Which of you convicts me of sin?

A sermon for Judica, the First Sunday in Passiontide, by Father Josh Leigeber.

Jesus’ question exposes a truth we would rather avoid: none of us can stand without sin. While we are often tempted either to ignore our sin or compare ourselves favorably to others, sin is never a small matter. It separates us from God and, left unchecked, leads to death.

Yet the answer is not denial or despair, but Christ Himself. Unlike Abraham or any other human being, Jesus alone is without sin. As the eternal Son of God and the promised Seed of Abraham, He is both the Priest and the Sacrifice, providing in Himself the forgiveness and redemption we need. Through His Word and His saving work, He gives the promise that those who keep His Word will never taste death.

Even so, the Christian life remains a struggle. Though forgiven, we still battle sin and cannot justify ourselves. Our life and salvation are found only in abiding in Christ—hearing His Word, repenting, and trusting in His mercy. In Him alone do we stand with a clean conscience and the sure hope of eternal life. You can listen to the full homily below.