As a child I used to run all over the neighborhood with my buddies. We would cut through yards and alleyways, heading to some destination or to no destination at all. Occasionally we came upon a “NO TRESPASSING” sign. I remember well my unwillingness to take a step on forbidden territory. I feared prosecution from the law and I wanted no part of that.
Oh, that we would never take a step where God forbids us to go. But sadly, all responsible men and women go against the restrictions of God’s will sometimes (Romans 3:23). And Ephesians 2:1 speaks of those “who were dead in trespasses and sins.” But this passage also tells us that we may be made alive through Christ Jesus.
When we violate a “NO TRESPASSING” sign we may be prosecuted to the full extent of the law and shown no mercy. But our God is willing to grant forgiveness to those who will come to Him through Jesus Christ the Lord. Whole-hearted, obedient surrender to the gospel brings mercy and forgiveness, even though we deserve the full penalty of our trespasses. (See Mark 16:16; Acts 2:38; 22:16; Titus 3:1-7).