Living Beyond the Grave

Book excerpt: Have you ever heard someone say, I can be a perfectionist or I can be critical or I have a bad temper? Have you ever considered which sins were in the tomb with Jesus before he was resurrected on the third day? I am sure that many have not considered it. In Living Beyond the Grave, Bruno R. Giamba examines how perfectionism, critical/vengeful spirit, and anger are more than simply a personality trait or something that has been adopted by a family context. As we examine systematic theology, we discover that Jesus was the curse for the law (Gal. 3:13). Salvation cannot be attained by keeping a perfect law but only through trusting in the person and work of Christ. An overwhelming majority of Christians are still attempting to please God by keeping a record. They strive to be perfect. Perfectionism is in the grave. Is there no condemnation to those who are in Christ Jesus? (Rom. 8:1) Then why are Christians more likely to condemn others rather than pray for others? Did Jesus not take on the cup of wrath for mankind? (Matt. 26:39) Yet why are more Christians living in anger? Is it possible that most Christians excuse their sin by blaming a personality trait or a past family context? We must not allow this! Its time for all Christians to take the responsibility that we are living in the grave and need to live beyond the grave I believe there is great hope for the body of Christ when individuals take their sin to the feet of Jesus and begin to believe that Christ can set them free! As freedom reigns, Christians will live beyond the grave!