Foreknowledge
Dec 8, 2021
Romans 8:29-30. In elementary school we learn the very basics. In higher education, we learn advanced ideas. What would life be like if we were still learning the basics in high school, college, or beyond? A childhood perspective makes it seem we are in control of our salvation. As Christians study the word and advance...
Image of Christ
Nov 11, 2021
Romans 8:28. Paul says, “We know.” Christians possess knowledge that pain has a divine purpose. Suffering is used to conform Christians into the image of Jesus Christ. Three well-known examples of suffering in Scripture are Joseph, Job, and Peter. Joseph was mistreated by his brothers. Job was misunderstood by...
Suffering
Oct 25, 2021
Romans 8:18-28. Suffering is defined as a state of pain – mental, emotional, and physical. Pain can and does affect our relationships with God, others, and even self. When our relationships are fractured, suffering becomes circular and multiplied. Since humans will not escape suffering and pain cannot be avoided, what...
"Abba Father"
Oct 8, 2021
Romans 8:12-17. Prior to conversion, humans are slaves to sin and death. People are not able to not sin. They must pay homage to the flesh which controls thoughts and actions. Thanks to God, when Christ redeems the lost, they are indwelled by the Spirit of God and are empowered to choose not to sin. Because they are in...
No Condemnation
Sep 23, 2021
Romans 8:1-11. Humanity in the first century was in a mess. We see this in the Letter to the Romans. Being totally transparent, Paul journaled, “Who will deliver me from this body of death?” That is a great question for humanity in the twenty-first century. Who will save us? As Paul wrote, we can confidently...