Romans

Studying Romans provides a thorough overview of theology. The truths in this book are crucial for every believer and deserve our careful consideration. I hope the time so far has strengthened your faith and that you are experiencing spiritual growth as we continue to examine Paul’s letter.

In today’s passage, Paul tells his fellow Jews that they are ignoring the salvation message from God’s Word that was meant for them. The Jews rejected Jesus and the way to salvation through faith, even though they had been reading about the coming Messiah since their bar mitzvahs.

In Romans, we learn about the transforming power of the gospel (Rom. 1:1-17), the problem of sin (Rom. 1:18-3:20), the plan of salvation (Rom. 3:21-5:21), the process of sanctification (Rom. 6:1-8:39), and, in our current section, how the sovereign God works all these things together (Rom. 9:1-11:36).

Weekend Recharge

Weekend Recharge

The sovereignty of God has been one of the most debated doctrines throughout church history. It was a concern even during the early days of the church, and it remains a topic of discussion today. Is God’s sovereign work fair? Why does he hold people responsible? Is God just in his sovereignty? How do we accept something we find so difficult to understand? 

Up to this point in our study of Romans, we have looked at Paul’s teachings on the power of the gospel, the “news of victory” (Rom. 1:1-17), the problem of sin (Rom. 1:18-3:20), the plan of salvation (Rom. 3:21-5:21), and the process of sanctification (Rom. 5:21-8:39). I hope you have been personally moved and your heart changed by the message of Romans so far. 

Today, we will begin a new section in Romans, focusing on God’s sovereignty (Rom. 9-11). Let’s consider the background first.

Today’s passage, Romans 8:31-39, is one of my favorites in all of Scripture. I can confidently say that, throughout my years of teaching and pastoring, I have quoted these verses more often than any others. This passage emphasizes the beautiful and powerful truth that God is always on our side, and his steadfast love for us will never end. 

“Please read that verse you read the last time you were here.” That’s what Bruce requested when I stopped by for a visit. Bruce was a prominent lawyer in our city and known as a mover and shaker. He had mellowed over the years, and his heart was tender from the news of terminal cancer. I opened my Bible and read Romans 8:26-27 aloud.