is in charge and in control. So, when we declare, “Jesus is Lord,” we are saying that we are not. Jesus is above us and has authority over us. Who boldly confesses that they are under someone else?

When the Lord we are talking about is Jesus, we do. The word “Lord” in the Bible doesn’t just describe someone who is in charge, someone who has all authority in heaven and earth. It describes a God who makes and keeps promises, who loves faithfully, dependably, and unconditionally. It describes a God who owns us because he was willing to give everything—even his own innocent life and priceless blood—to buy us out of slavery to sin and death. A God who showed the world a proof of purchase when he rose from the dead.

When, by God’s power and grace, we confess, “Jesus is Lord,” we aren’t just saying that Jesus is in charge of our lives. We are confessing our humble trust in him, who loves us completely. We are rejoicing in his perfect love that paid the price required to forgive us and make us his own. And we are celebrating his rule over all things in heaven and earth to give us an eternal home in his presence.

Prayer:
Jesus, you paid an amazing price to make me your own. Help me confess you as Lord all the days of my life. Amen.