Free, but Not Cheap

Many of us are bargain hunters. We stalk our prey in a number of ways: coupon clipping, garage sales, discount stores, even placing bids on the Internet auction sites. But what if we are offered the greatest possible possession absolutely free? 

First of all, most of us would be suspicious that it was not a legitimate offer. We would then recite the cliche that says that “there is no free lunch.” If it costs nothing, it is probably worth nothing. 

But right there is the catch to this premise. What we are talking about is absolutely free, but it is not cheap; it is the most valuable possession one can receive. It is eternal life, offered by the only One Who can supply it, the Lord Jesus Christ. 

As is true of every free offer, someone has to pay for it somewhere along the line. In the case of eternal life, it cost God His beloved Son. “For God so loved the world, that he gave his only begotten Son, that whosoever believeth in him should not perish, but have everlasting life” (John 3:16). 

It also cost God’s Son His life. “But God commendeth his love toward us, in that while we were yet sinners, Christ died for us” (Romans 5:8). The death penalty for our sins was borne by Jesus Christ in order that God might be just in demanding the death penalty for all sins, yet justifying sinners who receive Jesus Christ as their personal Savior. The penalty is exacted, but by a substitute. 

As in any free offer, it is not yours until you receive it. There must be a willing response from the one hearing the offer. God is offering, absolutely free, eternal life, forgiveness of sins, a home in Heaven and an intimate Father/son relationship with Him. 

Yes, you do qualify as a recipient; it is an offer to sinners. “For all have sinned and come short of the glory of God” (Romans 3:23). Not only are you a sinner by action, but you are also a sinner by nature. “Wherefore, as by one man [Adam] sin entered into the world, and death by sin; and so [by the same means, Adam,] death passed upon all men, for [evidenced by the fact] that all have sinned” (Romans 5:12). 

The rest is now up to you. God has done all that He can: He gave His Son to shed His blood for your redemption, raised Him from the dead for your justification, and has made the offer of eternal life, for you to receive by faith in Jesus Christ. Believe on Him today and enter into eternal life.