What I learned in the Bible study

 I was into doing things I had never done so I joined a Bible study led by another student. I was a Freshman at the University of Wisconsin in Madison and although I had been to church most Sundays as I was growing up, I really couldn't tell you what the "gospel" was.

Oh, I'm sure I had some vague ideas. Jesus dying on the cross. Good news, etc.

But I had only heard Bible stories and parables, but never a clear presentation based on the Bible of why Jesus came to earth and why he had to die on a cross.



As we went through the Bible study, I was more and more fascinated by what I was learning. The hardest concept for me to understand and accept was the idea that I was a "sinner." Of course I knew I wasn't perfect but I really did consider myself to be a good person.

But then I came across verses like Romans 3:23:

"...for all have sinned and fall short of the glory of God."

And I realized that I was included in the "all" and that meant that I could not live up to God's standard no matter how hard I tried.

Then one night I went to a youth rally with my Bible study leader and some other young students. There I heard a young man tell how his life had been completely transformed by an encounter with Jesus. He had been on drugs, among other things. and had been radically saved.

Wow!

I wanted to know that version of God, instead of the one I imagined who sat on His throne in heaven and never intervened in human lives.

That night I prayed and acknowledged that I was indeed a sinner and that I needed a Savior - one who took my place, took the penalty I deserved and bought me with His own life.

I finally understood the "Gospel" and it was very good news!

 

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