Didn’t Have That Grace….

Continuing from yesterday’s entry about the blindness and mental distortion that occurs when sin is allowed in one’s life, we read about the religious leaders hearing about Jesus’ resurrection, denying it by bribing the soldiers to make up a story, and lying about what really happened. It’s really hard to believe that it’s possible for a human being to deny the very thing they dedicate their lives to promoting. Hypocrisy has a way of doing just that. And worse yet, all people hate hypocrisy, but only a few have the ability to see it in their own lives and do something about it. It’s only through God’s Spirit that we have the ability to recognize our sin. Then when our conscience convicts us, God gives us the power to repent, be forgiven, and are strengthened to move forward without the baggage that goes along with it. The religious leaders didn’t have that grace. At least they denied their sin when it came up. If you don’t think this exact behavior continues today, look at Washington DC. Look at our media. It’s on display, for all to see. Some even brag about it. How do you handle your sin when your conscience convicts you?

11 As the women were on their way, some of the guards went into the city and told the leading priests what had happened. 12 A meeting with the elders was called, and they decided to give the soldiers a large bribe. 13 They told the soldiers, “You must say, ‘Jesus’ disciples came during the night while we were sleeping, and they stole His body.’ 14 If the governor hears about it, we’ll stand up for you so you won’t get in trouble.” 15 So the guards accepted the bribe and said what they were told to say. Their story spread widely among the Jews, and they still tell it today. Matthew 28:11-15