2. The Double Cure Hebrews 9:24-28

3. Double Trouble  Sin makes us guilty  Sin is transgression of the law (1 Jn. 3:4)  “Now we know that whatever the Law says, it speaks to those who are under the law, that every mouth may be closed, and all the world may become accountable before God” (Rom. 3:19)  The Greek word here means, “liable to judgment or punishment, worthy of punishment, answerable, accountable”  This shows that it is actual guilt and not guilt feelings

4.  Sin has a power that holds us captive  Notice what Jesus said in Matthew 12:33-35 Fruit will be bad because the tree is bad The power of sin prevails over us (Rom. 6:12)  Some call this total hereditary depravity They will cite Ephesians 2:3 They think “nature” means you are born sinful Consider that Thayer says that this word can mean, “a mode of feeling and acting which by long habit has become nature” Thus, we cultivate a sinful nature because of sin, not that we are born that way  Let us not underestimate the powerful hold of sin (2 Tim. 3:13)

5. The Double Cure  Any cure must fit the malady to be effective  Must work on both the guilt and the power of sin  Must work for all (Jn. 3:16-17)  The song Rock of Ages identifies the cure - - the blood of Christ  Jesus was a sacrifice for sin (Heb. 7:27; 9:26)  His blood redeems and forgives (Matt. 26:28; Eph. 1:7; 1 Peter 1:18-19)

6. How It Works  The gospel prescription  Jesus gave it in the Great Commission (Matt. 28:19-20; Mk. 16:16; Lk. 24:47)  Peter employed this on Pentecost (Acts 2:38)  Through baptism we may receive what the double cure made possible by the blood of Christ

7.  The guilt of sin is forgiven  Sins are forgiven (Acts 2:38; 22:16)  Note 1 Peter 3:21 (NASB, ESV) - - “an appeal to God for a good conscience”  A release from the power of sin in that a new life is available  Newness of life (Rom. 6:3-5)  A new creation in Christ (Gal. 3:27; 2 Cor. 5:17)