The Most Valuable Discovery
By Cougan Collins

lgchurchofchrist@cableone.net

 

In 1847, Sir James Simpson of Edinburgh discovered the use of chloroform as an anesthetic in surgery. Some claim this to be the most significant discovery of modern medicine.

 

In his later years, Sir James was lecturing at Edinburgh University and a student asked, “What do you consider to be the most valuable discovery of your lifetime?”

 

He answered quickly, “My most valuable discovery was when I discovered myself a sinner and that Jesus Christ was my Savior.”

 

The book of Romans makes clear these two significant truths that Simpson articulated. The problem is sin. “For all have sinned, and come short of the glory of God” (Romans 3:23). And the penalty for sin is death (Romans 6:23). Paul declares that the power of God unto salvation is the gospel of Jesus (Romans 1:16). In Christ we have the divine provision: “While we were yet sinners, Christ died for us” (Romans 5:8). The price that was paid? “Being now justified by his blood, we shall be saved from wrath through him” (Romans 5:9).

 

Now what’s the process by which we contact that blood? By placing our faith and trust in Jesus (Romans 5:1), confessing Christ (Romans 10:9–10), turning from our sins in repentance (Romans 2:4), and being buried with Christ in baptism (Romans 6:1–4). Then we are to dedicate the rest of our lives in service to Him (Romans 6:12–18; 12:1).

 

The most valuable discovery you and I can make is that we are sinners and that Christ desires to be our Savior. We invite you to worship and study with us to learn more about first century Christianity – lgchurchofchrist.com.

 

Adapted —Allan Eldridge / David A. Sargent, Mobile, Alabama