8:1 There is therefore now no condemnation for those who are in Christ Jesus.
Now, after having presented the key message, that justification is only available through faith in Jesus alone; and how sin, death and the law no longer affect the believer, Paul begins to summarize what he has taught so far, by first saying that there is therefore no condemnation for those who believe in Jesus as their Savior. The Greek word that is translated in this verse as ‘condemnation’ (‘katakrima’) is only found three times in the Bible and all three are here in the book of Romans (see Romans 5:16, 18). The word essentially means, “from the results of judgment,” and the judgment for sin is death (see Romans 6:23). Paul is saying that believers will not be condemned to hell for their sins committed in the past, present or future.
In the last chapter, Paul reminded us that our conflict with sin does not end until we are with Jesus in heaven. Even though our sinning has not stopped, there is still no condemnation. All our sins, lusts, failures, temptations have been paid in full by Jesus Christ and offered freely through His grace. Needless to say, deliverance from condemnation does not necessarily mean deliverance from being responsible for our sin or any potential disciplinary actions from God (see Hebrews 12:6).
In some Bible versions there are a few extra words appended to the end of verse one. For example, the King James Version reads, “There is therefore now no condemnation to them which are in Christ Jesus, who walk not after the flesh, but after the Spirit.” (Romans 8:1, KJV) Those last few words are not found in most early Greek manuscripts, they are believed to have been added by a copyist by mistake, and therefore they are not included in most modern translations.
8:2 For the law of the Spirit of life has set you free in Christ Jesus from the law of sin and death. 3 For God has done what the law, weakened by the flesh, could not do. By sending his own Son in the likeness of sinful flesh and for sin, he condemned sin in the flesh,
In the next verse, Paul refers to the law of the Spirit of life, here again referring to a principle rather than God’s law or any other written code. Life with the Spirit sets us free rather than the law of sin that would otherwise condemn us. Allowing us to do what each of us are called to do, not find new ways to sin. For God has done for us what His written law, that required absolute perfect compliance would be impossible for us since humans are born as sinners. Paul said this was done by God the Father by sending His Son in the likeness of sinful flesh. Jesus was truly a man, and, on the outside, He looked just like everyone else, but He was different, He was without sin. A sinless man was offered for our sin. Allowing Him to condemn sin. The prophet Isaiah explained how Jesus did that long before Jesus was born: “Surely he has borne our griefs and carried our sorrows; yet we esteemed him stricken, smitten by God, and afflicted. But he was pierced for our transgressions; he was crushed for our iniquities; upon him was the chastisement that brought us peace, and with his wounds we are healed. All we like sheep have gone astray; we have turned—every one—to his own way; and the LORD has laid on him the iniquity of us all. He was oppressed, and he was afflicted, yet he opened not his mouth; like a lamb that is led to the slaughter, and like a sheep that before its shearers is silent, so he opened not his mouth. By oppression and judgment he was taken away; and as for his generation, who considered that he was cut off out of the land of the living, stricken for the transgression of my people?” (Isaiah 53:4-8) So that the righteous requirement of the law would be fulfilled in us who walk according to the Spirit. Paul is not just talking about salvation, he is also talking about the here and now, our sanctification. God wants us to pursue Him, not the world. The gospel message is not about making us happy, per se, it is about us and others being made holy.
8:4 in order that the righteous requirement of the law might be fulfilled in us, who walk not according to the flesh but according to the Spirit.
Paul contrasts walking according to the flesh and walking according to the Spirit. In his epistle to the church in Galatia, Paul provided a list of examples of each behavior. If one were to walk according to the flesh, they would undoubtedly practice one or more of these: sexual immorality, impurity, sensuality, idolatry, sorcery, enmity, strife, jealousy, fits of anger, rivalries, dissensions, divisions, envy, drunkenness, orgies, and things like these (see Galatians 5:17-21). Conversely, if one has received the Holy Spirit, they would regularly practice these: love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness, self-control; against such things there is no law (see Galatians 5:22-26). For those who live according to the flesh will keep thinking about things of the flesh and nothing righteous. Those who live according to the Spirit will keep thinking about God and ministering to others on His behalf (see also Colossians 3:2; Philippians 3:19). Living according to the Spirit brings life and peace. However, to set our minds on the flesh (carnally minded, KJV) is death and is hostile to God (see also Galatians 6:8). As Christians having minds set on the flesh separates us from our fellowship with God. It is only when we come to God to confess our sins that we are restored in our fellowship with Jesus.
8:5 For those who live according to the flesh set their minds on the things of the flesh, but those who live according to the Spirit set their minds on the things of the Spirit. 6 For to set the mind on the flesh is death, but to set the mind on the Spirit is life and peace. 7 For the mind that is set on the flesh is hostile to God, for it does not submit to God’s law; indeed, it cannot. 8 Those who are in the flesh cannot please God. 9 You, however, are not in the flesh but in the Spirit, if in fact the Spirit of God dwells in you. Anyone who does not have the Spirit of Christ does not belong to him. 10 But if Christ is in you, although the body is dead because of sin, the Spirit is life because of righteousness. 11 If the Spirit of him who raised Jesus from the dead dwells in you, he who raised Christ Jesus from the dead will also give life to your mortal bodies through his Spirit who dwells in you.
Paul says that if we have our minds set on things of the flesh, we cannot submit to God. We cannot be close to God if we are continually disobeying Him (see also James 4:4; 1 John 2:15). Since Christianity is about a relationship, those who are in the flesh cannot please God. As Christians, Paul reminds us that we are not in the flesh, instead we should be in the Spirit. He adds a condition to that statement, if the Holy Spirit dwells inside us (see 1 Corinthians 3:16; 2 Corinthians 6:16; 2 Timothy 1:14). If? How can we know that? He then continues and adds the clause, that anyone who does not have the Spirit of Christ does not belong to Him (see also John 14:17; Jude 19). Who or what is the Spirit of Christ? The Spirit of Christ is another name for the Holy Spirit (see Acts 16:7; Galatians 4:6; Philippians 1:18-19; 1 Peter 1:10-12). If Christ is in us, even though the body is dead due to sin, the Spirit provides us life, because of His righteousness, not ours. Paul uses another condition to make his point, if the Spirit of Him who raised Jesus from the dead actually dwells in us, then He who raised Jesus from the dead will also give life to our mortal bodies through the Holy Spirit, who dwells in us (see also John 6:63; 2 Corinthians 3:6).
With all these conditions that Paul is using, it still begs the question, how do you know that the Holy Spirit lives in you? Can you know for sure? While questions like these can cause one to wonder, we can, however, answer firmly with an affirmative. It is times like this where we can all really appreciate the Apostle John, who wrote words like, “so that you may believe that Jesus is the Christ, the Son of God, and that by believing you may have life in his name,” (see John 20:30-31) and “I write these things to you who believe in the name of the Son of God, that you may know that you have eternal life.” (see 1 John 5:13-15) John also wrote passages like 1 John 2:1-6 where he wrote: “My little children, I am writing these things to you so that you may not sin. But if anyone does sin, we have an advocate with the Father, Jesus Christ the righteous. He is the propitiation for our sins, and not for ours only but also for the sins of the whole world. And by this we know that we have come to know him, if we keep his commandments. Whoever says “I know him” but does not keep his commandments is a liar, and the truth is not in him, but whoever keeps his word, in him truly the love of God is perfected. By this we may know that we are in him: whoever says he abides in him ought to walk in the same way in which he walked.” The Holy Spirit inspired John to write these passages so that we can read these words and accept Jesus as our Savior and know that the Holy Spirit indeed lives in us.
8:12 So then, brothers, we are debtors, not to the flesh, to live according to the flesh.
Paul says that as believers, we cannot be condemned. We are not in the flesh but in the Spirit having the Holy Spirit dwelling in us, if He is in us then the same Spirit that raised Jesus from the dead, will also give life to us. Therefore, we are no longer debtors to the flesh and have no obligation to live according to the flesh. We are then no longer ruled by our ungodly motives, lusts or any other element of our fleshly nature.
8:13 For if you live according to the flesh you will die, but if by the Spirit you put to death the deeds of the body, you will live.
Paul reminds us that if we live according to the flesh, death will result. He is not warning true Christians that they may lose their salvation and be condemned to death if they fall back to the ways of the flesh. He has already stated that there is no condemnation for the believer (verse one). This reminder should urge anyone who may be affiliated, identified or regularly involved with things of the flesh to be aware they may not be a Christian. If they do not come to Christ, even if they call themselves a Christian (regardless of religious affiliation, position or title) and have not accepted Jesus as their Savior, they will be condemned and die (a second death). So, if by the Spirit you put to death the deeds of the body you will live (see Colossians 3:5-17).
As Paul pointed out in the previous chapter, a Christian will continue to struggle with sin. We are made up of a spiritual component, which has been cleansed, but we also live in a corrupt body, requiring us to constantly be alert in order to keep from disobeying God. Here is an excerpt from a book titled, The Reformed Pastor, written by Richard Baxter, an English Puritan theologian (1615-1691), that points out that due to this dichotomy in our lives, the importance for us to monitor our own sin (see also Matthew 7:1-6):
Take heed to yourselves, lest you live in those actual sins which you preach against in others; and lest you be guilty of that which daily you condemn. Will you make it your work to magnify God, and when you have done, dishonour him as much as others? Will you proclaim Christ’s governing power, and yet contemn it, and rebel yourselves? Will you preach his laws, and wilfully break them? If sin be evil, why do you live in it? if it be not, why do you dissuade men from it? if it be dangerous, how dare you venture on it? if it be not, why do you tell men so? If God’s threatenings be true, why do you not fear them? if they be false, why do you trouble men needlessly with them, and put them into such frights without a cause? Do you know the judgment of God, that they that commit such things are worthy of death, and yet will you do them? (Rom. 1:32.) Thou that teachest another, teachest thou not thyself? Thou that sayest a man should not commit adultery, or be drunk, or covetous, art thou such thyself? Thou that makest thy boast of the law, through breaking the law dishonourest thou God? (Rom. 2:21–23.) What, shall the same tongue speak evil, that speaketh against evil? Shall it censure and slander, and secretly backbite, that cries down these and the like in others? Take heed to yourselves, lest you cry down sin and not overcome it; lest while you seek to bring it down in others, you bow to it, and become its slaves yourselves. For of whom a man is overcome, of the same is he brought into bondage. (2 Pet. 2:19.) To whom you yield yourselves servants to obey, his servants ye are to whom ye obey, whether of sin unto death, or of obedience unto righteousness. (Rom. 6:16.) It is easier to chide at sin, than to overcome it.[1]
8:14 For all who are led by the Spirit of God are sons of God.
Paul then begins to discuss what may be the most important subject in this chapter, the fact that Christians are adopted sons and daughters of God. While it is true that all human beings, as well as everything on earth, are His, Christians are much more than that. We are “sons of God,” Paul uses the Greek word ‘huioi’, the Preface section of the English Standard Version (ESV) of the Bible states this in regard to that word:
The English word “sons” (translating the Greek word huioi) is retained in specific instances because the underlying Greek term usually includes a male meaning component and it was used as a legal term in the adoption and inheritance laws of first-century Rome. As used by the apostle Paul, this term refers to the status of all Christians, both men and women, who, having been adopted into God’s family, now enjoy all the privileges, obligations, and inheritance rights of God’s children.[2]
Did you catch that? We have been adopted into God’s family, which includes inheritance rights (see also John 1:6-13). However, Paul referenced being led by the Spirit, what could that mean? What do you suppose that would include? We know that would include at least, Bible study (as a Christian we need to know about God, the Holy Spirit will bring us to His Word); prayer (communication with God, beyond just meal-time prayers); fellowship with other believers; obedience to God (requiring us to know the Bible); and to help others find salvation through Jesus. Are we being led by the Holy Spirit or are we being led by our own earthly agenda?
8:15 For you did not receive the spirit of slavery to fall back into fear, but you have received the Spirit of adoption as sons, by whom we cry, “Abba! Father!”
Paul makes a valid observation; we did not receive the spirit of slavery to fall back into fear and our old ways. Being an effective Christian means that we do not retreat. Both Jesus and Paul have used the phrase, “to stand firm.” We can either stop and stand or go forward, we should never fall back. Instead, as believers we have received the Spirit of adoption, by who we can call out, “Abba! Father!” The word ‘Abba’ is a transliteration of an informal Aramaic word, often considered an equivalent to the English word, ‘daddy’, denoting intimacy and dependence.
8:16 The Spirit himself bears witness with our spirit that we are children of God, 17 and if children, then heirs—heirs of God and fellow heirs with Christ, provided we suffer with him in order that we may also be glorified with him.
The Spirit Himself bears witness that we are children of God, no substitutes, no alternates, no stand ins, the Spirit Himself bears witness with our spirit that we really are God’s children. Then Paul says something that on the surface seems like a reasonable progression of this claim, but in reality, is perhaps beyond our comprehension to fully understand. He says, if children, then heirs of God (see also Galatians 3:23-4:7). While you ponder that statement, get ready for something totally outrageous. Paul adds that we are fellow heirs with Jesus, that’s right, Jesus!
But he also adds, “provided we suffer with him.” Wait, what? Suffer? What does that mean? First of all, how we suffer is not up to us, it can include a lot of different things (see John 15:20; Acts 14:21-22; 2 Thessalonians 1:5; 2 Timothy 2:12; 3:12; 1 Peter 5:10). Secondly, we need to remember that a Christian is not free from persecution, which can be defined as anything from a serious disease to an annoying neighbor. However, suffering should not be confused with judgment or tribulation that are associated with the wrath of God.
The suffering becomes part of who we are, in order that we may also be glorified with Him. Being a follower of Christ is not easy, nor is it without struggle or pain. We are to never take the easy way, faith without effort, never accomplishes what we are called to do by God (see James 2:14-26; Titus 3:1-11; 1 John 3:18-24).
8:18 For I consider that the sufferings of this present time are not worth comparing with the glory that is to be revealed to us.
Paul reminded us of the reality of pain and suffering, which is nothing new to most human beings, but he was specifically referring to our suffering for Jesus. We can define that by any suffering that slows us down or keeps us from being a disciple. Paul now gives us a dose of reality, a glimpse at eternity. Since it would be impossible for anyone to consider what it means to be eternal, we can only speculate, theorize, or imagine, as we have nothing to relate it to. So, Paul reduces the variables of life down to two primary components, life on earth (temporary) and life eternal with Jesus. Suffering for a short period of time cannot compare to our future glory. Paul is not discounting those that have suffered most, if not all, of their lives, he is simply making an observation that a lifetime on earth cannot compare to eternity. Most people would consider that comparison to be a major understatement. In his second epistle to the church in Corinth, Paul explained our suffering on earth in this manner: “So we do not lose heart. Though our outer self is wasting away, our inner self is being renewed day by day. For this light momentary affliction is preparing for us an eternal weight of glory beyond all comparison, as we look not to the things that are seen but to the things that are unseen. For the things that are seen are transient, but the things that are unseen are eternal.” (2 Corinthians 4:16-18)
Will there be much difference between life now and life eternal? Yes, perhaps we can summarize by saying that there will be two things that we will not have anymore and two things we will obtain when we get into heaven. First of all, there will be no need for clocks, calendars, etc., as time will not exist as we know it today. Secondly, there will be no sin or anything that came about due to its corruption: no pain, no problems, no conflicts, no more bad things! Instead, we will enjoy the tangible presence of God, and we will get what was originally intended for us, what we were created to get and everything will be new, beyond anything we can imagine today (see Isaiah 65:17; 2 Corinthians 12:3-4; Revelation 21:21).
8:19 For the creation waits with eager longing for the revealing of the sons of God. 20 For the creation was subjected to futility, not willingly, but because of him who subjected it, in hope
All of creation has been eagerly waiting for the sons of God to be revealed, that would be us! We will be revealed when Jesus is revealed (see 1 Peter 5:1; 1 John 3:2). The Greek word that is translated as “eager longing,” is ‘apokaradokia’, implying head and neck being stretched out in anxious anticipation. But why would creation be eager for our revealing? All of creation was cursed as the result of sin (see Genesis 3:17-19). Paul says it was subjected to futility (Greek word ‘mataiotes’, meaning vain, empty or worthless). This includes all of creation, the universe and everything we interact with and perceive. The only exception would be the angels, they are not part of the human being redemption plan of God’s, as they do not die, fallen angels are destined to hell (see Matthew 25:41). Paul then adds that creation did not volunteer to be subjected to futility. He is not saying that nature has the ability to desire something or volunteer to do something, he is simply acknowledging that creation did not end up being compromised on its own, it was done by God. There is no “mother nature,” it’s all God, He set all things into motion, He created and established the physical laws, planetary motion, etc., including the ability to sustain everything until He desires to stop it (see Isaiah 40).
8:21 that the creation itself will be set free from its bondage to corruption and obtain the freedom of the glory of the children of God.
Creation will be free from its bondage to corruption when God’s children are revealed in glory. Man’s sin brought corruption to the universe, therefore when mankind is restored to righteousness, the universe will also be restored to its original perfection and glory. The New Living Translation renders this verse: “the creation looks forward to the day when it will join God’s children in glorious freedom from death and decay.” (NLT)
8:22 For we know that the whole creation has been groaning together in the pains of childbirth until now. 23 And not only the creation, but we ourselves, who have the firstfruits of the Spirit, groan inwardly as we wait eagerly for adoption as sons, the redemption of our bodies.
Paul adds that we know that all of creation has been groaning together in pain similar to a woman’s childbirth pains. The phrase, “in the pains of childbirth,” is the Greek word ‘synōdinō’, meaning to feel pain together, associated with childbirth pains, which were also the direct result of sin (see Genesis 3:16). Then Paul brings it close to home, that we ourselves who have the firstfruits of the Holy Spirit also groan inwardly. Okay let’s be honest, we often groan outwardly too! The Greek simply implies that we suffer and groan as we wait for the redemption of our bodies. What does Paul mean by the term ‘firstfruits’? It refers to the best portion of a crop (see Exodus 23:19; Leviticus 23:10-11; Deuteronomy 18:4). It also refers to God’s people (see Jeremiah 2:3; Revelation 14:4). We know that Jesus is our First Fruits, as evidenced by His resurrection on the day the Bible refers to as the day of “Feast of Fruitfruits” (see Leviticus 23:9-14; James 1:18). So, even though Christians have been saved and possess the “best parts” of the Holy Spirit, we are still needing to wait for the redemption of our bodies. Paul’s use of the term ‘firstfruits’, does not mean that there are any “less good” or “bad parts” of the Holy Spirit, the phrase refers to us being a highly regarded possession of God and the Holy Spirit will always be with us, even before our redemption.
To aid in clarification, let’s go back to Paul’s second epistle to the church in Corinth, where he continues by saying, “For we know that if the tent that is our earthly home is destroyed, we have a building from God, a house not made with hands, eternal in the heavens. For in this tent we groan, longing to put on our heavenly dwelling, if indeed by putting it on we may not be found naked. For while we are still in this tent, we groan, being burdened—not that we would be unclothed, but that we would be further clothed, so that what is mortal may be swallowed up by life. He who has prepared us for this very thing is God, who has given us the Spirit as a guarantee.” (2 Corinthians 5:1-5)
8:24 For in this hope we were saved. Now hope that is seen is not hope. For who hopes for what he sees? 25 But if we hope for what we do not see, we wait for it with patience.
Paul relates Christians being adopted by God, which includes all of the privileges of being children of God, to the redemption of their bodies (see verse 23). It is this yet-future action of redemption that all Christians hope for. He further points out that in this hope we have been saved. Paul then stops for a moment to make sure his readers understand what the word ‘hope’ (Greek word ‘elpis’) means, even though he has used the word several times already in this epistle. He says that hope that is seen is not hope at all (see also 2 Corinthians 4:18; Hebrews 11:1), for who hopes for what they can see already? If we hope for what we do not see, we wait for it with patience (Greek word ‘hypomunē’, steadfastness). While recognizing the element of expectation as the core meaning of the word hope implies, Paul connects it to assurance of something that will definitely happen, an actuality.
One small-scale illustration would be to compare it to hiking in Alaska in the hope of seeing the top of Mount Denali. Since during most days the weather prohibits seeing the full mountain, one can only hope that after hiking several miles that when you arrive you will see it. However, Paul is not referring to a possibility, he is talking about an absolute. Though the redemption of our bodies is yet-future for us, God considers it already done, it will happen.
Paul then connects the actuality of that hope and applies it to how the Holy Spirit helps us in our weaknesses. What weakness? We are disadvantaged in this physical realm because our bodies are still worldly. As a Christian in a “worldly world,” we might be described as “fish out of water,” we simply do not know how to exist. Questions like how should a Christian act? What should we do? What are we not to do? The Word of God along with the Holy Spirit are what guides us, even while we are still weighed down under the heavy effects of sin (see also Hebrews 12:1-2). Just like when a person goes to a new school or starting a new job, or perhaps moving to a new area, they will need guidance. Truth is, so do Christians, except in a much greater scale, we often don’t know what to do, or even know what to ask God for!
8:26 Likewise the Spirit helps us in our weakness. For we do not know what to pray for as we ought, but the Spirit himself intercedes for us with groanings too deep for words.
God knowing all of our weaknesses has provided the Holy Spirit to intercede for us! Since the Holy Spirit resides in us and knows us intimately, He can communicate in a manner that is way beyond how any word can communicate, using groanings, sighs and other inarticulate sounds on our behalf. The Holy Spirit knows our hearts and mind (see 1 Samuel 16:7; 1 Chronicles 28:9; Luke 16:15; 1 Corinthians 2:10-13; 1 Thessalonians 2:4) and since He also knows the will of God (what is and what is not acceptable, filtering out our worldly passions, lusts and desires) He can represent us better than we can do alone.
8:27 And he who searches hearts knows what is the mind of the Spirit, because the Spirit intercedes for the saints according to the will of God.
The Holy Spirit should not be considered an intermediary, like that of the role of a priest. We have direct access to God through what Jesus did on the cross and will continue to have direct access. The Holy Spirit has been given to us so that we can do what we were each called to do (see Ephesians 1:13-14). In this situation, Paul is telling us that we are never alone and regardless of where and when, we will always have access to God and He will guide us until we are all redeemed, and our bodies are glorified (see Romans 8:17, 30). God has lovingly provided all things, including effective communications to and from Him, no one will “fall through the cracks,” He wants all of His children to succeed, “And I am sure of this, that he who began a good work in you will bring it to completion at the day of Jesus Christ.” (Philippians 1:6)
8:28 And we know that for those who love God all things work together for good, for those who are called according to his purpose.
Paul summarizes how God takes care of believers by asserting the fact that we know, without question (Greek word ‘oida’, a fact that we perceive to be true), “that for those who love God all things work together for good.” This is a conditional statement, referring to those who ‘agapaõ’, unconditionally love, God. Who would that be? Is that us, do we unconditionally love God? Jesus told us who those people are: “If you love me, you will keep my commandments...If anyone loves me, he will keep my word, and my Father will love him, and we will come to him and make our home with him. Whoever does not love me does not keep my words. And the word that you hear is not mine but the Father’s who sent me.” (John 14:15, 23-24) The Apostle John also wrote: “Everyone who believes that Jesus is the Christ has been born of God, and everyone who loves the Father loves whoever has been born of him. By this we know that we love the children of God, when we love God and obey his commandments. For this is the love of God, that we keep his commandments. And his commandments are not burdensome.” (1 John 5:1-3, see also 2 John 6-7) Love and action are closely related. If you love someone, your actions will reveal your love. In this case, our love for God is revealed in our willingness to do what He has called each of us to do. This is not a reference to the Old Testament commandments of what ought not be done, but a reference to our role in His kingdom as disciples of Jesus (see also Deuteronomy 7:9).
Some manuscripts offer, “God works all things together for good,” or “God works in all things for the good,” which explains the varied translations. This verse, regardless of which version you choose, is often considered a favorite verse among Christians. Why is that? First of all, we get confirmation that God is always in control. Secondly, Paul is referring to all things, that’s right, everything. Third, working together means that all of those “things,” are going in the same direction. While the world seems to be in a state of disarray and life in general appears chaotic, the reality is that everything that is in motion is heading to a certain point to arrive at a certain time, in order to accomplish what God wants. Fourthly, and probably the hardest point for all of us to agree on, is that it leads to ‘good’, but remember only for those who love God.
This opens up another debate, what is good? To start that discussion (and possibly end it as well), we need to recognize who defines what is good and what is not good. The answer is simple, God does! How does He communicate what is good to us? The Word of God. So how does a Biblically ignorant person determine what is good and what is evil? They cannot. This is a problem since the world is rapidly pulling away from God and His Word. The prophet Isaiah wrote, “Woe to those who call evil good and good evil, who put darkness for light and light for darkness, who put bitter for sweet and sweet for bitter! Woe to those who are wise in their own eyes, and shrewd in their own sight!” (Isaiah 5:20-21) Remembering that the word “woe,” is the Hebrew word ‘hōy’, used as a prophetic announcement of judgment, this sounds like a description of much of modern thinking. There are people interpreting events today with the wrong insight. As Christians we need to understand that they are wrong (see also Matthew 24:3-5, 11), there is no replacement for God, the Bible or the Truth. Good can only be defined by our Creator. This is when we need to realize that in order to fully understand what is good, now and in the future, that requires multi-dimensional thinking outside our time continuum. In other words, we will never fully understand. As Christians, our hope extends beyond the here and now, and since God is the only one who knows the direction and all of the specifics, we need to trust and obey only Him.
8:29 For those whom he foreknew he also predestined to be conformed to the image of his Son, in order that he might be the firstborn among many brothers.
Paul continues with another conditional, for those who are called according to His purpose. The Greek word, translated here as ‘called’, is ‘kletos’, meaning to be invited, usually to do something (see 1 Corinthians 11:9; 7:17; Ephesians 4:1-3; 2 Timothy 1:8-9). Invited to do what? Paul says, as Christians we have been called according to His purpose. Paul, when he wrote to his protégé Timothy, said, “Therefore do not be ashamed of the testimony about our Lord, nor of me his prisoner, but share in suffering for the gospel by the power of God, who saved us and called us to a holy calling, not because of our works but because of his own purpose and grace, which he gave us in Christ Jesus before the ages began,” identifying God’s purpose is to offer salvation through Jesus, not because of any merit of our own, but through His grace. If God’s purpose is to offer salvation through Jesus Christ, what does Paul mean by those “called according to His purpose?” It seems clear enough; he is talking about all Christians.
Those that God foreknew (Greek word, ‘proginoskō, literally “before knowledge,” see also 1 Peter 1:2) from before time was created. Those He also predestined, translated from the Greek word, ‘proorizō’, meaning to predetermine something, something known beforehand, however, the Greek definition does not necessarily imply a destination, like the English word does. This word is used only six times in the Bible (twice here in the book of Romans, here and the next verse), it refers to God’s actions, stating both the objects (believers) and goal of His plan of salvation. What goal is that? To be conformed to the image of Jesus. The Greek word translated here as “be conformed,” implies changing to a similar form, to be like another (like a child having similar features as their parents). The word image (Greek word, ‘eikon’) refers to a resemblance, who are we to resemble? Jesus! We are to be ‘like’ Him, not to be gods ourselves, but as people who resemble a loving, caring and compassionate God. People who also strongly desire others to find and accept Jesus as their Savior.
Paul explains why, so that Jesus would be the firstborn among many believers. In the Old Testament, the term “firstborn” referred to the first son that was born in a family (often called a ‘birthright’), they had additional responsibilities as well as a few advantages, such as being the leader of the family in the parent’s absence (see Genesis 27:29); was God’s representative to the family (see Genesis 22:9; 26:25; 35:1); and they received a double-portion of any inheritance (see Deuteronomy 21:17). However, here it points to Jesus, not as someone born, but to point to His preeminence (superiority, greatness, excellence and importance), the first of those resurrected because of what He did for us (see Colossians 1:15-18; Revelation 1:5).
8:30 And those whom he predestined he also called, and those whom he called he also justified, and those whom he justified he also glorified.
Paul then continues by adding that those God predetermined (or predestined), He also called. The Greek word, translated here as ‘called’, is not the same word translated ‘called’ in verse 28, this word is ‘kaleo’, which generally refers to someone being called by name, usually out loud. And for those that He is calling, He also justified (Greek word, ‘dikaioō’), a word that Paul has already clearly defined in this epistle (see Romans 2:13; 3:4, 19-31; 4:5; 5:1-9), here referring to the One that makes believers righteous. Those that are justified, He also glorified (aorist verb, continual action), it is God who glorifies us, rendering us excellent (perfect in His eyes).
There are a number of “salvation related” terms used in the Bible and in theology, each having distinctive meanings and definitions. Even though unique and different, they cannot be separated or partially fulfilled for our salvation (for example, one cannot be justified without being known beforehand). They are all fully utilized, as Jesus did all the work, nothing was added, nor is there even the potential of something being added, by us. God did it all for us.
In Christ Nothing Can Separate Us from God’s Love
Earlier Paul made a firm statement that, “There is therefore now no condemnation for those who are in Christ Jesus.” (Romans 8:1), giving assurance that all believers are saved. Paul then continued to amplify this concept by pointing out that the Holy Spirit lives in us and helps us communicate with God, even though we are still sinners and that we still possess corrupt bodies. Paul also revealed how, as children of God, we are co-heirs with Jesus. He even spoke about our future and how glorious it will be with Jesus. Then in verses 28-30 he made it clear that Jesus did everything for us, we have absolute assurance of salvation. Paul could have stopped there, as one might ask, what more could he say? But Paul does continue, as he undoubtedly did not want any believer worrying about their security in salvation, through Christ Jesus. Especially since any believer who may have concerns regarding their own salvation, could end up being crippled and prevented from serving God (see Ephesians 2:10).
8:31 What then shall we say to these things? If God is for us, who can be against us?
Paul next asks a series of rhetorical questions, beginning with, “What then shall we say to these things? If God is for us, who can be against us?” (Romans 8:31) An interesting question, since God did all the work for our salvation, the question is essentially asking, is there someone greater than God? King David asked a similar question, “The LORD is my light and my salvation; whom shall I fear? The LORD is the stronghold of my life; of whom shall I be afraid?” (Psalm 27:1) But is our salvation through Christ at risk? Let’s explore a few possibilities.
First, can other people change the status of our salvation? Not against our salvation, but they can mislead and confuse. Confusion can be subtle, even a small, seemingly insignificant, but incorrect teaching, can later prevent spiritual growth, rendering the believer ineffective in service to God. In the book of Jude, we have been warned that corrupt influences have already penetrated the churches and Christian teaching (see Jude 4, also see Acts 20:28-30). There is no substitute for knowing the Bible, as Christians we have no excuse, as no other book matters (see Acts 17:11).
Secondly, can supernatural influences affect our salvation? Again no, neither Satan nor the dark angels can take away our salvation. However, once again they can interfere in a Christian’s life. They have many years of human observation and have created many false and highly deceptive teachings. Why do you think there are so many different religions? They are distractions intended to lure innocent people away from the truth. Satan and the fallen angels may not be able to affect a Christian’s salvation, but they are very good in finding ways to keep them from being effective in God’s Kingdom.
The third possibility would be from God Himself, would He revoke or otherwise change our salvation status? In this epistle, Paul has made it abundantly clear that our salvation is complete, plus we know that God will not lie nor, will He change His mind (see Numbers 23:19; 1 Samuel 15:29; Hebrews 6:18). We cannot fool Him, as He is omniscient and knows us better than we know ourselves (which means we can’t surprise Him, nor disappoint Him). Remember, Jesus washed away all sins, nothing can change that (see John 3:16; Romans 5:8), as the following verses in Romans will explain. Only disbelief can get in the way of salvation (also known as the only unpardonable sin, that of denying the power of the Holy Spirit, see Matthew 12:22-32 and Mark 3:22-30).
Which leads us to the fourth possibility, can we affect or change our own salvation? No, as Paul will explain shortly. But once again we can be rendered essentially useless in His Kingdom (which is the central theme of Paul’s discussion in 1 Corinthians 3:10-15).
8:32 He who did not spare his own Son but gave him up for us all, how will he not also with him graciously give us all things? 33 Who shall bring any charge against God’s elect? It is God who justifies. 34 Who is to condemn? Christ Jesus is the one who died—more than that, who was raised—who is at the right hand of God, who indeed is interceding for us.
Paul follows with additional questions, beginning with one that asks, if God didn’t spare His Son for us, what makes us think that He wouldn’t graciously give us everything we need for our salvation? In other words, God started the process and furnished everything for salvation, why would He stop now? Or only go part of the way? As some people believe. Remember, God has forgiven all things! Past, present and future. Paul’s next question is equally assuring, who is going to successfully accuse God’s elect? Note that I added the word ‘successfully’, as Satan is continually trying to accuse us (see Revelation 12:10-11, see also Zechariah 3:1; Job 1:9; 2:5). But what does Paul mean by ‘elect’? The word simply means ‘chosen’, it is used to describe in the Bible a number of people including, Jesus as being chosen to be our Savior (see Luke 23:35; John 1:34); some angels were chosen to serve God (see 1 Timothy 5:21); the exiles in Peter’s first epistle were chosen (see 1 Peter 1:1) and of course, all believers are chosen, it is often used in the New Testament as a synonym for Christians as it is being used here. Going back to the question regarding who can bring any charge against believers, Paul adds the fact that it is God who justifies and made us righteous, we did nothing. So, if God did all the work, the answer is no one! Satan is wasting his time! Paul then clarifies by asking, who then can condemn? He responds with four indisputable points that further “locks in” our security of salvation: 1) Jesus is the one who died; 2) Jesus was the one who was raised from the dead; 3) Jesus is now sitting at the right hand of God (a position of honor and authority, see Psalm 110:1; Matthew 22:44; Mark 16:19; Acts 2:33; 7:55, 56; Ephesians 1:20; Colossians 3:1; Hebrews 1:3; 8:1; 10:12; 12:2; 1 Peter 3:22; Revelation 3:21); and 4) Jesus is currently interceding for us (see Hebrews 7:25; 1 John 2:1).
8:35 Who shall separate us from the love of Christ? Shall tribulation, or distress, or persecution, or famine, or nakedness, or danger, or sword? 36 As it is written, “For your sake we are being killed all the day long; we are regarded as sheep to be slaughtered.”
Some may want to ask, why did God send His Son? Even if we do not know the reason why, God does love us, the fact that He does is also indisputable (see John 3:16; Romans 5:6-11; Ephesians 2:1-10; 2 Thessalonians 2:16-17; 1 John 3:1-18; 4:7-21). Knowing that it was love that motivated God to send His Son to die for us, Paul asks the next question, “Who shall separate us from the love of Christ?” The answer is no one, not some person nor some thing. Paul then lists seven things that believers often struggle with: 1) Tribulation, Greek word ‘thlipsis’, last seen in Romans 5:3, translated there as “sufferings,” refers to pressure or pressure rising, a metaphor for oppression, affliction or distress; 2) Distress, Greek word ‘stenochōria’, referring to something being narrow, closing in, a metaphor for extreme affliction (can include sickness or injury), found only four times in the New Testament, twice in the book of Romans; 3) Persecution, Greek word ‘diogmos’, meaning to pursue, like an enemy pursuing to inflict pain, found only ten times in the Bible, referring to persecution against Jesus or the church; 4) Famine, Greek word ‘limos’, referring to hunger or the scarcity of harvest; 5) Nakedness, Greek word ‘gymnotēs’, meaning no clothes or not having appropriate clothing; 6) Danger, Greek word ‘kindynos’, meaning peril, found nine times in the New Testament, eight of them in one verse, see 2 Corinthians 11:26; and 7) Sword, Greek word ‘machaira’, a small sword. Paul then quotes Psalm 44:22 from the Septuagint, which in this context refers to Christians being killed all the day long. In other words, Christians should not be surprised when they encounter suffering for the sake of Jesus. Remember, the world persecuted and then killed Jesus and since we carry the same message, we should expect the same treatment.
8:37 No, in all these things we are more than conquerors through him who loved us. 38 For I am sure that neither death nor life, nor angels nor rulers, nor things present nor things to come, nor powers, 39 nor height nor depth, nor anything else in all creation, will be able to separate us from the love of God in Christ Jesus our Lord.
Paul concludes this subject by adding that believers are more than conquerors, supremely victorious in overcoming all these things, but not by anything we have done or will do. It is all through God, the One that loves us! In closing, Paul adds that he is convinced that neither death nor life (our status will not change by anything we do while alive nor will anything change when we die); nor angels, nor rulers (the Greek implies a supernatural ruler); nor things present (now), nor things to come (future), nor powers (any strength, spiritual or otherwise), nor height (nothing elevated), nor depth (things of the deep), nor anything else in creation (that would literally be everything), will be able to separate us from the love of God in Christ Jesus. God’s love is unchangeable and complete. Nothing can change that!
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[1] Baxter, R., & Orme, W. (1830). The Practical Works of the Rev. Richard Baxter (Vol. 14, pp. 54–55). London: James Duncan.
[2] The Holy Bible: English Standard Version. (2016). Wheaton: Standard Bible Society.