Romans 8

-8 1 3 2 -9 1 0 0 0 0 13 96 -9 2 0 0 2 0 1 RVStyle2 7 StyleNameNormal textFontNameArialUnicode Size Standard StyleNameDefaultFontNameTahomaUnicode Size Standard StyleNameJumpFontNameTahomaStylefsUnderlineColorclBlue HoverColorclMaroonHoverEffects rvheUnderlineUnicode Jump Size Standard StyleNameHeading - Module name SizeDoubleFontNameTahomaColorclMaroonUnicode SizeStandard StyleName"Heading small - Module descriptionFontNameTahomaColorclMaroonUnicode Size Standard StyleNameHeading - LinkFontNameTahomaColorclNavy HoverColorclPurpleUnicode Jump Size Standard StyleNameDefaultFontNameTahomaStylefsUnderlineColorclBlueUnicode Jump Size Standard StyleNameDefaultFontNameTahomaColorclBlue HoverColorclMaroonNextStyleNoUnicode Jump Size -9 2 0 0 2 0 2 RVStyle2 WBiDiModervbdLeftToRightTabs StyleNameCentered Alignment rvaCenterTabs-9 2 0 0 2 0 4 RVStyle2 -9 0 0 0 0 0 7 1 32 0 8 0 0 CHAPTER 8) Outline (continued)) Justification by Faith) 4a. No condemnation for those in Christ Jesus. The indwelling Spirit imparts life to them, assures them of the realization of their hope of eagerly awaited glory, helps them in their infirmities, and intercedes for them, so that everything turns out for their welfare. The three groanings.) And we know that all things work together for good to those who love God, that is, to those who are called according to his purpose. ) 8:1 30 ) 4b. It produces the fruit of super-invincibility; i.e., of being more than conquerors.) No, in all these things we are more than conquerors through him who loved us ) 8:31 39 ) ) 4a. No condemnation for those in Christ Jesus.

The indwelling Spirit imparts life to them, assures them of the realization of their hope of eagerly awaited glory, helps them in their infirmities, and intercedes for them, so that everything turns out for their welfare. The three groanings) And we know that all things work together for good to those who love God, that is, to those who are called according to his purpose ) 8:1 30) 8 1 There is therefore now no condemnation for those who are in Christ Jesus. 2 For through Christ Jesus the law of the Spirit of life has set me��206�� free from the law of sin and of death. 3 For what the law could not do, because it was weak through the flesh, God did: by sending his own Son in the likeness of sinful flesh and for sin, he condemned sin in the flesh, 4 in order that the righteous requirement of the law might be fully met in us, who do not walk according to the flesh but according to the Spirit. 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 Now the mind of the flesh is death, but the mind of the Spirit is life and peace; 7 because the mind of the flesh is hostility to God, for it does not submit to the law of God, nor can it do so. 8 And those who are in the flesh cannot please God.) 9 You, however, are not in the flesh but in the Spirit, seeing that God s Spirit dwells in you. (Anyone who does not possess Christ s Spirit does not belong to Christ.) 10 But if Christ is in you, though the body is dead because of sin, yet the Spirit is life because of (your) justification. 11 And if the Spirit of him who raised Jesus from the dead dwells in you, he who raised Christ from the dead will also impart life to your mortal bodies through his Spirit, who dwells in you.) 12 Therefore, brothers, we have an obligation, but it is not to the flesh, to live according to its standard. 13 For if you live according to its standard you are doomed to die; but if, by the Spirit, you put to death the disgraceful deeds of the body, you will live. 14 For as many as are being led by the Spirit of God, these are sons of God. 15 For you have not received a spirit of slavery, to fill you once more with dread, but you have received the Spirit of adoption, who moves us to cry, Abba!, that is, Father! 16 This 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; since the fact that we are now sharing in his sufferings means that (hereafter) we shall share in his glory. 18 For I consider that the sufferings of this present time are not worthy to be compared with the glory that is to be revealed in us.) 19 For the creation, with outstretched head, is eagerly looking forward to the revelation of the sons of God. 20 For it was not by its own choice that the creation was subjected to futility, but (it was) because of him who subjected it, in hope, 21 because the creation itself too will be set free from its bondage to decay, so as to share the glorious liberty of the children of God. 22 For we know that the whole creation, with one accord, has been, and still is, groaning as in the pain of childbirth.) 23 Not only this, but also we ourselves, who possess the firstfruits of the Spirit, even we ourselves groan within ourselves, as we eagerly await our adoption, that is, the redemption of our bodies. 24 For it was in hope that we were saved; but when once something hoped for is seen it is no longer an object of hope, for who hopes for what he sees? 25 But since we hope for that which we do not see, we wait for it with patient endurance.) 26 And in the same way the Spirit too is helping us in our weakness, for we do not know what we ought to pray, but the Spirit himself intercedes for us with unspoken groanings. 27 And he who searches the hearts knows what is the Spirit s intention, that he is interceding for the saints in harmony with God s will.) 28 And we know that to those who love God all things work together for good, that is, to those who are called according to (his) purpose. 29 For whom he foreknew, he also foreordained to be conformed to the image of his Son, so that he might be the firstborn among many brothers; 30 and whom he foreordained, these he also called; and whom he called, these he also justified; and whom he justified, these he also glorified.) ) As was true with respect to chapters 5, 6, and 7, so also chapter 8 points to a result of the believers justification by faith. The fact that justification is indeed at the center of Paul s thinking is clear from the opening words, There is now no condemnation, for condemnation is the opposite of justification.) Moreover, as has been stated previously, Paul himself seems to endorse the co-ordination of chapters 5, 6, and 7, causing each to close with the same (or a very similar) phrase. This holds too for chapter 8, ending with in Christ Jesus our Lord. ) The question as to the theme of this chapter is easily answered. It is not expressed immediately, though everything in verses 1 30, and again in verses 31 36, leads up to it; as, for example, verse 28, printed above the present section, indicates. The central thought, which is also the fourth main fruit of justification by faith, is found in the words, No, in all these things we are more than conquerors through him who loved us (verse 37).

Note: not merely conquerors but more than conquerors; not merely invincible but super-invincible.) 1. There is therefore now no condemnation for those who are in Christ Jesus.��207��) The statement, There is therefore now no condemnation is closely connected with the main thrust of Paul s previous reasoning, taken as a unit. See especially verses 1:16, 17; 3:21, 24; 5:1, 2, 6 8, 15 21; 7:6. In these passages the apostle has been setting forth the fact that, through Christ s debt-removing and sanctifying self-sacrifice, believers have been released from the curse of the law. Because of the entrance of sin (cf. 8:3) the law cannot now be regarded as a means of obtaining salvation, nor does it have the power to condemn believers. Rather, the law is the means for the expression of their gratitude.

As such it is the object of their delight, even though, as 7:14f. has shown, in the present life complete obedience is impossible.) This does not mean that there is no connection between 8:1 f. and the immediately preceding context. As has been indicated see pp. 238, 239 there is a close connection between Thanks be to God through Christ Jesus our Lord (7:25a) and There is therefore now no condemnation, etc. (8:1). But even what Paul says in 7:25b and more generally in 6:1 7:25 about the enslaving power of sin, is not absent from his mind in 8:1, as the sequel (8:1 f.) indicates. For Paul no condemnation means freedom not only from sin s guilt but also from its enslaving power.) To be sure, a distinction must be drawn between justification and sanctification. But this distinction must never become a separation. Calvin has made this clear by stating, As Christ cannot be divided, so also these two blessings which we receive together in him are also inseparable (Institutes III, xi, 6).) In line with this twofold reference of the words no condemnation is the phrase in Christ Jesus.

What Paul is saying is that for those who not only forensically are in Christ Jesus the guilt of their sins having been removed by his death but also spiritually the sanctifying influences of his Spirit dominating their lives, there is now (=consequently) no condemnation. For them there is justification and therefore salvation full and free (see 8:29, 30). For more on the phrase in Christ Jesus see above on 3:24, p. 131, and on 6:3 f., p. 196. See also N.T.C. on Ephesians, pp. 70, 71.) Justification and sanctification always go together. The fact that the expression no condemnation implies both pardon and purification is also clear from verse) 2. For through Christ Jesus the law of the Spirit of life has set me free from the law of sin and of death.��208��) 1 1 0 8 0 “tw://bible.?id=1.1.1|AUTODETECT|” Paul speaks about the law of the Spirit of life. That the Holy Spirit is life in his very essence and also imparts life, both physical and spiritual, is clear from ever so many passages of Scripture. The basis for this doctrine is probably found already in ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=1.1.1|AUTODETECT|” Gen. 1:1) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=19.51.11|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=19.51.11|AUTODETECT|” Ps. 51:11) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=19.104.30|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=19.104.30|AUTODETECT|” 104:30) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=43.6.63|AUTODETECT|” . For closer references see ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=43.6.63|AUTODETECT|” John 6:63) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=47.3.6|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=47.3.6|AUTODETECT|” II Cor. 3:6) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=48.6.8|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=48.6.8|AUTODETECT|” Gal. 6:8) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=45.8.11|AUTODETECT|” ; and do not forget ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=45.8.11|AUTODETECT|” Rom. 8:11) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=45.6.23|AUTODETECT|” . The law of the Spirit of life is the forceful and effective operation of the Holy Spirit in the hearts and lives of God s children. It is the very opposite of the law of sin and death, for which see on 7:23, 25. Just as the law of sin produces death, so also the law, or ruling factor, of the Spirit of life brings about life. Cf. ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=45.6.23|AUTODETECT|” Rom. 6:23) 1 1 -1 9 0 0 . It does this through Christ Jesus, that is, on the basis of the merits of his atonement, and by means of the vitalizing power of union with him.) 1 1 0 8 0 “tw://bible.?id=45.7.14-45.8.2|AUTODETECT|” The question arises, If in ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=45.7.14-45.8.2|AUTODETECT|” Rom. 7:14 8:2) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=45.7.14|AUTODETECT|” Paul throughout speaks about himself as a believer, how can he say not only, I am carnal, sold as a slave to sin & a prisoner (7:14, 23); but also, Through Christ Jesus the law of the Spirit of life has set me free from the law of sin and death ? How can a slave and prisoner also be a free person? Does not this very contradiction show that we have erroneously interpreted ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=45.7.14|AUTODETECT|” Rom. 7:14) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=45.7.23|AUTODETECT|” , ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=45.7.23|AUTODETECT|” 23) 1 1 -1 9 0 0 ?) 1 1 0 8 0 “tw://bible.?id=24.17.9|AUTODETECT|” The answer is, Not at all. On the contrary, when we read these passages both 7:14, 23 and 8:1, 2, we say, How wonderful is the Word of God! What a true picture it draws of the person I really am! On the one hand I am a slave, a prisoner, for sin has such control over me that I cannot lead a sinless life 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=24.17.9|AUTODETECT|” Jer. 17:9) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=40.6.12|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=40.6.12|AUTODETECT|” Matt. 6.12) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=62.1.8|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=62.1.8|AUTODETECT|” I John 1:8) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=62.1.10|AUTODETECT|” , ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=62.1.10|AUTODETECT|” 10) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=48.5.1|AUTODETECT|” ). Yet, on the other hand, I am a free person, for though Satan tries with all his might and trickery to keep me from doing what is right such as trusting God for my salvation, invoking him in prayer, rejoicing in him, working for his causes, etc., he cannot throughout stop me from doing so. He cannot completely prevent me from experiencing the peace of God that transcends all understanding. The sense of victory, which I possess in principle even now and will possess in perfection in the future, sustains me in all my struggles. I rejoice in the freedom which Christ has earned for me! 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=48.5.1|AUTODETECT|” Gal. 5:1) 1 1 -1 9 0 0 ).) 1 3 0 8 0 0 When an interpreter of 7:21 8:2 limits Christian experience to what is found in 7:22, 25a, 8:1, 2, leaving out 7:21, 23, 24, 25b, does he not resemble the musician who tries to play an elaborate piece on an organ with a very restricted number of octaves, or on a harp with many broken strings?) 3, 4. For what the law could not do, because it was weak through the flesh, God did: by sending his own Son in the likeness of sinful flesh and for sin, he condemned sin in the flesh, in order that the righteous requirement of the law might be fulfilled in us, who do not walk according to the flesh but according to the Spirit.) a. For what the law could not do, because it was weak through the flesh, God did.) 1 1 0 8 0 “tw://bible.?id=49.1.4|AUTODETECT|” The word For indicates that what, according to verses 3, 4, God accomplished by sending his Son into the world, is the basis of the believer s freedom (verse 2). The law was unable to provide this basis. That, however, was not the law s fault. Sinful human nature ( the flesh, see p. 217) was to blame. It was that which made perfect obedience impossible. Does this mean, then, that sinners are never going to be saved, and that God s plan, made before the founding of the world 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=49.1.4|AUTODETECT|” Eph. 1:4) 1 1 -1 9 0 0 ), is not going to be carried out? It does not, for O glorious divine love! what the law was unable to accomplish God accomplished! It was he who, by sending into the world his own Son to die for sinners, satisfied the demands of justice, thereby setting sinners free and flooding their hearts with love for God and a desire to do his will out of gratitude.) 1 1 0 8 0 0 b. by sending his own Son.) 1 1 0 8 0 “tw://bible.?id=1.22.2|AUTODETECT|” What depth of feeling, what compassion, what pathos is contained in this expression! Involuntarily our mind travels back to ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=1.22.2|AUTODETECT|” Gen. 22:2) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=43.3.16|AUTODETECT|” (God addressing Abraham), Take now your son, your only son, whom you love, Isaac & and offer him for a burnt offering.& See also ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=43.3.16|AUTODETECT|” John 3:16) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=40.21.37|AUTODETECT|” , For so loved God the world that his Son, the only-begotten he gave.& Cf. ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=40.21.37|AUTODETECT|” Matt. 21:37) 1 1 -1 9 0 0 .) 1 2 0 8 0 0 Philosophers may argue that implied in the doctrine of God s immutability is the fact that the Divine Being cannot experience any emotions. The question may be asked whether that inference does full justice to such passages in this epistle as the present one and 8:32 . In order to save us, God did not spare his own yes, his very own, his dear and only Son. He caused him to descend to hell for us, the hell climaxed at Calvary.��209��) c. in the likeness of sinful flesh.) 1 1 0 8 0 “tw://bible.?id=1.1.31|AUTODETECT|” In his incarnation the divine Son assumed the human nature, so that from that moment on he has two natures, the divine and the human, indissolubly united, yet each retaining its own properties. But he took on that human nature not as it came originally from the hand of the Creator 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=1.1.31|AUTODETECT|” Gen. 1:31) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=50.2.7|AUTODETECT|” ), but weakened by sin, though remaining itself without any sin. Note: not in sinful flesh but in the likeness of sinful flesh. He emptied himself, assuming the form of a servant 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=50.2.7|AUTODETECT|” Phil. 2:7) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=47.8.9|AUTODETECT|” ). Though he was rich, yet for our sake he became poor 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=47.8.9|AUTODETECT|” II Cor. 8:9) 1 1 -1 9 0 0 ). See also N.T.C. on Philippians, pp. 102 113.) 1 3 0 8 0 0 d. and for sin.) Probable meaning: and in order to deal with sin.��210��) e. He condemned sin in the flesh, in order that the righteous requirement��211�� of the law might be fulfilled in us.) 1 1 0 8 0 “tw://bible.?id=3.19.18|AUTODETECT|” That righteous requirement is clearly indicated in such passages as ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=3.19.18|AUTODETECT|” Lev. 19:18) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=5.6.5|AUTODETECT|” b; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=5.6.5|AUTODETECT|” Deut. 6:5) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=33.6.8|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=33.6.8|AUTODETECT|” Mic. 6:8) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=40.22.35-40.22.40|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=40.22.35-40.22.40|AUTODETECT|” Matt. 22:35 40) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=41.12.28-41.12.34|AUTODETECT|” 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=41.12.28-41.12.34|AUTODETECT|” Mark 12:28 34) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=42.10.25-42.10.28|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=42.10.25-42.10.28|AUTODETECT|” Luke 10:25 28) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=40.23.23|AUTODETECT|” ). See also ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=40.23.23|AUTODETECT|” Matt. 23:23) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=42.11.42|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=42.11.42|AUTODETECT|” Luke 11:42) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=45.13.9|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=45.13.9|AUTODETECT|” Rom. 13:9) 1 1 -1 9 0 0 .) 1 1 0 8 0 “tw://bible.?id=23.53.4-23.53.6|AUTODETECT|” It was in Christ s flesh, his human nature, that God condemned and punished��212�� the sins of his people. It was in his people s place that Jesus bore God s wrath. See ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=23.53.4-23.53.6|AUTODETECT|” Isa. 53:4 6) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=23.53.8|AUTODETECT|” , ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=23.53.8|AUTODETECT|” 8) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=23.53.11|AUTODETECT|” , ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=23.53.11|AUTODETECT|” 11) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=40.20.28|AUTODETECT|” b; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=40.20.28|AUTODETECT|” Matt. 20:28) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=41.10.45|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=41.10.45|AUTODETECT|” Mark 10:45) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=43.1.29|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=43.1.29|AUTODETECT|” John 1:29) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=43.10.11|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=43.10.11|AUTODETECT|” 10:11) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=43.10.15|AUTODETECT|” , ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=43.10.15|AUTODETECT|” 15) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=45.5.6-45.5.9|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=45.5.6-45.5.9|AUTODETECT|” Rom. 5:6 9) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=45.5.18|AUTODETECT|” , ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=45.5.18|AUTODETECT|” 18) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=45.5.19|AUTODETECT|” , ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=45.5.19|AUTODETECT|” 19) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=47.5.21|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=47.5.21|AUTODETECT|” II Cor. 5:21) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=48.3.13|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=48.3.13|AUTODETECT|” Gal. 3:13) 1 1 -1 9 0 0 . The purpose and result of Christ s work of redemption was that his people, by means of the operation of the Holy Spirit in their hearts and lives, should strive, are striving, to fulfil the law s righteous requirement. Out of gratitude for, and in response to, the outpouring of God s love, they now love God and their neighbor.) 1 1 0 8 0 0 f. who do not walk according to the flesh but according to the Spirit.) 1 1 0 8 0 “tw://bible.?id=48.5.16-48.5.25|AUTODETECT|” Such devout conduct, being the result of the Holy Spirit s active indwelling, reveals the fruit of the Spirit. The opposite way of life, that which is according to the flesh stems from men s sinful nature and is characterized by the acts associated with that nature. For both see ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=48.5.16-48.5.25|AUTODETECT|” Gal. 5:16 25) 1 1 -1 9 0 0 . Does not the present passage give a hint with respect to the obligation voiced in verses 12, 13?) 1 6 0 8 0 0 5 8. 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. Now the mind of the flesh is death, but the mind of the Spirit is life and peace; because the mind of the flesh is hostility to God, for it does not submit to the law of God, nor can it do so. And those who are in the flesh cannot please God.) As the word For indicates, verse 5 (in a sense verses 5 8 considered as a unit) gives a further description of the two classes of people to whom reference was made in verse 4b: (a) those who walk according to the flesh (their existence implied in verse 4b), and (b) those who walk according to the Spirit (their existence mentioned in verse 4b).) Those who live according to the flesh allow their lives to be basically determined by their sinful human nature. They set their minds on are most deeply interested in, constantly talk about, engage and glory in the things pertaining to the flesh, that is, to sinful human nature.) Those who live according to the Spirit, and therefore submit to the Spirit s direction, concentrate their attention on, and specialize in, whatever is dear to the Spirit. In the conflict between God and sinful human nature the first group sides with��213�� human nature; the second sides with God.) Paul is reminding the members of the church in Rome that it is impossible to be on both sides at once; that is, the basic this adjective should be stressed! disposition or direction of our lives is either on God s side or on the side of sinful human nature.

If a person persists in being worldly, he is on the side of the world and must expect the world s doom. On the other hand, if the things concerning God and his kingdom are his chief concern, he can expect life: sweet communion with God, God s love shed abroad in the heart, joy unspeakable and full of glory, all this and far more forever and ever. See on 2:7, pp. 92, 93.) He can expect peace: the inner assurance that past sins are forgiven, that present events, no matter how painful, are being overruled for good, and that nothing that might occur in the future will be able to separate him from the love of God in Christ. Such peace means basic freedom from fear and from restlessness. It implies contentment, sense of security, inner tranquility.) 1 1 0 8 0 “tw://bible.?id=19.4.8|AUTODETECT|” Among the many passages of Scripture where peace is mentioned are ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=19.4.8|AUTODETECT|” Ps. 4:8) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=19.37.37|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=19.37.37|AUTODETECT|” 37:37) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=19.119.165|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=19.119.165|AUTODETECT|” 119:165) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=23.26.3|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=23.26.3|AUTODETECT|” Isa. 26:3) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=23.48.22|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=23.48.22|AUTODETECT|” 48:22) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=42.1.79|AUTODETECT|” (cf. 57:21); ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=42.1.79|AUTODETECT|” Luke 1:79) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=42.2.14|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=42.2.14|AUTODETECT|” 2:14) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=43.14.27|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=43.14.27|AUTODETECT|” John 14:27) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=45.5.1|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=45.5.1|AUTODETECT|” Rom. 5:1) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=45.14.17|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=45.14.17|AUTODETECT|” 14:17) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=45.15.13|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=45.15.13|AUTODETECT|” 15:13) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=45.15.33|AUTODETECT|” , ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=45.15.33|AUTODETECT|” 33) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=50.4.7|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=50.4.7|AUTODETECT|” Philippians 4:7) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=50.4.12|AUTODETECT|” , ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=50.4.12|AUTODETECT|” 12) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=19.122.7|AUTODETECT|” . See also the Pauline and Petrine opening salutations. Often, especially in the Old Testament, the line of demarcation between peace and prosperity or well-being is almost imperceptible; cf. ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=19.122.7|AUTODETECT|” Ps. 122:7) 1 1 -1 9 0 0 .) 1 2 0 8 0 0 When Paul says, & but the mind of the Spirit is life and peace, does he mean that the believer is never disturbed? Does he intend to say that the Christian s heart and mind are always filled with perfect peace, and therefore, that the exclamation, Wretched man that I am! (7:24) could not have been uttered by the child of God?) The answer must be, Not at all. Though the basic disposition of the person whose life is controlled by the Holy Spirit is indeed life and peace, this does not mean that such an individual is no longer deeply sorry for his sin and ardently wishing to be rid of it. In fact, the more thoroughly he is under the Spirit s control, the knowledge of which gives him life and peace, the more also he will regret and fight against his still remaining sinfulness!) 1 1 0 8 0 “tw://bible.?id=40.16.16|AUTODETECT|” The idea that the believer is a person who is always staying on an even keel should be given up. A believer s life is not that simple. It is tremendously complex. Are we willing to say that Simon Peter, the man who made the great confession 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=40.16.16|AUTODETECT|” Matt. 16:16) 1 1 -1 9 0 0 ), was not a believer? Read what Jesus said about him (16:17). Nevertheless, it was Peter who afterward denied his Lord, and this not once but thrice!) 1 1 0 8 0 “tw://bible.?id=19.77.0|AUTODETECT|” And the writer of ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=19.77.0|AUTODETECT|” Ps. 77) 1 1 -1 9 0 0 , was he not a believer? Yet, what a struggle he endured!) 1 20 0 8 0 0 The thought of God brought me no peace,) But rather made my fears increase;) With sleepless eyes and speechless pain) My fainting spirit grieved in vain.) The blessedness of long ago) Made deeper still my present woe.) Recalling days when faith was bright,) When songs of gladness filled my night,) I pondered o er my grievous woes) And searching questioning arose:) Will God cast off and nevermore) His favor to my soul restore?) The Lord answers his plea, so that his response is:) These doubts and fears that troubled me) Were born of my infirmity.) Though I am weak, God is most high,) And on his goodness I rely;) Of all his wonders I will tell,) And on his deeds my thoughts shall dwell.) Does this mean, then, that the believer is a split personality ? When this term is used to indicate a personality structure composed of two or more behavior patterns, each apparently operating independently of the other(s), it would, of course, be improper to use it in connection with the present subject. And since we cannot always know in what sense this term is used, might it not be best to avoid it altogether in the present context?) 1 1 0 8 0 “tw://bible.?id=19.77.0|AUTODETECT|” However, according to the plain language of Scripture, and the testimony of ever so many Christians, even the believer may experience a tremendous struggle between the old man and the new man, between doubt and trust, unrest and peace. In addition to ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=19.77.0|AUTODETECT|” Ps. 77) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=19.73.0|AUTODETECT|” see also ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=19.73.0|AUTODETECT|” Ps. 73) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=48.5.17|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=48.5.17|AUTODETECT|” Gal. 5:17) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=49.4.22|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=49.4.22|AUTODETECT|” Eph. 4:22) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=49.6.10|AUTODETECT|” f.; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=49.6.10|AUTODETECT|” 6:10) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=58.12.4|AUTODETECT|” f.; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=58.12.4|AUTODETECT|” Heb. 12:4) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=23.26.3|AUTODETECT|” . To be sure, the Christian is comforted by ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=23.26.3|AUTODETECT|” Isa. 26:3) 1 1 -1 9 0 0 , Thou wilt keep him in perfect peace whose mind is stayed on thee, but during his earthly life the believer s mind is not always stayed on God. It is not always steadfast.) 1 1 0 8 0 “tw://bible.?id=40.14.29|AUTODETECT|” As long as Peter s faith was fixed on Jesus he was able to walk on water, But when he saw the wind he was afraid and & cried out, Lord, save me! 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=40.14.29|AUTODETECT|” Matt. 14:29) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=40.14.30|AUTODETECT|” , ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=40.14.30|AUTODETECT|” 30) 1 1 -1 9 0 0 ).) 1 1 0 8 0 “tw://bible.?id=45.7.14-45.7.25|AUTODETECT|” It is clear, therefore, that the interpretation of ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=45.7.14-45.7.25|AUTODETECT|” Rom. 7:14 25) 1 1 -1 9 0 0 which this interpreter, in common with many others and with the Evangelical Confessions, holds, must stand.) 1 2 0 8 0 0 Nevertheless, when one compares the mind of unbelievers with that of believers, as Paul does in 8:5 8, the contrast is striking, for basically the mind of believers, that is, the mind of the Spirit, is life and peace. The very opposite is true with respect to the mind of unbelievers, a mind that is hostile to God. And since this is true, it stands to reason that the fruit of this mind or disposition is death (verse 6).) Such a mind is self-centered, which explains the fact that it does not submit itself to God s law. In fact, as long as it continues to concentrate its attention upon itself, it is, of course, not even able to submit to God. Those people who are in the flesh, that is, who in their affections, purposes, thoughts, words, and deeds, are basically controlled by their sinful nature, are unable to please God.) 1 1 0 8 0 “tw://bible.?id=45.12.1|AUTODETECT|” It is interesting and instructive to note how often Scripture, especially Paul, describes the purpose of human life to be that of pleasing God 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=45.12.1|AUTODETECT|” Rom. 12:1) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=45.12.2|AUTODETECT|” , ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=45.12.2|AUTODETECT|” 2) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=45.14.18|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=45.14.18|AUTODETECT|” 14:18) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=46.7.32|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=46.7.32|AUTODETECT|” I Cor. 7:32) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=47.5.9|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=47.5.9|AUTODETECT|” II Cor. 5:9) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=49.5.10|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=49.5.10|AUTODETECT|” Eph. 5:10) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=50.4.18|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=50.4.18|AUTODETECT|” Phil. 4:18) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=51.3.20|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=51.3.20|AUTODETECT|” Col. 3:20) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=52.4.1|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=52.4.1|AUTODETECT|” I Thess. 4:1) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=51.3.20|AUTODETECT|” ). Paul even exhorts children to obey their parents in everything for this pleases the Lord 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=51.3.20|AUTODETECT|” Col. 3:20) 1 1 -1 9 0 0 ); as if to say, It fills God s heart with delight. God s heart is not an iceberg! In this connection see what was said previously (p. 247), with reference to God sending his own Son. ) 1 1 0 8 0 “tw://bible.?id=45.15.3|AUTODETECT|” Paul, either explicitly or by implication, expresses his disapproval upon those who please not God but themselves. Cf. ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=45.15.3|AUTODETECT|” Rom. 15:3) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=52.2.15|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=52.2.15|AUTODETECT|” I Thess. 2:15) 1 1 -1 9 0 0 .) 1 1 0 8 0 “tw://bible.?id=62.3.22|AUTODETECT|” Like Paul, the apostle John also regards doing what is pleasing to God as being the true goal of the believers life. He points out how God regards this kind of life 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=62.3.22|AUTODETECT|” I John 3:22) 1 1 -1 9 0 0 ). And the author of Hebrews directs the attention of the readers to the fact that without faith it is impossible to please God (11:6).) 1 18 0 8 0 0 From those who are in the flesh and therefore cannot please God (verse 8) Paul s attention now turns more directly to the members of the church to which he is writing. With the warmth of heart that is characteristic of a true pastor he addresses them as follows:) 9 11. You, however, are not in the flesh but in the Spirit, seeing that God s Spirit dwells in you. (Anyone who does not possess Christ s Spirit does not belong to Christ.) But if Christ is in you, though the body is dead because of sin, yet the Spirit is life because of (your) justification. And if the Spirit of him who raised Jesus from the dead dwells in you, he who raised Christ from the dead will also impart life to your mortal bodies through the Spirit, who dwells in you.) The meaning of the entire passage, viewed in light of the immediately preceding context, can be summarized as follows:) You, by contrast, are not basically under the control of sinful human nature but of the Spirit. You are therefore not unable to please God, since God s Spirit is dwelling in you. (Now if there should be anyone who shows by his life and actions that he does not possess the Spirit of Christ, such a person does not belong to Christ. He is not a Christian at all.) But if Christ is living in you, then, though because of sin the body must die, nevertheless, because you have been justified, the Spirit, himself Life, is alive within you.

And if that Spirit, namely, the Spirit of him who raised Jesus from the dead, is dwelling in you, then he who raised Christ from the dead will, on the day of the resurrection, impart life also to your mortal bodies. He will do it through the agency of the Spirit who is dwelling within you.) Brief comment on words and phrases:) a. You, however, are not in the flesh but in the Spirit & ) Lovingly Paul assures the addressees that, as far as the basic direction of their life is concerned, they are under the control not of sinful human nature but of the Spirit. This implies that, speaking collectively, they do not belong to the category of those concerning whom the apostle just now (verse 8) has stated that they cannot please God.) b. seeing that God s Spirit dwells in you. ) The rendering if the Spirit of God dwells in you, as if Paul was not sure about the collective indwelling of the Holy Spirit in the hearts of these people, is incorrect. In view of what the apostle says about them in 1:6, 8; 15:14, such a low estimate on his part must be rejected.��214��) c. (Anyone who does not possess Christ s Spirit does not belong to Christ.) More literally: (If anyone does not have the Spirit of Christ, he is not of his). ) Though, speaking collectively, the apostle has assured the Roman congregation that he regards it as being under the control of, and indwelt by, the Spirit, this does not mean that a church member can take his salvation for granted, in the sense that self-examination would no longer be necessary. Besides, in the church of Rome by no means everything was perfect.

See 11:17 25; 14:10 15, 19; 15:1f.) Paul states that if anyone s life marks him as lacking Christ s Spirit, he has no right to consider himself a Christian.) Note in this verse the interchange of the designations God s Spirit and Christ s Spirit. This certainly indicates that in Paul s thinking Christ was fully divine.) d. But if Christ is in you, though the body is dead because of sin, yet the Spirit is life because of your justification. ) Meaning: not only is it true that because of sin the body of each of you is bound to die, but it is also true that because you are justified you can be assured of the fact that the Spirit, who is Life and life s Author, is dwelling within you.) The word Spirit, occurring in verse 10, should not be spelled with a small s, as if the reference were to any person s invisible entity, but, with a capital S, for the apostle is definitely thinking of the Holy Spirit. Proof:) (1) In all the preceding eight instances of its use (verses 1 9) the word pneuma (Greek word for the divine Spirit as well as for the human spirit) refers to the Holy Spirit. In verse 11 the apostle refers twice to this Spirit . It would be rather strange, then, if the intervening pneuma (here in verse 10) would have a different meaning.) (2) The pneuma of verse 10 is taken up again in verse 11.

Note resemblance: verse 11 refers to the life-imparting Spirit, naturally the Holy Spirit. This corresponds to the pneuma of life of verse 10.) 1 1 0 8 0 “tw://bible.?id=43.14.6|AUTODETECT|” (3) Also in verse 2 of the present chapter the Holy Spirit is called the Spirit of life. Similarly in ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=43.14.6|AUTODETECT|” John 14:6) 1 1 -1 9 0 0 Jesus calls himself the life. ) 1 2 0 8 0 0 e. And if the Spirit of him who raised Jesus from the dead dwells in you, he who raised Christ from the dead will also impart life to your mortal bodies through his Spirit, who dwells in you. ) It is clear from verses 9 11 that the designations Spirit, God s Spirit, Christ s Spirit, the Spirit of him who raised Jesus from the dead, and his Spirit who dwells in you, all refer to the same Holy Spirit. The variety of titles is by no means meaningless. It indicates the glorious unity existing between Father, Son, and Holy Spirit, a unity not only of essence (ontological oneness) but also of operation in the interest of our salvation.) 1 1 0 8 0 “tw://bible.?id=43.14.26|AUTODETECT|” Similarly ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=43.14.26|AUTODETECT|” John 14:26) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=43.16.7|AUTODETECT|” informs us that the Father was going to send the Holy Spirit; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=43.16.7|AUTODETECT|” John 16:7) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=43.14.16|AUTODETECT|” , that the Son would send him. There is no contradiction but glorious harmony. Note ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=43.14.16|AUTODETECT|” John 14:16) 1 1 -1 9 0 0 , I will ask the Father, and he will give you & the Spirit of truth. Also 14:26, the Holy Spirit, whom the Father will send in my name. ) 1 1 0 8 0 “tw://bible.?id=45.6.4|AUTODETECT|” In verse 11 the subject He who raised Jesus or Christ from the dead, refers, of course, to the Father. Does it not also follow from such passages as ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=45.6.4|AUTODETECT|” Rom. 6:4) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=48.1.1|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=48.1.1|AUTODETECT|” Gal. 1:1) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=49.1.20|AUTODETECT|” ; and ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=49.1.20|AUTODETECT|” Eph. 1:20) 1 1 -1 9 0 0 that in the activity of raising the Savior from the dead it was the Father who, as it were, took the lead?) 1 1 0 8 0 “tw://bible.?id=43.10.17|AUTODETECT|” But note how very closely the two other persons of the Holy Trinity are related to the Father, hence also to each other. That the Father acts through the Spirit is plainly stated in verse 11. That even Jesus himself did not remain entirely passive in his resurrection is implied in ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=43.10.17|AUTODETECT|” John 10:17) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=43.10.18|AUTODETECT|” , ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=43.10.18|AUTODETECT|” 18) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=45.8.11|AUTODETECT|” . It is he who claims the power not only to lay down his life but also to take it up again. Moreover, the very One who in ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=45.8.11|AUTODETECT|” Rom. 8:11) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=43.5.23|AUTODETECT|” is described as the Spirit of the Father is in verse 9 called Christ s Spirit. In fact, as it were in the same breath, God s Spirit is in verse 9 called Christ s Spirit. The relationship between Father, Son, and Holy Spirit is so close, the union so intimate and indissoluble, that it is impossible to dishonor the Son without also dishonoring the Father and the Holy Spirit. Cf. ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=43.5.23|AUTODETECT|” John 5:23) 1 1 -1 9 0 0 .) 1 1 0 8 0 0 This truth is filled with practical significance. We are living in an age in which in some evangelistic circles a disproportionate interest is shown in Jesus, as if honor and glory should be ascribed to the Son alone. Others, again, filled with the wrong kind of ecumenical fervor, the kind that aims at uniting all religious bodies into one huge world-church, minimize the work of the Savior and emphasize that all men are brothers, God being the Father of them all. And a third party, of late becoming more vocal, magnifies charismatic gifts, and cannot stop talking about the Spirit.) 1 1 0 8 0 “tw://bible.?id=45.8.9-45.8.11|AUTODETECT|” As ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=45.8.9-45.8.11|AUTODETECT|” Rom. 8:9 11) 1 1 -1 9 0 0 shows, and as Scripture throughout proves, it is God Triune, that is, Father, Son, and Holy Spirit, the one and only true God, who should be the central object of our love and worship.) 1 2 0 8 0 0 12, 13. Therefore, brothers, we have an obligation, but it is not to the flesh, to live according to its standard. For if you live according to its standard you are doomed to die; but if, by the Spirit, you put to death the disgraceful deeds of the body, you will live.) At this point there is a transition from exposition to exhortation; from concentration on blessings bestowed by the Giver, to focusing on the obligation incurred by the recipients, including Paul himself.) 1 1 0 8 0 “tw://bible.?id=50.2.12|AUTODETECT|” However, the recipients are by no means represented as being able to act independently. Salvation is not a 50 50 affair. It is God s gift from start to finish. It is by the Spirit that God s children must put to death the disgraceful deeds of the body (verse 13), that they are being led (verse 14), and are being moved to cry, Abba! (verse 15). It is from the Spirit that they receive the assurance that they are indeed children of God (verse 16). But all this does not take away the fact that the recipients of these favors must go into action. They have an obligation to perform; nevertheless, cannot do this in their own power. How then? As already indicated, by the Spirit, and see also ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=50.2.12|AUTODETECT|” Phil. 2:12) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=50.2.13|AUTODETECT|” , ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=50.2.13|AUTODETECT|” 13) 1 1 -1 9 0 0 .) 1 9 0 8 0 0 The apostle calls attention to this obligation by saying, Therefore, that is, in view of all the blessings we have received, are receiving, and are going to receive, stretching from one eternity to another (see verses 29, 30), we note how he includes himself, a hint for pastors, etc. have an obligation.) We do not owe this obligation to the flesh (corrupt human nature), however, to live according to its standard. That we owe the flesh no favors is clear from the fact that it was because of that very flesh that the law was unable to save us (8:3). In fact, having the mind or disposition of the flesh spells death (verse 6), a thought which Paul, in somewhat different phraseology, repeats in verse 13, by saying, If you live according to its standard you are doomed to die. ��215�� So, instead of catering to the flesh, this enemy should be put to death. Has not the apostle already clearly stated this in 6:1, 6, 11, 12 14?) A rich reward is promised to those who by the Spirit for they have no power of their own put to death the disgraceful deeds��216�� of the body: they will live, and this, of course, in the most glorious sense; see above, pp. 92, 93 on 2:7.) With Paul all this is not a piece of abstract theology, dry as dust. On the contrary, his heart is in his epistle. He loves these Romans, and desires most intensely to keep them from going astray.

In fact, he also wants them to keep others from making the wrong choice. That his soul is, indeed, deeply moved is clear from the fact that here again he makes use of the affectionate term of address brothers (verse 12). See what has been said about this word previously (pp. 214, 215).) Note the sharp contrast: those who are living according to the standard of the flesh are doomed to die. Those who by the Spirit are putting to death the disgraceful deeds of the body will live.) Scripture is full of illustrations of) The) Inescapable Alternative) Behold, I am setting before you today) 1 1 0 8 0 “tw://bible.?id=5.11.26|AUTODETECT|” a blessing a curse 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=5.11.26|AUTODETECT|” Deut. 11:26) 1 1 -1 9 0 0 f.) ) 1 1 0 8 0 “tw://bible.?id=5.30.15|AUTODETECT|” life and prosperity death and destruction 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=5.30.15|AUTODETECT|” Deut. 30:15) 1 1 -1 9 0 0 f.) ) 1 1 0 8 0 “tw://bible.?id=40.7.24-40.7.27|AUTODETECT|” building one s house on rock building it on sand 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=40.7.24-40.7.27|AUTODETECT|” Matt. 7:24 27) 1 1 -1 9 0 0 ) ) 1 2 0 8 0 0 ) ) 1 1 0 8 0 “tw://bible.?id=19.1.0|AUTODETECT|” Many other examples could easily be added. Among them would be those to which reference is made in such passages as ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=19.1.0|AUTODETECT|” Ps. 1) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=40.25.31-40.25.46|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=40.25.31-40.25.46|AUTODETECT|” Matt. 25:31 46) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=47.2.16|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=47.2.16|AUTODETECT|” II Cor. 2:16) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=48.5.19-48.5.22|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=48.5.19-48.5.22|AUTODETECT|” Gal. 5:19 22) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=62.4.2|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=62.4.2|AUTODETECT|” I John 4:2) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=62.4.3|AUTODETECT|” , ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=62.4.3|AUTODETECT|” 3) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=66.22.14|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=66.22.14|AUTODETECT|” Rev. 22:14) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=66.22.15|AUTODETECT|” , ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=66.22.15|AUTODETECT|” 15) 1 1 -1 9 0 0 .) 1 1 0 8 0 “tw://bible.?id=46.10.31|AUTODETECT|” The fact to be emphasized is that the right choice must be made, for where a person will spend eternity is at stake. Even more important: whether a person s life will reach what should be its goal depends, in a sense, upon his decision 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=46.10.31|AUTODETECT|” I Cor. 10:31) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=46.7.32|AUTODETECT|” ; cf. ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=46.7.32|AUTODETECT|” I Cor. 7:32) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=50.1.20|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=50.1.20|AUTODETECT|” Phil. 1:20) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=50.1.21|AUTODETECT|” , ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=50.1.21|AUTODETECT|” 21) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=52.4.1|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=52.4.1|AUTODETECT|” I Thess. 4:1) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=6.24.15|AUTODETECT|” ). Choose for yourselves this day whom you will serve, whether the gods your forefathers served beyond the River & but as for me and my household, we will serve the Lord 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=6.24.15|AUTODETECT|” Josh. 24:15) 1 1 -1 9 0 0 ).) 1 12 0 8 0 0 Those, and those alone, who by the Spirit, put to death the disgraceful deeds of the body, are able to rejoice in the fact that they are being led by the Spirit, and therefore will truly live.) 14. For as many as are being led by the Spirit of God, these are sons of God.) The connection between verse 13b and verse 14 is clear; note the word For. In other words, the people who are putting to death the disgraceful deeds of the body are able to do so because they, being sons of God, are being constantly led by the Spirit of God.) Being Led by the Spirit) 1. Its Beneficiaries) An illustration may be helpful. Whether the incident about to be related actually happened is not the point. One may have his own opinion about that.

Suffice it to say that those who told the story were convinced of its historicity:) It was the year 1834 or shortly afterward. Religious persecution raged in The Netherlands. On one of these days, in the late afternoon, the faithful minister of village X was informed that a certain member of his congregation, a devout widow, was seriously ill and would welcome a pastoral call.) The minister decided not to wait until the next morning but to start out at once on foot. The path from the parsonage to the widow s home, a distance of about two miles, led through heavily wooded territory, where men intending to commit murder could easily conceal themselves. But the minister arrived safely at the widow s home. His call was deeply appreciated and greatly strengthened the sick lady.) On the way back to the parsonage & nothing happened.

Apparently there had been no ambush.) A few years passed by. Then one day two men, who through the faithful efforts of this very minister, had recently been brought from darkness to light, spoke to him as follows:) Do you recall that a few years ago it was on a Friday afternoon you went to visit the widow living in the house on the other side of these woods? When the minister answered affirmatively, they continued, Who were those two men, in shining armor, walking on either side of you, guarding you? The astonished minister replied, I was alone, my friends; I was all by myself; either going or returning no one accompanied me. The two continued, This is very strange, for we distinctly saw them. It made us afraid.

So we hurried away. And now, having been brought to the knowledge of Christ through your ministry, how happy we are that we were prevented from carrying out our sinister plot. ) Those who told the story were sure that this minister must have been one of the few very special saints of God who, being led by the Spirit, were the objects of exceptional divine protection.) 1 1 0 8 0 “tw://bible.?id=45.8.14|AUTODETECT|” However, this view, which in certain religious circles used to be rather popular whether this is still the case I do not know is certainly not what Paul had in mind when he wrote ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=45.8.14|AUTODETECT|” Rom. 8:14) 1 1 -1 9 0 0 . The spiritual leading of which he speaks is definitely not the Spirit s gift to the select few. It concerns every Christian. Every child of God is being led by the Spirit. Everyone who is being led by the Spirit is a child of God.��217��) 1 5 0 8 0 0 Those who are being led by the Spirit are the people who are described as being in Christ Jesus (8:1), walking according to the Spirit (verse 4), being Spirit-indwelt (verses 9, 11), and putting to death the disgraceful deeds of the body (verse 13).) 2. Its Nature) What, then, does the leading of the Spirit to change from the passive to the active voice actually mean? It means sanctification. It is the constant, effective, and beneficent influence which the Holy Spirit exercises within the hearts and lives of God s children, enabling them more and more to crush the power of indwelling sin and to walk in the way of God s commandments freely and cheerfully.) The influence which the Holy Spirit exercises is:) a. Not sporadic but constant.) 1 1 0 8 0 “tw://bible.?id=45.8.14|AUTODETECT|” It is not being injected into the lives of God s children now and then, in moments of great need or danger. On the contrary, it is steady, constant, as even the tense here in ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=45.8.14|AUTODETECT|” Rom. 8:14) 1 1 -1 9 0 0 implies. Believers are being led��218�� by the Spirit.) 1 3 0 8 0 0 b. It is not (at least not primarily) protective but corrective.) In the entire context nothing is said about guarding God s children from receiving physical harm, nothing about keeping them out of danger when traveling. On the other hand, the immediately preceding context refers to putting to death the disgraceful deeds of the body, doing this by the Spirit. ��219��) c. It not merely directs but controls.) 1 1 0 8 0 “tw://bible.?id=43.16.13|AUTODETECT|” To be led by the Spirit means more than to be guided by him, though, to be sure, the Spirit is also our Guide 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=43.16.13|AUTODETECT|” John 16:13) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=40.15.14|AUTODETECT|” ). Cf. ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=40.15.14|AUTODETECT|” Matt. 15:14) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=42.6.39|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=42.6.39|AUTODETECT|” Luke 6:39) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=44.8.31|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=44.8.31|AUTODETECT|” Acts 8:31) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=42.18.40|AUTODETECT|” . But the leadership provided by the Spirit amounts to more than merely pointing out the right way. It reminds us not so much of the Indian guide who pointed out to the white explorers the pass through the Rockies, as of the people who led the blind man (of Jericho) to Jesus 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=42.18.40|AUTODETECT|” Luke 18:40) 1 1 -1 9 0 0 ). Merely pointing out the way to him would not have helped him. When the Holy Spirit leads believers he becomes the controlling influence in their lives, bringing them at last to glory.) 1 6 0 8 0 0 d. On the other hand, it does not stifle or repress but helps and encourages.) When the Holy Spirit leads God s child, the latter s responsibility and activity are not canceled or repressed. The blind man of Jericho was not carried to Jesus. He did his own walking. It is exactly as Warfield has pointed out: Though it is indeed the Holy Spirit who keeps us in the path and brings us at last to the goal, it is we who tread every step of the way; our limbs that grow weary with the labor; our hearts that faint & our faith that revives our sinking strength, our hope that instills new courage into our souls, as we toil over the steep ascent. ��220��) 3. Its Fruits) These are so numerous that it would be impossible to mention them all. Accordingly, no attempt will be made to list them all, for this would be just as impossible as to ) Count your many blessings) Name them one by one.) 1 1 0 8 0 “tw://bible.?id=48.5.22|AUTODETECT|” It is for this very reason that in ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=48.5.22|AUTODETECT|” Gal. 5:22) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=48.5.23|AUTODETECT|” , ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=48.5.23|AUTODETECT|” 23) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=48.6.8|AUTODETECT|” Paul, after stating, Now the fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, long-suffering, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, meekness, self-control, continues, against such there is no law. He means, The list I have given is incomplete; therefore I say, against such, meaning: against these and other fruits. Another summarizing description of these fruits is certainly this one, He who sows to & the Spirit will from the Spirit reap life everlasting 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=48.6.8|AUTODETECT|” Gal. 6:8) 1 1 -1 9 0 0 ), for who has ever been able to give a definition of life everlasting from which nothing is lacking? An orchard may contain a rich variety of fruit trees: orange, mango, tangelo, lemon, grapefruit, etc. However, each tree bears only one kind of fruit. The tree of grace, watered by the Spirit of life, bears every variety of spiritual fruit, and apart from that Spirit no spiritual fruit has ever been produced.) 1 8 0 8 0 0 The fruit on which Paul s epistle to the Romans now rivets our attention is that of assurance of salvation, more precisely, that of assurance of adoption as children of God:) 15, 16. For you have not received a spirit of slavery, to fill you once more with dread, but you have received the Spirit of adoption, who moves us to cry, Abba! that is Father! This Spirit himself bears witness with our spirit that we are children of God.) Blessed Assurance) One might summarize the meaning of this passage as follows: You who are being led by the Spirit are not slaves but children. Having been adopted as children, you, of course, are no longer filled with the spirit of slaves, that of dread. No longer are you oppressed with fear as you were when you were still living in paganism or in Judaism, with their emphasis on all the rules one has to keep in order to be saved. On the contrary, you have received the Holy Spirit, who transforms slaves into children.

That Spirit would not even think of filling you once more with dread. No, that Spirit fills us with the sense of freedom amid confidence, so that, in approaching God, we utter the cry of joyful recognition, sweet response, overwhelming gratitude, and filial trust, Abba! (Father). In fact, that Spirit confirms that to which our own regenerated souls already bear witness, namely, that we, believers, are God s own children, having been adopted by him.) Among the various matters with respect to which opinions differ there are especially these three:) 1. When the apostle mentions adoption did he have, in the background of his mind, (a) Greek-Roman or (b) Jewish adoption practices?) Those who favor the first alternative point out that adoption, as a legal institution, did not even exist among the Hebrews, and that in the entire Old Testament the word never occurs. In the Roman world, on the other hand, the custom was rather common. Thus in his will Julius Caesar named Octavian (later called Emperor Augustus) his son and heir.

See N.T.C. on Luke, p. 137. On inscriptions the word adopted son occurs with great frequency.) It should be borne in mind, however, that (a) the purpose of this adoption practice was generally not philanthropic but egocentric: the perpetuation of property ownership and political and/or social privilege in the line of one s descendants, (b) its beneficiaries were males legal adoption did not extend to females.) 1 1 0 8 0 “tw://bible.?id=2.2.10|AUTODETECT|” How completely different is the nature of adoption as pictured in the Old Testament. Instances of essential, though not formal or technical, adoption are indeed recorded in that sacred document. Did not Pharoah s daughter adopt Moses 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=2.2.10|AUTODETECT|” Exod. 2:10) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=17.2.7|AUTODETECT|” ), even though he was only a humanly speaking helpless child? Did not Mordecai bring up his cousin, a girl named Esther 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=17.2.7|AUTODETECT|” Esther 2:7) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=47.6.17|AUTODETECT|” )? A New Testament passage which in a summarizing manner reproduces the teaching of the Old Testament regarding adoption that is, divine adoption is certainly ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=47.6.17|AUTODETECT|” II Cor. 6:17) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=47.6.18|AUTODETECT|” , ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=47.6.18|AUTODETECT|” 18) 1 1 -1 9 0 0 :) 1 6 0 8 0 0 Come out from among them) and be separate, says the Lord,) And touch no unclean thing;) And I will receive you,) And I will be to you a Father,) And you will be to me sons and daughters.) 1 1 0 8 0 “tw://bible.?id=10.7.8|AUTODETECT|” Note how beautifully this New Testament passage reflects the sense of the following passages: ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=10.7.8|AUTODETECT|” II Sam. 7:8) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=10.7.14|AUTODETECT|” , ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=10.7.14|AUTODETECT|” 14) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=19.27.10|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=19.27.10|AUTODETECT|” Ps. 27:10) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=23.43.6|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=23.43.6|AUTODETECT|” Isa. 43:6) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=28.1.10|AUTODETECT|” ; and ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=28.1.10|AUTODETECT|” Hos. 1:10) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=23.43.6|AUTODETECT|” . Note especially that ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=23.43.6|AUTODETECT|” Isa. 43:6) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=47.6.17|AUTODETECT|” as well as ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=47.6.17|AUTODETECT|” II Cor. 6:17) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=47.6.18|AUTODETECT|” , ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=47.6.18|AUTODETECT|” 18) 1 1 -1 9 0 0 mention both sons and daughters as the objects of God s adopting love.) 1 1 0 8 0 “tw://bible.?id=45.8.15|AUTODETECT|” It is clear, therefore, that when in ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=45.8.15|AUTODETECT|” Rom. 8:15) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=48.4.5|AUTODETECT|” and ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=48.4.5|AUTODETECT|” Gal. 4:5) 1 1 -1 9 0 0 Paul uses the term adoption the word and the legal standing were borrowed from Roman practice, but the essence from the divine revelation in the Old Testament.) 1 1 0 8 0 0 2. Is the outcry Abba! to be interpreted as the exclamation of the individual believer in addressing his God, or as the collective (perhaps congregational or liturgical) utterance of the church, gathered for worship?) 1 1 0 8 0 “tw://bible.?id=41.14.36|AUTODETECT|” A form of the word Abba, meaning father, was originally used by small children. Later on its use became far more general. It was the very word uttered also by Jesus when, in deep agony, he, in the garden of Gethsemane, unburdened his soul to his Father in heaven 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=41.14.36|AUTODETECT|” Mark 14:36) 1 1 -1 9 0 0 ). In this word filial tenderness, trust, and love find their combined expression.) 1 5 0 8 0 0 It was, of course, a very personal word, that is, a word by means of which the intimate spiritual relationship between the believer and his God expresses itself. As such it reminds one of a line in a popular hymn,) And the joy we share as we tarry there) none other has ever known.) From In the Garden) by C. A. Miles) 1 1 0 8 0 “tw://bible.?id=48.4.6|AUTODETECT|” There are those who have criticized this hymn, and particularly this line. I believe, however, that this criticism is unfair. Is it not true that between each individual Christian and his God there exists a very personal relationship; or, expressing it differently, that God, in addition to loving and caring for his redeemed collectively, also enters into a uniquely personal fellowship with each of them, so that, prompted by the Holy Spirit 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=48.4.6|AUTODETECT|” Gal. 4:6) 1 1 -1 9 0 0 ) the individual, in pouring out his heart, cries, Father ?) 1 1 0 8 0 “tw://bible.?id=40.6.9|AUTODETECT|” Of course, the very personal use of this word in individual prayer, including The Lord s Prayer 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=40.6.9|AUTODETECT|” Matt. 6:9) 1 1 -1 9 0 0 ), by no means excludes the possibility that it was also uttered collectively by the congregation, gathered for worship; just as even today we use The Lord s Prayer both collectively and individually.) 1 1 0 8 0 “tw://bible.?id=50.3.5|AUTODETECT|” Being a Hebrew of Hebrews 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=50.3.5|AUTODETECT|” Phil. 3:5) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=44.21.40|AUTODETECT|” ) Paul must have been fond of the language spoken by the Jews as they returned from the lands of their captivity, namely Aramaic, akin to Hebrew 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=44.21.40|AUTODETECT|” Acts 21:40) 1 1 -1 9 0 0 ). Aramaic, in fact, was a very important language in those days, spoken not only by the Jews, but by others besides, even by many people living far away from the borders of Palestine. Jesus too spoke Aramaic, and it is probable that in his frequent teaching about the Father he had often used the term Abba. His disciples therefore relished the use of this word. Thus it entered into the vocabulary of the primitive church. Naturally in writing to a church or to churches consisting of people who for the greater part were non-Jews, the word Abba had to be translated into the Greek word A ����� (Father). Understandably Mark, addressing a Greek-speaking audience, wrote Abba! and quickly added the Greek word for Father ; and so, probably for a similar reason did Paul.��221��) 1 1 0 8 0 “tw://bible.?id=45.8.16|AUTODETECT|” 3. Does ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=45.8.16|AUTODETECT|” Rom. 8:16) 1 1 -1 9 0 0 mention one witness or two witnesses?) 1 1 0 8 0 0 There are those who say that in reality Paul mentions only one witness or testifier, and that accordingly the correct rendering of verse 16 is, The Spirit himself assures our spirit that we are children of God. Thus, or along this line, the Vulgate, Beck, Cranfield. The reasoning that lies at the root of this interpretation is that the verb used in the original, and generally rendered to bear witness with,��222�� or to testify in support of (someone), can also mean to assure, and that our spirit in and by itself has no right to testify to our being sons of God. However, in fairness to those who so argue, one should read what Cranfield himself says on pp. 402, 403 of his excellent commentary.) 1 1 0 8 0 “tw://bible.?id=45.2.15|AUTODETECT|” Fact is, however, that in each of the other instances in which Paul uses this verb there are two that bear witness: one testifies along with the other. Thus in ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=45.2.15|AUTODETECT|” Rom. 2:15) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=45.9.1|AUTODETECT|” what is written on a man s heart is one witness; the other is the voice of his conscience. Similarly, in ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=45.9.1|AUTODETECT|” Rom. 9:1) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=45.8.16|AUTODETECT|” Paul himself testifies that Israel s unbelief is for him a heavy burden. His conscience confirms this, and in so doing proves to be the second witness. I see no good reason, therefore, to depart from the rendering of ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=45.8.16|AUTODETECT|” Rom. 8:16) 1 1 -1 9 0 0 that has been adopted, with slight variations, by most translators, namely, This Spirit himself bears witness with our spirit that we are children of God. ) 1 1 0 8 0 “tw://bible.?id=48.4.6|AUTODETECT|” Just how the Spirit does this, Paul does not indicate. According to some, the Spirit testifies along with our regenerated consciousness by exerting a direct influence on heart and mind. See ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=48.4.6|AUTODETECT|” Gal. 4:6) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=43.8.47|AUTODETECT|” . Others insist that he works by applying the Word to the heart and mind of individual believers and also of the church viewed as a unit. See ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=43.8.47|AUTODETECT|” John 8:47) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=43.16.13|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=43.16.13|AUTODETECT|” 16:13) 1 1 -1 9 0 0 . Could not both positions be true?) 1 4 0 8 0 0 In the midst of these debates and differences of opinion we are in danger of forgetting the wonder of it all. Just think of it:) a. At the cost of the death and what a death! of his own Son, God decided to save us. (Did you notice how in 8:15 Paul makes the change, as he does often, from you to we?). See p. 217.) b. As if this were not enough, God even adopts us, so that we become his sons and daughters, his dear children (8:15).) c. His infinite and tender love extends even beyond this, for not only does he save us and make us his children but he also wants us to know that these great blessings have been bestowed upon us. By means of two witnesses he imparts to us this blessed assurance (8:16). He saves, adopts, assures!) 1 1 0 8 0 “tw://bible.?id=62.3.1|AUTODETECT|” Behold what love the Father has lavished on us, that we should be called children of God! And that is what we are! 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=62.3.1|AUTODETECT|” I John 3:1) 1 1 -1 9 0 0 ).) 1 8 0 8 0 0 And the glory of sonship expands very logically into that of heirship, as Paul now continues:) 17. And if children, then heirs, heirs of God and fellow-heirs with Christ; since the fact that we are now sharing in his sufferings means that (hereafter) we shall share in his glory.) If Children, Then Heirs) The state of being a child implies that of being an heir, which, in turn, implies that there is an inheritance in store for us. That this inheritance is reserved for the future, Paul makes clear when he states, & we shall share in his glory. In verses 11 and 13 the apostle had already kindled the hope of those whom he addresses. He had pointed to glories to come for both body and soul. He now enlarges on that theme.

He tells us something about the Testator, the Inheritance, and the Heirs.) A. The Testator) If there is to be an inheritance there must be someone who bequeaths it. Our passage does not leave us in doubt with respect to the identity of this Testator. It reads heirs of God, meaning, of course, that God is that Testator. Also, Christ is clearly the main Heir, and we, says Paul, are fellow-heirs with Christ, destined, accordingly, to share in his glory.��223��) In looking forward to receive an inheritance, very much depends on the character of the testator. So we commonly ask, What kind of person was the testator?

When did he die? Was he rich or poor? Just or unjust? ) In the present case the answers are most encouraging. Earthly testators die. This means that a purely earthly inheritance is limited. When it is used up, no goods can be added.

But the Testator whom Paul has in mind is from everlasting to everlasting. Therefore our inheritance will not give out; in fact, will never even diminish.) 1 1 0 8 0 “tw://bible.?id=37.2.8|AUTODETECT|” Moreover, this Testator is rich. Not only is it true that all the silver and gold is his 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=37.2.8|AUTODETECT|” Hag. 2:8) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=19.50.10|AUTODETECT|” ), and that he owns every animal of the forest, and the cattle on a thousand hills 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=19.50.10|AUTODETECT|” Ps. 50:10) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=43.3.16|AUTODETECT|” ), but it is also a fact that his riches cannot even be measured. Also, so generous is he that whatever he demands of us he is eager to give us. For example, he demands that we repose our trust in him 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=43.3.16|AUTODETECT|” John 3:16) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=49.2.8|AUTODETECT|” ). This very trust or faith is also his gift to us. See N.T.C. on Ephesians, pp. 120 123 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=49.2.8|AUTODETECT|” Eph. 2:8) 1 1 -1 9 0 0 ).) 1 1 0 8 0 “tw://bible.?id=19.16.6|AUTODETECT|” A very common item of human experience is dissatisfaction over the stipulations of a will. However, so just and fair is the Testator whom Paul has in mind that on that future day when God s children will take possession of their inheritance, they will be saying, The boundary lines have fallen in pleasant places for me; indeed, a delightful inheritance is mine 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=19.16.6|AUTODETECT|” Ps. 16:6) 1 1 -1 9 0 0 ).) 1 2 0 8 0 0 B. The Inheritance) Two facts with respect to this inheritance have already been made clear: (a) that it pertains to the future, and (b) that it consists of riches which we shall possess in connection with Christ. ) 1 1 0 8 0 “tw://bible.?id=51.1.12|AUTODETECT|” That in full measure the inheritance of the saints in the light 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=51.1.12|AUTODETECT|” Col. 1:12) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=45.8.18|AUTODETECT|” ) is indeed a blessing that pertains to the future follows also from the fact that ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=45.8.18|AUTODETECT|” Rom. 8:18) 1 1 -1 9 0 0 speaks of a glory that is to be revealed in us. It will, moreover, be a glory to which the whole creation looks forward (verse 19).) 1 1 0 8 0 0 According to the book of Revelation together with Christ we shall inherit a new name (3:12) and a crown of gold (4:4; cf. 14:14). With him we shall reign (20:4). In fact, we shall even sit beside Christ on his throne (3:21). To be sure, all this is symbolic language. But do not these passages indicate that the blessing of communion with Christ, which is our portion even now in principle, will be ours in a far higher degree then?) 1 1 0 8 0 “tw://bible.?id=46.15.49|AUTODETECT|” Moreover, this future bliss will not be confined to the soul. It definitely will pertain also to the body. We shall bear the image of the heavenly 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=46.15.49|AUTODETECT|” I Cor. 15:49) 1 1 -1 9 0 0 ). For more on this see below, on verse 23.) 1 1 0 8 0 0 Along with this transformation of soul and body we can look forward to the transformation of the universe. Creation itself will be set free from the bondage of corruption. See on verses 19 22.) 1 1 0 8 0 “tw://bible.?id=49.3.18|AUTODETECT|” What will make all this even more wonderful is the fact that, in close fellowship with the Savior, each of the redeemed will inherit these riches together with all the others 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=49.3.18|AUTODETECT|” Eph. 3:18) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=55.4.8|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=55.4.8|AUTODETECT|” II Tim. 4:8) 1 1 -1 9 0 0 ), and with the purpose of glorifying God Triune forever and ever.) 1 1 0 8 0 “tw://bible.?id=60.1.4|AUTODETECT|” Moreover, it should he emphasized that this future glory for soul and body, though indeed a gift of God s sovereign grace, is also more than a gift. It is an inheritance, which, in the present connection can imply no less than (a) that it will be the possession of God s children by right, that right having been established by Christ s self-sacrifice; and (b) that it is inalienable 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=60.1.4|AUTODETECT|” I Peter 1:4) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=11.21.3|AUTODETECT|” ; cf. ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=11.21.3|AUTODETECT|” I Kings 21:3) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=11.21.4|AUTODETECT|” , ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=11.21.4|AUTODETECT|” 4) 1 1 -1 9 0 0 ).) 1 2 0 8 0 0 C. The Heirs) Paul says, If children, then heirs. ) 1 1 0 8 0 “tw://bible.?id=50.3.18|AUTODETECT|” If children, not if enemies. Even among those who wish to be regarded as believers there are those who actually are enemies of the cross of Christ 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=50.3.18|AUTODETECT|” Phil. 3:18) 1 1 -1 9 0 0 ). As long as they remain enemies the inheritance is not for them.) 1 1 0 8 0 “tw://bible.?id=48.3.1|AUTODETECT|” If children, not if slaves. There are those who serve Christ outwardly, not inwardly, not motivated by love and trust, not wholeheartedly. Think of the Galatians 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=48.3.1|AUTODETECT|” Gal. 3:1) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=44.5.1|AUTODETECT|” f.), of Ananias and Sapphira 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=44.5.1|AUTODETECT|” Acts 5:1) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=55.4.10|AUTODETECT|” ), of Demas 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=55.4.10|AUTODETECT|” II Tim. 4:10) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=64.1.9|AUTODETECT|” ), and of Diotrephes 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=64.1.9|AUTODETECT|” III John 9) 1 1 -1 9 0 0 ).) 1 1 0 8 0 “tw://bible.?id=42.18.17|AUTODETECT|” If children then heirs; otherwise not. This is also entirely in line with Christ s teaching 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=42.18.17|AUTODETECT|” Luke 18:17) 1 1 -1 9 0 0 ).) 1 1 0 8 0 “tw://bible.?id=40.5.11|AUTODETECT|” But how do I know that I am a child? In light of the present passage the answer is, I know that I am a child if I am willing, when necessity demands, to endure suffering for the sake of Christ. 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=40.5.11|AUTODETECT|” Matt. 5:11) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=40.5.12|AUTODETECT|” , ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=40.5.12|AUTODETECT|” 12) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=40.10.22|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=40.10.22|AUTODETECT|” 10:22) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=40.10.39|AUTODETECT|” , ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=40.10.39|AUTODETECT|” 39) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=40.24.9|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=40.24.9|AUTODETECT|” 24:9) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=41.8.35|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=41.8.35|AUTODETECT|” Mark 8:35) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=41.13.13|AUTODETECT|” , ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=41.13.13|AUTODETECT|” 13:13) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=60.4.16|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=60.4.16|AUTODETECT|” I Peter 4:16) 1 1 -1 9 0 0 ).) 1 1 0 8 0 “tw://bible.?id=40.10.25|AUTODETECT|” When we suffer as Christians, then Christ s afflictions overflow toward us, as the following passages clearly indicate: ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=40.10.25|AUTODETECT|” Matt. 10:25) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=43.15.18-43.15.21|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=43.15.18-43.15.21|AUTODETECT|” John 15:18 21) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=44.9.4|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=44.9.4|AUTODETECT|” Acts 9:4) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=44.9.5|AUTODETECT|” , ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=44.9.5|AUTODETECT|” 5) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=47.1.5|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=47.1.5|AUTODETECT|” II Cor. 1:5) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=47.1.10|AUTODETECT|” , ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=47.1.10|AUTODETECT|” 10) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=48.6.17|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=48.6.17|AUTODETECT|” Gal. 6:17) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=50.3.10|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=50.3.10|AUTODETECT|” Phil. 3:10) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=60.4.13|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=60.4.13|AUTODETECT|” I Peter 4:13) 1 1 -1 9 0 0 . We can add nothing to Christ s redemptive suffering for us, but by means of our willingness to suffer for his sake we are drawn closer to the Savior s heart.) 1 10 0 8 0 0 Paul assumes that the church he is addressing is indeed willing to suffer for Christ, just as the apostle himself is also constantly enduring such affliction. That is why he states, & since the fact that we are now sharing in his suffering means that hereafter we shall share in his glory. ��224�� But let every individual member answer for himself the question, Am I willing to suffer as a Christian? Could it be that the reason why some boldly affirm, I have never suffered for Christ, is that they are such poor Christians & if Christians at all?) Suffering as a Christian takes many forms. It does not mean that our experience has to be that of a Polycarp or a John Huss. Today a believer may lose his job because he refuses to perform unnecessary work on the Lord s Day. Or because be says No when he is being tempted to participate in a crooked business deal, or makes up his mind not to marry an unbeliever, or insists on honoring the Word of God in the classroom.

How many have not been expelled from positions in school, church, or government because of their stand for the truth?) It is comforting to know that all who share in Christ s suffering will at last hear from his lips the welcoming words, Well done, good and faithful servants. Enter into my rest. ) 18. For I consider that the sufferings of this present time are not worthy to be compared with the glory that is to be revealed in us.) Suffering and Glory) A Comparison) The conjunction For indicates that what follows is a further explication and amplification of the glory to which reference was made in the preceding verse.) A. The Two Elements Compared) I consider (or reckon), says Paul, making use of an understatement,��225�� for what he actually means is, I am firmly convinced. ) Of what is he firmly convinced? Of the fact that the sufferings of this present time are not worthy to be compared with the glory that is to be revealed in us. It is clear that the apostle is, as it were, holding in his hand a scale or balance.

As always, it has two scalepans. In the one pan he places the sufferings of this present time ; in the other the glory that is to be revealed in us. ) 1 1 0 8 0 “tw://bible.?id=1.3.16-1.3.19|AUTODETECT|” The first (sufferings) is a result of sin. Had there been no sin, human beings would not have had to suffer 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=1.3.16-1.3.19|AUTODETECT|” Gen. 3:16 19) 1 1 -1 9 0 0 ). The second (glory) is the result of grace. As far as God s children are concerned, the first is temporal, the second never-ending.) 1 1 0 8 0 0 What kind of sufferings does Paul have in mind? Those experienced as a result of our relation to Christ? Such sufferings are certainly included. Otherwise there would be no connection between verses 17 and 18. Nevertheless, it is not advisable to limit the word sufferings as here employed, to such afflictions. As verses 19 23, 28, 38, 39 clearly indicate, other afflictions are also included.

The apostle is thinking of sufferings in general; therefore also including pain (physical as well as mental), sickness, disappointment, unemployment, poverty, frustration, etc. This follows too from the fact that he uses the very broad expression the sufferings of this present time, that is, of this present age, the time or age which extends to, and ends with, Christ s second coming.��226��) 1 1 0 8 0 “tw://bible.?id=45.8.18|AUTODETECT|” And what about the glory of which Paul speaks? Is he referring to the blessings of the intermediate state; that is, the beatific joys which the souls of the redeemed begin to experience the very moment they breathe their last? That this intermediate state is real, and that at this very moment the departed dear ones who died in the Lord are participating in its activities I have tried to prove in my book The Bible on the Life Hereafter, Grand Rapids, 1959. See especially pp. 53 57. However, that cannot be what Paul has in mind here in ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=45.8.18|AUTODETECT|” Rom. 8:18) 1 1 -1 9 0 0 . Verses 19 and 23 make very clear that he is referring to what will transpire at the time of the revelation of the sons of God, and of the redemption (glorious resurrection) of our bodies ; in other words, at the time of Christ s Return.) 1 15 0 8 0 0 Significant is also the fact that the apostle, in dictating this letter, did not say the glory that is to be revealed to us, but the glory that is to be revealed in us. In other words, this glory will, as it were, come to us, enter us, and then, having filled us and enveloped us, will be revealed in us. We ourselves will be part of that glory: the redeemed will see it in each other. The angels will behold it in us, and will be filled with thanksgiving and praise to God.) B. The Result of This Comparison) I consider that the sufferings of the present time are not worthy to be compared with the glory that will be revealed in us, says Paul; that is, the pan in which the glory has been deposited outweighs the other one by so much that the heavier pan drops to the bottom immediately. Our present sufferings, be they ever so many and severe, fade into insignificance when compared with our future glory.) C.

The Reason for This Comparison) The very strategically situated church of Rome, surrounded by dangers and enemies (16:3, 4, 17 20), was in need of encouragement. The present passage richly supplies it.) In reflecting on the glory to be revealed in us, as well, of course, as to us, we realize that the reality will by far surpass our fondest expectations. Mrs. Elizabeth Mills was surely correct when she wrote:) We speak of the land of the blest,) A country so bright and so fair,) And oft are its glories confest,) But what must it be to be there?) Especially to be there, in redeemed soul and body, at Christ s glorious Second Coming and forever afterward!) 19 22. For the creation, with outstretched head, is eagerly looking forward to the revelation of the sons of God. For it was not by its own choice that the creation was subjected to futility, but (it was) because of him who subjected it, in hope, because the creation itself too will be set free from its bondage to decay, so as to share the glorious liberty of the children of God.

For we know that the whole creation, with one accord, has been, and still is, groaning as in the pain of childbirth.) The Three Groanings) The word For is understandable: the glory to be revealed (verse 18) is so marvelous that the (whole) creation is eagerly looking forward to it (verses 19 22), we ourselves are ardently awaiting it (verses 23 25), the Spirit too joining us (verses 26, 27). All three (creation, we, the Spirit) groan as in childbirth, hopefully looking forward to the birth of the promised glory. We might say, therefore, that For introduces The Three Groanings. It continues the discussion of the subject (future glory) that had already been mentioned, a very common use of For. ) A. Creation s Groaning) 1 1 0 8 0 “tw://bible.?id=61.2.4|AUTODETECT|” What is here three times called the creation is finally (in verse 22) called the whole creation. How much does it include? It cannot include the good angels, since they were never subjected to futility (verse 20) and never succumbed to corruption or decay (verse 21). Satan and his demons are also ruled out, for they will never be set free 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=61.2.4|AUTODETECT|” II Peter 2:4) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=65.1.6|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=65.1.6|AUTODETECT|” Jude 6) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=53.1.8|AUTODETECT|” ). This holds also for all those people who will never be saved, the non-elect 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=53.1.8|AUTODETECT|” II Thess. 1:8) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=53.1.9|AUTODETECT|” , ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=53.1.9|AUTODETECT|” 9) 1 1 -1 9 0 0 ). And the elect are not included here, for they are here treated as a separate group. We are told that the creation is looking forward to the revelation of the sons of God, implying that creation s deliverance from the bondage of corruption will take place at the time when the revelation of God s children will occur. Besides, what the elect are doing and what is going to happen to them is described in verses 23 25.) 1 2 0 8 0 0 With the exclusion of all these four groups, what is left is the animate and inanimate irrational creation. One might call it the sub-human creation or simply Nature.) We are told, therefore, that this remaining whole creation is, with outstretched head,��227�� eagerly looking and watching for the revelation of the sons of God. It is, as it were, craning its neck to see this.) 1 1 0 8 0 “tw://bible.?id=19.96.12|AUTODETECT|” When the question is asked, But how is it possible for birds and plants to show such intense interest in what will happen to God s children, the answer might well be, If, according to Scripture, trees can rejoice 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=19.96.12|AUTODETECT|” Ps. 96:12) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=19.98.8|AUTODETECT|” ), floods can clap their hands 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=19.98.8|AUTODETECT|” Ps. 98:8) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=23.35.1|AUTODETECT|” ), the wilderness can be glad 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=23.35.1|AUTODETECT|” Isa. 35:1) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=23.55.12|AUTODETECT|” ), and mountains and hills can burst into Song of Solomon 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=23.55.12|AUTODETECT|” Isa. 55:12) 1 1 -1 9 0 0 ), why should not birds and plants be able to look forward with longing? As is clearly evident, we are dealing here with personfication.) 1 1 0 8 0 0 However, that answer is incomplete. More must be added: (a) that the restoration of the animate and inanimate irrational creation is intimately related to the revelation of the sons of God. The two are linked together, so that restoration and glory for the sons of God implies the same for the whole creation. And (b) that it will most certainly take place.) 1 1 0 8 0 “tw://bible.?id=40.13.43|AUTODETECT|” Beautiful and very meaningful is the phrase the revelation of the sons of God.��228�� It indicates that not until the day of Christ s Return will it become a matter of public knowledge how much God loves them and how richly he rewards them. Then, in the kingdom of their Father, the righteous will shine as the sun 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=40.13.43|AUTODETECT|” Matt. 13:43) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=27.12.3|AUTODETECT|” ), as the brightness of the firmament and as the stars forever and ever 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=27.12.3|AUTODETECT|” Dan. 12:3) 1 1 -1 9 0 0 ). They will be on exhibition, so that all will be able to see what God has wrought for and in them.) 1 12 0 8 0 0 The whole creation is looking forward eagerly for the revelation of the sons of God because that event will also mean glory for the whole creation. We must bear in mind that it was not by its own choice hence, was not its own fault that the creation was made subject to futility. It was not the irrational creation that sinned, It was man. And the One who subjected the creation to futility was God. It was he who, because of man s sin, pronounced a curse on & what or on whom? Well, in a sense on creation, but in an even deeper sense upon man:) Cursed is the ground because of you;) In toil you will eat of it) All the days of your life.) Thorns and thistles it will produce for you,) And you will eat the plants of the field.) By the sweat of your brow) you will eat your food) until you return to the ground,) because from it you were taken;) For dust you are,) and to dust you will return.) 7 1 0 8 0 “tw://bible.*?id=1.3.17-1.3.19|AUTODETECT|” Gen. 3:17 19) 1 6 0 8 0 0 So, since creation s humiliation was not its fault, as the passage specifically states, it will certainly participate in man s restoration. Nature s destiny is intimately linked up with that of the sons of God. That is why the whole creation is represented as craning its neck to behold the revelation of the sons of God.) Note the expression, The creation was subjected to futility. A.V. reads to vanity. However, when this word is interpreted as meaning inflated pride, it has nothing to do with the present passage. The word used in the original does not refer to ambitious display.

It indicates that since man s fall Nature s potentialities are cribbed, cabined, and confined. The creation is subject to arrested development and constant decay. Though it aspires, it is not able fully to achieve. Though it blossoms, it does not reach the point of adequately bearing fruit. It may be compared to a very powerful world-champion boxer or wrestler, who is chained in such a manner that he cannot make use of his tremendous physical prowess. The curse of plant disease decimates the crops.

The loss is estimated at many millions of dollars for each separate disease. Plant pathologists direct their efforts toward developing methods of disease prevention or at least reduction or control. And, in a modified sense, what is true with respect to the world of plants holds too for the animal sphere.) What a glorious day that will be when all the restraints due to man s sin will have been removed, and we shall see this wonderful creation reaching self-realization, finally coming into its own, sharing in the glorious liberty of the children of God! ) That this hope is not unrealistic is shown by the words, in hope, because��229�� the creation itself too will be set free & ) Paul compares the earnest yearning and eager forward looking of creation to the groaning of a woman who is in the process of giving birth to a child.��230�� To be sure, such groaning indicates suffering, but it also implies hope. As Calvin reminds us, these groans are birth-pangs, not death-pangs. The addition with one accord or together indicates that every division of this whole creation participate in these birth-pangs.) Does the rest of Scripture furnish any further information about the meaning of Nature s future deliverance from bondage and participation in the glorious liberty of God s children?) 1 1 0 8 0 “tw://bible.?id=61.3.7|AUTODETECT|” Indeed, it does! It informs us that the universe is going to be purged by a great conflagration 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=61.3.7|AUTODETECT|” II Peter 3:7) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=61.3.11|AUTODETECT|” , ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=61.3.11|AUTODETECT|” 11) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=61.3.12|AUTODETECT|” , ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=61.3.12|AUTODETECT|” 12) 1 1 -1 9 0 0 ).) 1 1 0 8 0 “tw://bible.?id=61.3.13|AUTODETECT|” Closely linked with this conflagration there is going to be a rejuvenation. The fire will not destroy the universe. It will still be the same heavens and earth, but gloriously renewed, and in that sense a new heaven and earth 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=61.3.13|AUTODETECT|” II Peter 3:13) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=66.21.1-66.21.5|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=66.21.1-66.21.5|AUTODETECT|” Rev. 21:1 5) 1 1 -1 9 0 0 ). Accordingly, not only will we be going to heaven, but heaven will, as it were, come down to us; that is, the conditions of perfection obtaining in heaven will be found throughout God s gloriously rejuvenated universe.) 1 1 0 8 0 0 We can also view this wonderful transformation as a self-realization, as has been explained. See above, p. 268.) 1 1 0 8 0 “tw://bible.?id=23.11.6-23.11.9|AUTODETECT|” Finally, this transformation will include harmonization. At present Nature can be described as being raw in tooth and claw. Peace and harmony are lacking. Various organisms seem to be working at cross purposes: they choke each other to death. But then there will be concord and harmony everywhere. There will be variation, to be sure, but a most delightful blending of sight and sound, of life and purpose, so that the total effect will be unity and harmony. The prophecy of ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=23.11.6-23.11.9|AUTODETECT|” Isa. 11:6 9) 1 1 -1 9 0 0 will reach ultimate fulfilment:) 1 16 0 8 0 0 The wolf will dwell with the lamb,) And the leopard will lie down with the goat,) And the calf and the young lion and the yearling together,) And a little child will lead them.) The cow and the bear will graze,) The young will lie down together,) And the lion will eat straw like the ox.) And the nursing child will play near the hole of the cobra,) And the weaned child will put his hand into the viper s nest.) They will not hurt or destroy in all my holy mountain,) For the earth will be full of the knowledge of the Lord) As the waters cover the sea.) 23 25. Not only this, but also we ourselves, who possess the firstfruits of the Spirit, even we ourselves groan within ourselves, as we eagerly await our adoption, that is, the redemption of our bodies. For it was in hope that we were saved; but when once something hoped for is seen it is no longer an object of hope, for who hopes for what he sees? But since we hope for that which we do not see, we wait for it with patient endurance.) B. Our Own Groaning) Not only does the whole subhuman creation groan, but so do also we ourselves, says Paul, thus including himself, as well as those whom he addresses, in the sphere of those who groan. When he adds who possess the first fruits of the Spirit does he mean, We groan even though we possess, etc. or because we possess, etc.?

Either would make excellent sense. He may have meant, Even though we are already so rich, we are reaching out for riches even more precious. Or he may have intended to convey the thought, Since we already have the Spirit, we are convinced that more, much more, is still in store for us. We are therefore eagerly yearning to receive it. In view of the fact that we are not sure which of these alternatives was uppermost in the apostle s mind, it may well be best, in our translation, to leave the participle exactly as it is, namely, having or possessing. Personally I, along with many other commentators, rather favor the concessive interpretation, since it seems to harmonize best with the idea of great surprise implied in the emphatic introduction, also we ourselves & even we ourselves, ��231�� as if to say, Though we have already received so much, we are still groaning within ourselves for more. ) Paul says, we ourselves, who possess the firstfruits of the Spirit.

What does he mean?) 1 1 0 8 0 “tw://bible.?id=2.23.19|AUTODETECT|” From ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=2.23.19|AUTODETECT|” Exod. 23:19) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=5.18.4|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=5.18.4|AUTODETECT|” Deut. 18:4) 1 1 -1 9 0 0 , and other passages, we learn that the Israelites were told to offer to God the firstfruits of the soil (grain, wine, oil), and even of the wool from the shearing of the sheep. But the reverse is also a fact. God too gives firstfruits. He gives the firstfruits of the Spirit, so that Paul could state that he himself and those whom he addresses are now in possession of this blessing.��232��) 1 1 0 8 0 0 Was the apostle referring to a certain supply of the Spirit that had been poured out so far, with more of the Spirit to follow later? See L.N.T. (A. and G.), p. 81, an opinion that is rather popular, especially among people who frequently refer to the second blessing. It is, however, erroneous.) 1 1 0 8 0 “tw://bible.?id=45.8.23|AUTODETECT|” There is no reason to doubt that the apostle, here in ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=45.8.23|AUTODETECT|” Rom. 8:23) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=49.1.13|AUTODETECT|” , is referring to the Holy Spirit himself. That Spirit is himself the firstfruits or pledge of subsequent salvation in all its fulness, in store for God s children at Christ s Return. There is no reason to believe that Paul refers to one thing in ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=49.1.13|AUTODETECT|” Eph. 1:13) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=49.1.14|AUTODETECT|” , ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=49.1.14|AUTODETECT|” 14) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=45.8.23|AUTODETECT|” , and to something else here in ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=45.8.23|AUTODETECT|” Rom. 8:23) 1 1 -1 9 0 0 .��233��) 1 1 0 8 0 0 Also we ourselves & even we ourselves groan within ourselves, as we eagerly await our adoption, that is, the redemption of our bodies. How is it to be understood that even Christians groan? Is it not reasonable to assume that the groaning of God s children resembles that of Nature (verse 22)? If then the groaning of the whole creation consisted of two elements, namely, (a) experiencing pain and (b) looking forward in hope, we may conclude that the same holds also for those who possess the firstfruits of the Spirit, God s dear children.) 1 1 0 8 0 “tw://bible.?id=45.7.24|AUTODETECT|” Is Paul thinking of the fact that Christians realize that they are still very imperfect? So sinful that at times they cry out, Wretched man that I am, Who will rescue me from this body of death? 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=45.7.24|AUTODETECT|” Rom. 7:24) 1 1 -1 9 0 0 )? That they are indeed imperfect is clear from Scripture throughout. Nevertheless, the present context think especially of the combination pain and hope points also in a different direction. The very fact that God s children even now possess that is, are indwelt by the Holy Spirit, arouses within them a painful sense of lack. What they already have makes them hungry for more; that is, for salvation in all its fulness. It is in this sense that pain and hope are here combined.) 1 1 0 8 0 “tw://bible.?id=45.8.11|AUTODETECT|” Even now believers have been adopted as God s sons (8:15, 16). But, in another sense, they are still waiting for their adoption. They are waiting for the public display of their standing as children of God. As of right now their bodies are still subject to death. But one day their souls will have been completely delivered from sin, and their bodies will have become transformed, so that they will resemble the glorious body of the Lord Jesus Christ himself. To that great day they now look forward in hope 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=45.8.11|AUTODETECT|” Rom. 8:11) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=46.15.50-46.15.55|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=46.15.50-46.15.55|AUTODETECT|” I Cor. 15:50 55) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=47.5.2|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=47.5.2|AUTODETECT|” II Cor. 5:2) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=47.5.3|AUTODETECT|” , ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=47.5.3|AUTODETECT|” 3) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=50.3.21|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=50.3.21|AUTODETECT|” Phil. 3:21) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=62.3.2|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=62.3.2|AUTODETECT|” I John 3:2) 1 1 -1 9 0 0 ).) 1 2 0 8 0 0 Verse 24 takes up this subject of the Christian s hope. The translation of this verse in the A.V. is, however, not the best (to put it mildly). It is as follows:) For we are saved by hope; but hope that is seen is not hope: for what a man seeth, why doth he yet hope for? ) 1 1 0 8 0 “tw://bible.?id=45.1.16|AUTODETECT|” We naturally ask, Has Paul changed his theology? Did he not always tell us that we were saved by faith 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=45.1.16|AUTODETECT|” Rom. 1:16) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=45.1.17|AUTODETECT|” , ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=45.1.17|AUTODETECT|” 17) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=45.3.22|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=45.3.22|AUTODETECT|” 3:22) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=45.3.26|AUTODETECT|” , ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=45.3.26|AUTODETECT|” 26) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=45.3.28|AUTODETECT|” , ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=45.3.28|AUTODETECT|” 28) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=45.3.31|AUTODETECT|” , ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=45.3.31|AUTODETECT|” 31) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=45.4.5|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=45.4.5|AUTODETECT|” 4:5) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=45.4.11|AUTODETECT|” , ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=45.4.11|AUTODETECT|” 11) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=45.4.12|AUTODETECT|” , ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=45.4.12|AUTODETECT|” 12) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=45.4.16|AUTODETECT|” , ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=45.4.16|AUTODETECT|” 16) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=45.4.20|AUTODETECT|” , ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=45.4.20|AUTODETECT|” 20) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=45.4.24|AUTODETECT|” , ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=45.4.24|AUTODETECT|” 24) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=45.5.1|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=45.5.1|AUTODETECT|” 5:1) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=45.5.2|AUTODETECT|” , ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=45.5.2|AUTODETECT|” 2) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=49.2.8|AUTODETECT|” ), and is he not going to confirm this same truth later on 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=49.2.8|AUTODETECT|” Eph. 2:8) 1 1 -1 9 0 0 )? Yet here I read that we are saved by hope! Besides, what does the apostle mean when he mentions hope that is seen ? How can a person see hope?) 1 1 0 8 0 “tw://bible.?id=45.8.24|AUTODETECT|” In order to understand ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=45.8.24|AUTODETECT|” Rom. 8:24) 1 1 -1 9 0 0 we should start out by affirming that the rendering We are saved by hope is wrong. Paul wrote in hope. What he meant was that when, sometime in the past (probably at different dates for each person) we were saved, that salvation was not delivered to us complete in one package. It did not arrive cut and dried. On the contrary, it came to us with a promise of more to follow. Such elements included in salvation, as election, calling, regeneration, basic conversion, faith, justification, and even, in part, sanctification, had already occurred.

Still to come were further progress in sanctification, and finally, at death, and even more fully at Christ s Return, glorification. It is clear, therefore, that Paul could write, We were saved in hope. ) 1 1 0 8 0 “tw://bible.?id=58.6.19|AUTODETECT|” Christian hope, however, must be distinguished from the hope we speak about in daily life. Such hope often amounts to no more than a desire that something nice may happen to us, plus a belief that it might just take place. In fact, such hope can frequently be defined as that which precedes disappointment. Its picture is at times that of a drowning man grasping at a straw. But Christian hope is an anchor for the soul, safe and sure, entering into the inner sanctuary, behind the curtain, where Jesus has gone as a forerunner on our behalf. 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=58.6.19|AUTODETECT|” Heb. 6:19) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=58.6.20|AUTODETECT|” , ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=58.6.20|AUTODETECT|” 20) 1 1 -1 9 0 0 ).) 1 4 0 8 0 0 As to the rest of the verse (24), everything becomes clear when we realize that the word hope can have three different meanings. It can indicate (a) a feeling or even a conviction that what is desired will take place; (b) the person who is considered able to make it take place, as in Our Hope for years to come, and (c) the thing hoped for. It would seem that in Greek this last meaning is more common than in English. So we translate the remainder of verse 24 as follows:) But when once something hoped for is seen, it is no longer an object of hope, for who hopes for what he sees? ��234��) The truth here expressed is obvious: when that for which a person was hoping has arrived, and is now standing or lying in front of him, so that he sees it (implying: and can take hold of it), it ceases to be an object of hope.) Paul is emphasizing the necessity of making use of the anchor of hope. He is, as it were, saying, Just as faith is necessary to appropriate the salvation which Christ merited for you in the past, so hope is necessary to take to yourselves future blessings. Those bounties are reserved for all who humbly confess their shortcomings and rely wholly on God, the Merciful Giver. Remember, you were saved in hope. ) 1 1 0 8 0 “tw://bible.?id=40.6.12|AUTODETECT|” The present-day practical application is clear. There are those who seem to think that they have already arrived. They believe that the petition Forgive us our debts, as we also have forgiven our debtors 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=40.6.12|AUTODETECT|” Matt. 6:12) 1 1 -1 9 0 0 ) was not meant for them. Perhaps they also believe that they have received the second blessing and are therefore superior Christians. There are even those who make propaganda for the error that also the body is already perfect, sickness being a figment of the imagination. Any future redemption of the body (8:23) has little significance for them. To them all Paul is, as it were, saying, You have done away with the biblical doctrine of salvation in hope, for how can one hope for what he already has & or thinks he has? ) 1 7 0 8 0 0 The objection might be raised, But the apostle was not living in our day. Was there any reason why he felt it to be necessary in this epistle to stress the importance of hope, in the life of the believer? Are we able to prove that there were people in the Roman church who considered themselves strong, and able, accordingly, to dispense, at least to some extent, with hope, since they had already arrived? ) The answer is in the affirmative. By and large the Roman church ranked high in Paul s estimation. See 1:8; 15:14. But there were exceptions, as the following passages indicate:) Do not think too highly of yourself (12:3).) You, then, why do you judge your brother? (14:10).) Therefore let us stop passing judgment on one another (14:13).) We who are strong ought to bear with the failings of the weak, and not to please ourselves (15:1).) The conclusion is truly beautiful: But since we hope for that which we do not see, we wait for it with patient endurance. ��235��) 1 1 0 8 0 “tw://bible.?id=47.4.18|AUTODETECT|” This reminds us of a similar Pauline passage, namely, We fix our eyes not on the things that are seen, but on the things that are not seen; for the things that are seen are temporal, but the things that are not seen are eternal 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=47.4.18|AUTODETECT|” II Cor. 4:18) 1 1 -1 9 0 0 ). In the meantime:) 1 14 0 8 0 0 Ye fearful saints, fresh courage take;) The clouds ye so much dread) Are big with mercy and shall break) In blessings on your head.) His purposes will ripen fast,) Unfolding every hour,) The bud may have a bitter taste,) But sweet will be the flower.) William Cowper, 1772) 26, 27. And in the same way the Spirit too is helping us in our weakness, for we do not know what we ought to pray, but the Spirit himself intercedes for us with unspoken groanings. And he who searches the hearts knows what is the Spirit s intention, that he is interceding for the saints in harmony with God s will.) C. The Spirit s Groanings) Having discussed the groaning of the creation (verses 19 22) and of God s children (verses 23 25), Paul now introduces the groanings of the Spirit (verses 26, 27). He tells us something about their (a) necessity, (b) Author and character, and (c) effectiveness.) (1) Their Necessity) The apostle points to our weakness, human limitation due to sinfulness. That weakness consists, at least in part, in this, that we do not know what we ought to pray.

We are not sure about the prayer content that is in harmony with God s will (see verse 27). By saying we the apostle is including himself.) 1 1 0 8 0 “tw://bible.?id=49.3.14-49.3.19|AUTODETECT|” It may seem strange for a man of Paul s stature to make this admission. How was it possible for this marvelous missionary, ardent lover of souls, divinely inspired author, to make such a statement? With the exception of the prayers of Jesus Christ, is there anything in the line of prayer more thought-filled, fervent, and sublime than the apostle s prayer recorded in ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=49.3.14-49.3.19|AUTODETECT|” Eph. 3:14 19) 1 1 -1 9 0 0 ?) 1 1 0 8 0 “tw://bible.?id=48.5.22|AUTODETECT|” The solution is probably along this line: Paul certainly knew what the general content of prayer should be. He knew that one should pray for the forgiving spirit, for peace among the members of the church, increase in knowledge of spiritual things, readiness to bear witness for Christ, courage amid affliction and persecution, helpfulness toward all who are in need, gratitude toward God; in fact, all the fruits of the Spirit 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=48.5.22|AUTODETECT|” Gal. 5:22) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=48.5.23|AUTODETECT|” , ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=48.5.23|AUTODETECT|” 23) 1 1 -1 9 0 0 ). But what to pray for in any particular difficulty or situation was not always clear.) 1 1 0 8 0 “tw://bible.?id=47.12.7|AUTODETECT|” A good illustration is the incident recorded in ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=47.12.7|AUTODETECT|” II Cor. 12:7) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=50.1.22-50.1.24|AUTODETECT|” , with reference to the thorn in the flesh. Exactly what that thorn may have been no one knows. What we do know is that the apostle found it to be very bothersome. So he prayed, Lord, please remove that thorn. Three times he uttered this prayer. He seems to have been of the opinion that the removal of the thorn would make him a more powerful witness for Christ. But God s answer was, My grace is sufficient for you, for my power is perfected in weakness. And see also ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=50.1.22-50.1.24|AUTODETECT|” Phil. 1:22 24) 1 1 -1 9 0 0 .) 1 6 0 8 0 0 Another illustration taken from life runs as follows: A pastor, loved by his people, became grievously ill. The congregation prayed, Lord, please restore him to health. But he died. At the funeral a minister who had been a lifelong friend of the departed made this remark to the assembled mourners, Perhaps some of you are in danger of arriving at the conclusion that the heavenly Father does not hear prayer. He does indeed hear prayer, however. But in this particular case two prayers were probably opposing each other.

You were praying, O God, spare his life, for we need him so badly. The Spirit s unspoken prayer was, Take him away, for the congregation is leaning altogether too heavily upon him, not upon thee. And the Father heard that prayer. ) If the objection should be raised, Then why not permit the Holy Spirit to do all the praying? Why should we pray at all?, the answer would be: (a) a child of God needs to, and wants to, pour out his heart to God in prayer and thanksgiving; (b) the Holy Spirit prays only in the hearts of those who pray; (c) God has commanded his people to pray and has promised to grant all such requests as are in harmony with his will; and (d) there must be many prayers which do not need to be counteracted by the Holy Spirit.) The words, the Spirit is helping us in our weakness must not be interpreted too narrowly, as if the meaning would be that the Spirit only helps us to pray. He helps us in our weakness, of whatever nature that weakness may be, including our weakness in prayer.) (2) Their Author and Character��236��) How does the Spirit help us? The answer is, The Spirit himself intercedes for us with unspoken groanings.

What do these words mean?) The most obvious interpretation, the one which the person unaquainted with doctrinal presuppositions would be most likely to adopt is certainly this, that these unspoken words are those of the Spirit.) 1 1 0 8 0 “tw://bible.?id=48.4.6|AUTODETECT|” Not all interpreters agree with this conclusion, however. In order to prove their contention that these groanings are those of the saints, not those of the Holy Spirit, an appeal is made to ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=48.4.6|AUTODETECT|” Gal. 4:6) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=45.8.26|AUTODETECT|” , where the same apostle states, And because you are sons, God sent forth the Spirit of his Son into our hearts, crying, Abba! Father! The further reasoning is as follows, Even though Paul seems to be saying that the Spirit is crying Abba! Father! he cannot mean this, for God cannot be the Father of the Holy Spirit. Therefore, it must be true that the cry is uttered not by the Spirit but by God s children, although through the Spirit. The same must be true here in ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=45.8.26|AUTODETECT|” Rom. 8:26) 1 1 -1 9 0 0 b: the groanings, though ascribed to the Spirit, who may well be their Author, are actually those of God s children. It is they who groan. ) 1 1 0 8 0 “tw://bible.?id=48.4.6|AUTODETECT|” With due respect for those who so reason, I must, nevertheless, disagree. The appeal to ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=48.4.6|AUTODETECT|” Gal. 4:6) 1 1 -1 9 0 0 is not conclusive. Note the following meaningful differences, which at the same time are reasons for believing that the groanings are those of the Spirit:) 1 1 0 8 0 “tw://bible.*?id=45.8.26|AUTODETECT|”

1. Here in ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=45.8.26|AUTODETECT|” Rom. 8:26) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=48.4.6|AUTODETECT|” b Paul does not say, the Spirit intercedes for us. He says. The Spirit himself��237�� intercedes for us with groanings, etc. There is therefore a real difference between ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=48.4.6|AUTODETECT|” Gal. 4:6) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=45.8.26|AUTODETECT|” and ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.*?id=45.8.26|AUTODETECT|” Rom. 8:26) 1 1 -1 9 0 0 b.) 1 1 0 8 0 0
2. In order to make his meaning even more unambiguous, the apostle continues in verse 27 by saying, And he who searches the hearts knows what is the Spirit s intention. Not: the intention of believers, but that of the Spirit. Exegetically, therefore, I am forced to agree with those who say that the groanings to which reference is made here in verse 26 are those of the Spirit.) 1 1 0 8 0 “tw://bible.?id=45.8.26|AUTODETECT|” Is not the real reason why certain eminent interpreters refuse to ascribe these groanings to the Spirit theological rather than exegetical? They do not wish to ascribe to any of the three persons of the Holy Trinity qualities that would seem to be unworthy of him. At times this reason is stated in so many words.��238�� And even though I cannot agree with their exegesis of ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=45.8.26|AUTODETECT|” Rom. 8:26) 1 1 -1 9 0 0 , particularly with their unwillingness to ascribe to the Spirit these groanings, I honor them for their desire to remain doctrinally sound, especially in a day and age when by many such soundness is ridiculed. But exegetical accuracy is as important as doctrinal purity. Both are needed.) 1 3 0 8 0 0 To the reasons given for believing that the groanings of verse 26 are those of the Spirit, the following should be added:) 3. Since in verse 23 Paul has already discussed the groanings of the saints, it is hard to believe that he would return to this subject in verse 26. Moreover, the words introducing verse 26, namely, And in the same way imply a comparison; most likely between, on the one hand, the groanings of the creation and of believers (respectively verses 19 22; verses 23, 24); and, on the other, the groanings of the Spirit (verses 26, 27).) 4. In verse 26 these groanings are linked inseparably with the Spirit s intercession. This intercession is mentioned again in verse 27. In verse 34 the verb which in verse 27 describes the Spirit s intercession, is used in connection with the Son s intercession. If, then, verse 34 refers to Christ s own intercessory prayer, why should not verse 27 describe the Spirit s own intercession, accompanied by groaning s?��239��) 1 1 0 8 0 “tw://bible.?id=59.4.5|AUTODETECT|” Exactly what this groaning of the Holy Spirit implies would be difficult to define. Are we in error when we state that it means at least the following: the Spirit loves the saints so exceedingly that he yearns for that great day when, delivered from every speck of sin, they will glorify God forever and ever in the perfection of holiness and joy? Although it would be difficult to prove that the words, That Spirit which he made to dwell in us yearns for us even unto jealous envy 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=59.4.5|AUTODETECT|” James 4:5) 1 1 -1 9 0 0 ) are the best translation of the original, yet, they may shed light on the meaning of the Spirit s groaning. And do we not meet with similar highly emotional expressions by means of which we are given a glimpse into the very heart of God? See, for example, the following:) 1 6 0 8 0 0 How can I give you up, O Ephraim?) How can I cast you off, O Israel?) How can I treat you like Admah?) How can I make you like Zeboiim?) My heart is turned over within me,) All my compassions are kindled.) 7 1 0 8 0 “tw://bible.?id=28.11.8|AUTODETECT|” Hos. 11:8) 1 1 0 8 0 0 If one wishes he may call the statement, The Spirit himself intercedes for us with unspoken groanings, highly anthropomorphic. Still, it expresses a truth we can ill afford to neglect. If human knowledge points back to divine omniscience; and human power, to divine omnipotence, it is hard to believe that human emotion reflects nothing at all in God. According to Scripture God is not Buddha, and heaven is not Nirvana!) 7 1 0 8 0 “tw://bible.?id=45.8.0|AUTODETECT|” Romans 8) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=45.8.34|AUTODETECT|” teaches that believers have two intercessors: the Holy Spirit and Christ. Christ performs his intercessory task in heaven 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=45.8.34|AUTODETECT|” Rom. 8:34) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=58.7.25|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=58.7.25|AUTODETECT|” Heb. 7:25) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=62.2.1|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=62.2.1|AUTODETECT|” I John 2:1) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=43.14.16|AUTODETECT|” ); the Holy Spirit, on earth. Christ s intercession takes place outside of us, the Holy Spirit s within us; that is, in our very hearts 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=43.14.16|AUTODETECT|” John 14:16) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=43.14.17|AUTODETECT|” , ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=43.14.17|AUTODETECT|”

17. 1 1 -1 9 0 0 ). Christ prays that the merits of his redemptive work may be fully applied to those who trust in him. The Holy Spirit prays that the deeply hidden needs of our hearts, needs which we ourselves sometimes do not even recognize, may be met. Christ s intercession may be compared with that of a father, the head of the family, for all the family members. The Holy Spirit s intercession reminds us rather of a mother kneeling at the bedside of her ailing child, and in her prayer presenting that child s needs to the heavenly Father.��240��) 1 3 0 8 0 0 (3) Their Effectiveness) The Spirit s intercession, accompanied by groanings, is not fruitless. Would not he who is constantly searching human hearts be able to read the intention of his own Spirit, who dwells in these hearts? Would he not know the meaning of that Spirit s unspoken groanings?) Again and again Scripture bears testimony to the truth of God s omniscience. See, for example, the following passages:) 1 1 0 8 0 “tw://bible.?id=9.16.7|AUTODETECT|” Man looks at the outward appearance, but the Lord looks at the heart 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=9.16.7|AUTODETECT|” I Sam. 16:7) 1 1 -1 9 0 0 ).) 1 1 0 8 0 “tw://bible.?id=11.8.39|AUTODETECT|” Thou alone knowest the hearts of all the sons of men 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=11.8.39|AUTODETECT|” I Kings 8:39) 1 1 -1 9 0 0 ).) 1 1 0 8 0 “tw://bible.?id=13.28.9|AUTODETECT|” The Lord searches every heart and understands every motive 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=13.28.9|AUTODETECT|” I Chron. 28:9) 1 1 -1 9 0 0 ).) 1 1 0 8 0 “tw://bible.?id=19.139.1|AUTODETECT|” O Lord, thou hast searched me and known me. Thou knowest when I sit down and when I rise up & 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=19.139.1|AUTODETECT|” Ps. 139:1) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=19.139.2|AUTODETECT|” , ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=19.139.2|AUTODETECT|”
18. 1 1 -1 9 0 0 ). The entire Psalm bears testimony to God s omnipresence and omniscience.) 1 1 0 8 0 “tw://bible.?id=20.15.11|AUTODETECT|” Sheol and Abaddon lie open before the Lord 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=20.15.11|AUTODETECT|” Prov. 15:11) 1 1 -1 9 0 0 ).) 1 1 0 8 0 “tw://bible.?id=24.17.9|AUTODETECT|” The heart is deceitful above all things. It is exceedingly corrupt: who can know it? I, the Lord, search the mind. I try the heart 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=24.17.9|AUTODETECT|” Jer. 17:9) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=24.17.10|AUTODETECT|” , ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=24.17.10|AUTODETECT|”
19. 1 1 -1 9 0 0 ).) 1 1 0 8 0 “tw://bible.?id=44.1.24|AUTODETECT|” Lord, thou knowest everyone s heart 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=44.1.24|AUTODETECT|” Acts 1:24) 1 1 -1 9 0 0 ).) 1 1 0 8 0 “tw://bible.?id=46.4.5|AUTODETECT|” The Lord will bring to light what is hidden in darkness and will expose the motives of men s hearts 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=46.4.5|AUTODETECT|” I Cor. 4:5) 1 1 -1 9 0 0 ).) 1 1 0 8 0 “tw://bible.?id=58.4.13|AUTODETECT|” There is no creature hidden from God s sight. All things are open and laid bare before the eyes of him to whom we must give account 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=58.4.13|AUTODETECT|” Heb. 4:13) 1 1 -1 9 0 0 ).) 1 6 0 8 0 0 But not only does God know everything. What is emphasized is that he knows that the Spirit is interceding in harmony with his (God s) own will. Are not Father, Son, and Holy Spirit the One true God? Any clash between them is therefore impossible.) Note too that the Holy Spirit is described as constantly interceding for the saints, that is, for those people who have been set apart in order to live lives to the glory of the Triune God as revealed in Christ Jesus. See on 1:7.) And since there is perfect harmony between the persons of the Holy Trinity, so that the Spirit s intercession, accompanied by groanings, coincides completely with the Father s will, the result must be that this intercession is always effective. It never fails.

None of the saints is ever lost. All reach heaven at last. Better still: see verse 28.��241��) 28. And we know that to those who love God all things work together for good; that is, to those who are called according to (his) purpose.) The present passage is a kind of summary of 8:1 27. It prepares for, and to some extent is similar to, the grand climax found in verses 37 39. It cannot be fully understood except in the light of verses 1 27.

It draws a conclusion; in fact, a very comforting conclusion.) Paul has shown that for those who are in Christ Jesus there is now no condemnation (verses 1 8). They are indwelt by that Spirit who will even raise their bodies gloriously (verses 9 11). They receive the assurance that they are God s children, and as such, his heirs (verses 14 16). Their present suffering for Christ and for his cause means that one day they will share his glory, a glory so marvelous that in comparison with it hardships fade away into nothingness (verse 18). They will dwell in that new heaven and earth to which all creation with groaning is looking forward (verses 19 22). They themselves also groan as they eagerly await their adoption (verses 23 25).

In all their weaknesses the Holy Spirit helps them. That Spirit always intercedes for them in harmony with God s will, so that this intercession, accompanied by wordless groanings, will certainly be effective (verses 26, 27).) 1 1 0 8 0 “tw://bible.?id=46.8.1|AUTODETECT|” So Paul says, And we know see also 3:19; 7:14; 8:22; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=46.8.1|AUTODETECT|” I Cor. 8:1) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=46.8.4|AUTODETECT|” , ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=46.8.4|AUTODETECT|” 4) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=46.13.9|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=46.13.9|AUTODETECT|” 13:9) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=47.5.1|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=47.5.1|AUTODETECT|” II Cor. 5:1) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=54.1.8|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=54.1.8|AUTODETECT|” I Tim. 1:8) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=1.46.30|AUTODETECT|” that to those who love God all things work together for good & On what else does he base this knowledge? Probably on two additional grounds: (a) Experience; that is, the effect on him of knowing how God had dealt with him and with others in the past. See such passages as ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=1.46.30|AUTODETECT|” Gen. 46:30) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=1.48.3|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=1.48.3|AUTODETECT|” 48:3) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=1.48.4|AUTODETECT|” , ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=1.48.4|AUTODETECT|” 4) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=5.5.0|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=5.5.0|AUTODETECT|” Deut. 5) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=6.24.1-6.24.15|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=6.24.1-6.24.15|AUTODETECT|” Josh. 24:1 15) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=9.7.1-9.7.12|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=9.7.1-9.7.12|AUTODETECT|” I Sam. 7:1 12) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=10.23.1-10.23.5|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=10.23.1-10.23.5|AUTODETECT|” II Sam. 23:1 5) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=11.8.22-11.8.24|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=11.8.22-11.8.24|AUTODETECT|” I Kings 8:22 24) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=23.63.9|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=23.63.9|AUTODETECT|” Isa. 63:9) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=44.26.1-44.26.23|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=44.26.1-44.26.23|AUTODETECT|” Acts 26:1 23) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=48.2.19|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=48.2.19|AUTODETECT|” Gal. 2:19) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=48.2.20|AUTODETECT|” , ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=48.2.20|AUTODETECT|” 20) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=1.45.5|AUTODETECT|” . And (b) Acquaintance with specific biblical passages which teach that in God s providence all things result in blessing for God s children, evil being overruled for good 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=1.45.5|AUTODETECT|” Gen. 45:5) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=1.45.7|AUTODETECT|” , ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=1.45.7|AUTODETECT|” 7) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=1.45.8|AUTODETECT|” , ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=1.45.8|AUTODETECT|” 8) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=1.50.20|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=1.50.20|AUTODETECT|” 50:20) 1 1 -1 9 0 0 ).) 1 8 0 8 0 0 Some find it difficult to accept the statement, All things work together for good. They seem to think that such an expression ascribes to mere things qualities such as wisdom and intelligence which these things do not possess. In order to overcome this difficulty these interpreters suggest that the statement should read, In all things [or: in everything] God works for good, or God causes all things to work for good. Somehow the word God must be included in this clause. Otherwise, as some see it, it would result in heresy: a materialistic, perhaps evolutionistic, philosophy of life and history. Even if we must disagree, should we not love and honor these people for their motive?

And if we answer them by stating You have no right to insert the word God where the original does not have it, they quickly answer that they have found a reading that supports their view.��242��) The answer to this is as follows:) Though no one knows how this variant originated, its acceptance results in a sentence that would make Paul a rather clumsy stylist.��243�� Besides, if Paul really dictated, and Tertius really wrote, In all things God works for good, or God causes all things to work for good, it is very hard, indeed, to believe that this second mention of the word God the first was in the clause who love God would ever have been dropped from the text.) Others, rightly dissatisfied with making the word God the subject of the clause, borrow a subject from the preceding context. They go back to The Spirit is helping us in our weakness & intercedes for us, etc., and then continue the sentence as follows: and in everything, as we know, he [that is, the Spirit] co-operates for good with those who love God. ��244��) But this rendering, if adhered to all the way, runs into difficulty when it reaches verse 29, for that verse would then read as follows, For whom he [the Spirit, if N.E.B. s translation of verse 28 is correct] foreknew, he also foreordained to be conformed to the image of his [the Spirit s] Son. This, of course, is impossible, for nowhere in Scripture is Jesus Christ called the Son of the Holy Spirit! So at this point N.E.B. inserts the word God: For God knew his own & But here the word God is not in the original Greek text.) As I see it, every attempt to avoid making all things the subject of the clause has failed.��245�� The old yes, very old! rendering, namely, & all things work together for good ��246�� should stand. It is only fair to add that whether one translates one way or the other that is, whether one (a) erroneously accepts the word God or he [the Spirit] as the subject of the clause; or (b) correctly views all things as being the real subject hence, all things work together for good the result remains about the same, namely, that in God s all-embracing providence all things work together for good to those who love God.) What is more important and necessary is that we accept the following three facts:) a. All things, no less! cooperate for good) 1 1 0 8 0 “tw://bible.?id=45.8.18|AUTODETECT|” Not only prosperity is included but so also is adversity; not only joy and happiness but also suffering and sadness 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=45.8.18|AUTODETECT|” Rom. 8:18) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=45.8.35-45.8.37|AUTODETECT|” , ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=45.8.35-45.8.37|AUTODETECT|” 35 37) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=1.50.20|AUTODETECT|” ). Evil designs are by God overruled for good 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=1.50.20|AUTODETECT|” Gen. 50:20) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=16.4.15|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=16.4.15|AUTODETECT|” Neh. 4:15) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=58.1.14|AUTODETECT|” ). Not only what the saints themselves experience is included but also whatever lies outside the sphere of their personal experience. Specifically, the following entities are among those that are divinely ordered and directed so that they work together for good to those who love God: the good angels 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=58.1.14|AUTODETECT|” Heb. 1:14) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=45.16.20|AUTODETECT|” ) and Satan together with his hosts 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=45.16.20|AUTODETECT|” Rom. 16:20) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=49.6.10-49.6.16|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=49.6.10-49.6.16|AUTODETECT|” Eph. 6:10 16) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=19.2.2-19.2.9|AUTODETECT|” ); the nations of the world and their rulers 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=19.2.2-19.2.9|AUTODETECT|” Ps. 2:2 9) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=19.48.4-19.48.8|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=19.48.4-19.48.8|AUTODETECT|” 48:4 8) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=19.149.9|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=19.149.9|AUTODETECT|” 149:9) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=44.9.15|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=44.9.15|AUTODETECT|” Acts 9:15) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=9.12.18-9.12.20|AUTODETECT|” ); rain and thunder 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=9.12.18-9.12.20|AUTODETECT|” I Sam. 12:18 20) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=19.46.4|AUTODETECT|” ); streams, mountains, and clouds 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=19.46.4|AUTODETECT|” Ps. 46:4) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=19.72.3|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=19.72.3|AUTODETECT|” 72:3) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=40.24.30|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=40.24.30|AUTODETECT|” Matt. 24:30) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=66.1.7|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=66.1.7|AUTODETECT|” Rev. 1:7) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=7.5.20|AUTODETECT|” ); and even the stars in their courses 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=7.5.20|AUTODETECT|” Judg. 5:20) 1 1 -1 9 0 0 ).) 1 1 0 8 0 0 b. It is only to those who love God that all things work together for good) 1 1 0 8 0 “tw://bible.?id=2.20.6|AUTODETECT|” In the original as also in A.R.V. and in my rendering the words And we know that to those who love God all things work together for good stand at the very beginning of the sentence. The meaning is this: they, and they alone, have a right to be comforted by this fact. Only in the case of those who love God is it true that all things work together for good. This is clear from such passages as the following: ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=2.20.6|AUTODETECT|” Exod. 20:6) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=5.7.9|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=5.7.9|AUTODETECT|” Deut. 7:9) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=16.1.5|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=16.1.5|AUTODETECT|” Neh. 1:5) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=19.37.17|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=19.37.17|AUTODETECT|” Ps. 37:17) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=19.37.20|AUTODETECT|” , ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=19.37.20|AUTODETECT|” 20) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=19.37.37-19.37.40|AUTODETECT|” , ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=19.37.37-19.37.40|AUTODETECT|” 37 40) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=19.97.10|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=19.97.10|AUTODETECT|” 97:10) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=23.56.6|AUTODETECT|” , 116:1 f.; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=23.56.6|AUTODETECT|” Isa. 56:6) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=23.56.7|AUTODETECT|” , ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=23.56.7|AUTODETECT|” 7) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=46.2.9|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=46.2.9|AUTODETECT|” I Cor. 2:9) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=46.8.3|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=46.8.3|AUTODETECT|” 8:3) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=59.1.12|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=59.1.12|AUTODETECT|” James 1:12) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=59.2.5|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=59.2.5|AUTODETECT|” 2:5) 1 1 -1 9 0 0 . All these references emphasize the importance of loving God and/or delighting in him.) 1 2 0 8 0 0 c. They love God because he first loved them) That surely is the meaning of the words, & to those who love God all things work together for good; that is, to those who are called according to (his) purpose. Though it is true that the word his that is, God s does not occur in the original, nevertheless, the only other passage in the entire book of Romans where this word purpose is found, namely 9:11 , proves that Paul was thinking about God s purpose, not man s.) 1 1 0 8 0 “tw://bible.?id=45.1.7|AUTODETECT|” The people who were called according to God s purpose are, therefore, those who were effectively called. They are those whose hearts and minds were so thoroughly influenced by the Holy Spirit that they became aware of their sinfulness, began to understand their need of Christ, and embraced him as their Lord and Savior. See above, on ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=45.1.7|AUTODETECT|” Rom. 1:7) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=45.8.30|AUTODETECT|” , p. 47. See also ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=45.8.30|AUTODETECT|” Rom. 8:30) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=45.9.24|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=45.9.24|AUTODETECT|” 9:24) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=46.1.2|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=46.1.2|AUTODETECT|” I Cor. 1:2) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=46.1.24|AUTODETECT|” , ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=46.1.24|AUTODETECT|” 24) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=46.7.17|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=46.7.17|AUTODETECT|” 7:17) 1 1 -1 9 0 0 f.) 1 1 0 8 0 “tw://bible.?id=62.4.19|AUTODETECT|” Paul felt that it was necessary to add the words, to those who are called according to his [God s] purpose, in order that the Romans and all who would read this letter or hear it read to them would realize that no one can ever truly love God unless first of all he is effectively called. In other words, the apostle to the Gentiles is here expressing substantially the same thought as did the apostle John when he wrote, We love God because he first loved us 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=62.4.19|AUTODETECT|” I John 4:19) 1 1 -1 9 0 0 ).) 1 1 0 8 0 “tw://bible.?id=45.8.28|AUTODETECT|” What Paul is really saying then, here in ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=45.8.28|AUTODETECT|” Rom. 8:28) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=50.2.12|AUTODETECT|” , is this, We know that to those who love God and do so because of God s work in them, as determined by his sovereign, elective purpose, all things work together for good. In this manner human responsibility is fully maintained, but God Triune receives all the honor. Cf. ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=50.2.12|AUTODETECT|” Phil. 2:12) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=50.2.13|AUTODETECT|” , ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=50.2.13|AUTODETECT|” 13) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=53.2.13|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=53.2.13|AUTODETECT|” II Thess. 2:13) 1 1 -1 9 0 0 .) 1 3 0 8 0 0 29, 30. For whom he foreknew, he also foreordained to be conformed to the image of his Son, so that he might be the firstborn among many brothers; and whom he foreordained, these he also called; and whom he called, these he also justified; and whom he justified, these he also glorified.) The Salvation Chain) When Paul states that to those who love God and are called according to his purpose all things work together for good, he is not thinking only of those things that can be seen round about us now, or those events that are taking place now; no, he includes even time and eternity. The chain of salvation he is discussing reaches back to that which, considered from a human standpoint, could be called the dim past, the quiet recess of eternity, and forward into the boundless future.) 1 1 0 8 0 “tw://bible.?id=45.8.29|AUTODETECT|” One very important fact must be mentioned: every link in this chain of salvation represents a divine action. To be sure, human responsibility and action is not thereby ruled out, but here 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=45.8.29|AUTODETECT|” Rom. 8:29) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=45.8.30|AUTODETECT|” , ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=45.8.30|AUTODETECT|” 30) 1 1 -1 9 0 0 ) it is never specifically mentioned.) 1 4 0 8 0 0 There are five links in this chain. Note that the predicate of the first clause becomes the subject of the next one, a construction called sorities.��247��) A. Foreknowledge) & whom he foreknew. ) Is it possible to interpret Paul s words in this sense: Before the world was created God foresaw who were going to believe in him and who would not. So, on the basis of that foreseen faith, he decided to elect to salvation those good people who were going to exercise it?) 1 1 0 8 0 “tw://bible.?id=49.2.8|AUTODETECT|” Answer: such a construction is entirely impossible, for according to Scripture even faith is God s gift. See N.T.C. on Ephesians, pp. 120 123 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=49.2.8|AUTODETECT|” Eph. 2:8) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=43.6.44|AUTODETECT|” ). See also ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=43.6.44|AUTODETECT|” John 6:44) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=43.6.65|AUTODETECT|” , ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=43.6.65|AUTODETECT|” 65) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=46.4.7|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=46.4.7|AUTODETECT|” I Cor. 4:7) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=50.1.29|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=50.1.29|AUTODETECT|” Phil. 1:29) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=49.2.10|AUTODETECT|” . In fact, even the good works performed by believers are prepared beforehand by God! 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=49.2.10|AUTODETECT|” Eph. 2:10) 1 1 -1 9 0 0 ).) 1 1 0 8 0 “tw://bible.?id=45.8.29|AUTODETECT|” On the contrary, the foreknowledge mentioned in ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=45.8.29|AUTODETECT|” Rom. 8:29) 1 1 -1 9 0 0 refers to divine active delight. It indicates that, in his own sovereign good pleasure, God set his love on certain individuals, many still to be born, gladly acknowledging them as his own, electing them to everlasting life and glory. Note the following:) 1 1 0 8 0 “tw://bible.?id=1.18.19|AUTODETECT|” For I have known him [Abraham] so that he may direct his children and his household after him 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=1.18.19|AUTODETECT|” Gen. 18:19) 1 1 -1 9 0 0 ).) 1 1 0 8 0 “tw://bible.?id=24.1.5|AUTODETECT|” Before I formed you in the womb I knew you, Before you were born I set you apart 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=24.1.5|AUTODETECT|” Jer. 1:5) 1 1 -1 9 0 0 ).) 1 1 0 8 0 “tw://bible.?id=43.10.14|AUTODETECT|” I am the good shepherd, and I know my own 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=43.10.14|AUTODETECT|” John 10:14) 1 1 -1 9 0 0 ). Cf. 10:28.) 1 1 0 8 0 “tw://bible.?id=55.2.19|AUTODETECT|” The Lord knows who are his 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=55.2.19|AUTODETECT|” II Tim. 2:19) 1 1 -1 9 0 0 ).) 1 1 0 8 0 “tw://bible.?id=19.1.6|AUTODETECT|” Add the following: ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=19.1.6|AUTODETECT|” Ps. 1:6) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=30.3.2|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=30.3.2|AUTODETECT|” Amos 3:2) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=28.13.5|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=28.13.5|AUTODETECT|” Hos. 13:5) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=40.7.23|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=40.7.23|AUTODETECT|” Matt. 7:23) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=46.8.3|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=46.8.3|AUTODETECT|” I Cor. 8:3) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=48.4.9|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=48.4.9|AUTODETECT|” Gal. 4:9) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=62.3.1|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=62.3.1|AUTODETECT|” I John 3:1) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=45.11.2|AUTODETECT|” ; and see also on ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=45.11.2|AUTODETECT|” Rom. 11:2) 1 1 -1 9 0 0 .) 1 4 0 8 0 0 The term prognosis [foreknowledge] reveals the fact that in his purpose according to election the persons are not the objects of God s bare foreknowledge but of his active delight. ��248��) B. Foreordination with a View to Conformation) & he also foreordained to be conformed to the image of his Son, so that he might be the firstborn among many brothers. ) In reality foreknowledge already imples foreordination. Nevertheless, there is a difference of emphasis. Whereas the first term directs our attention to the persons whom God elected and only in a general way to their final destiny (everlasting life, glory), the term foreordination fixes our thought more definitely on the purpose for which they were elected and on the means of attaining it. That goal is not just to enter heaven at last but to be conformed to the image of God s Son. ) 1 1 0 8 0 “tw://bible.?id=47.4.4|AUTODETECT|” Man was created as this is probably better than in��249�� God s image. That image was distorted by sin, but was restored in Christ, who was and is the image of God 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=47.4.4|AUTODETECT|” II Cor. 4:4) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=51.1.15|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=51.1.15|AUTODETECT|” Col. 1:15) 1 1 -1 9 0 0 ).) 1 11 0 8 0 0 The question has been asked, When Paul describes the purpose of foreordination to be that those whom God foreknew should be conformed to the image of his Son, does he have in mind (a) only the final conformation; that is, only that part of transformation into Christ s image that will take place at his Return; or is he referring to (b) the entire process of transformation, beginning already when the sinner is brought out of the darkness into the light? On this point there is a difference of opinion among commentators.) Position (a) Only Final Position (b) Also Present ) Greijdanus, Vol. I, p. 390 Calvin, p. 318 ) Lenski, p. 561 Cranfield, Vol. I, p. 432 ) Murray, Vol. I, p. 319 Lekkerkerker, Vol. I, p. 354 ) Ridderbos, p. 196 Robertson, W.

P., IV, p. 377 ) Van Leeuwen-Jacobs, p. 160 ) Zahn, p. 417��250�� ) ) ) Those who accept Position (a) point out that the context favors this position: verses 11 and 23 refer to the glorious resurrection of the body, and verse 21 to a gloriously renewed universe. These renewals will not take place until the day of Christ s Return. From this they draw the conclusion that also the conformation to the image of Christ must be interpreted as a great eschatological event that will occur on the day of The Great Consummation.) 1 1 0 8 0 “tw://bible.?id=50.3.21|AUTODETECT|” Now if the conformation to the image of God s Son is limited to the refashioning of our lowly body so that it will have a form like Christ s glorious body 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=50.3.21|AUTODETECT|” Phil. 3:21) 1 1 -1 9 0 0 , to which reference is often made in this connection), then the question is immediately settled in favor of Position (a), for that conformation will certainly not take place until then.) 1 2 0 8 0 0 However, in a context which deals with such matters as calling, justification, and glorification not many interpreters would accept this narrow interpretation of the words to be conformed to the image of his Son. It is the spiritual conformation or transformation Paul has in mind here.) Once this is granted, the weight of the evidence, I believe, turns sharply in the direction of Position (b), and this for the following reasons:) 1 1 0 8 0 “tw://bible.*?id=49.1.4|AUTODETECT|”

1. In arriving at the meaning of He also foreordained to be conformed to the image of his Son the chief determining factor is not 8:11, 21, 23, but the much closer For whom he foreknew of verse 29a. That word carries us back to the eternity which, humanly speaking, preceded the foundation of the earth 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=49.1.4|AUTODETECT|” Eph. 1:4) 1 1 -1 9 0 0 ). Is it not logical, therefore, to view the conformation to the image of his Son to pertain not only to what will happen on the day of Christ s Return but also to what happens in the lengthy period before that Return? If we do not do this, are we not then creating a gap of very lengthy duration about which nothing is said?) 1 1 0 8 0 “tw://bible.?id=45.12.1|AUTODETECT|”
2. Other passages such as ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=45.12.1|AUTODETECT|” Rom. 12:1) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=49.4.32-49.5.2|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=49.4.32-49.5.2|AUTODETECT|” Eph. 4:32 5:2) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=50.3.10|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=50.3.10|AUTODETECT|” Phil. 3:10) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=51.3.10|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=51.3.10|AUTODETECT|” Col. 3:10) 1 1 -1 9 0 0 regarding spiritual renewal cannot be interpreted as being connected with the day of Christ s Return.) 1 1 0 8 0 “tw://bible.?id=47.3.18|AUTODETECT|”
3. Basically the required transformation is not man s work but God s. Is not that also the thought expressed in ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.*?id=47.3.18|AUTODETECT|” II Cor. 3:18) 1 1 -1 9 0 0 which even contains the words we are being transformed into the same image ? Here, again, the renewal described is happening now, not solely at Christ s Return.) 1 1 0 8 0 0
4. If gradual renewal into the image of Christ is not what Paul had in mind, are we not forced to conclude that one very important link in the chain of salvation, namely the link of sanctification, is missing? The answer given by some that justification includes sanctification does not satisfy. There is indeed a very close relation between these two but never are they identified.) 1 1 0 8 0 “tw://bible.?id=53.2.13|AUTODETECT|” On the basis of the given reasons I believe that the conformation to the image of his Son, of which the apostle speaks here in 8:29, refers to sanctification. This, too, is basically God s work 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=53.2.13|AUTODETECT|” II Thess. 2:13) 1 1 -1 9 0 0 ).) 1 5 0 8 0 0 Very significant are the words so that he might be the firstborn among many brothers. ) Two ideas are emphasized here. They form a contrast, yet also harmony. The first is that of Christ s pre-eminence. Decorating a wall of a certain home in Florida and no doubt many other walls elsewhere is a plaque that reads:) THAT in All Things) HE Might Have) THE PRE-EMINENCE) 7 1 0 8 0 “tw://bible.?id=51.1.18|AUTODETECT|” Col. 1:18) 1 1 0 8 0 0 This makes sense; for, if the duty as well as the destiny of believers is to be conformed to the image of God s Son, then he must indeed be pre-eminent. Besides, what a worthwhile reminder this plaque is in the interest of day-to-day Christian life and practice!) 1 1 0 8 0 “tw://bible.?id=58.2.11|AUTODETECT|” The second idea conveyed by this passage is that of Christ s humility and marvelous love for those whom he, by means of his redemptive sacrifice, has made his own. Note that he might be the firstborn among many brothers! In other words, the Exalted Savior does not consider himself complete apart from those whom he came to save! See ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=58.2.11|AUTODETECT|” Heb. 2:11) 1 1 -1 9 0 0 , noting also its reference to sanctification.) 1 1 0 8 0 “tw://bible.?id=51.1.15|AUTODETECT|” For the idea of Christ as firstborn see also ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=51.1.15|AUTODETECT|” Col. 1:15) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=58.1.6|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=58.1.6|AUTODETECT|” Heb. 1:6) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=66.1.5|AUTODETECT|” ; and ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=66.1.5|AUTODETECT|” Rev. 1:5) 1 1 -1 9 0 0 .) 1 2 0 8 0 0 C. Calling) & and whom he foreordained, these he also called. ) 1 1 0 8 0 “tw://bible.?id=45.1.7|AUTODETECT|” From that which pertains to eternity, namely, foreknowing and foreordaining though their effects are being historically realized, Paul now, by a very logical transition, enters into the realm of time. The apostle refers, of course, to the effective call. What this call means has been explained in connection with ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=45.1.7|AUTODETECT|” Rom. 1:7) 1 1 -1 9 0 0 (see p. 46) and 8:28 (see p. 281). By means of Spirit-wrought conversion and faith man responds to this call.) 1 5 0 8 0 0 D. Justification) & and whom he called, these he also justified. ) As has been explained earlier, in a sense Justification by Faith is the theme of Romans. Its meaning has been set forth on pp. 61 66, 128 131.) E. Glorification) & and whom he justified, these he also glorified. ) 1 1 0 8 0 “tw://bible.?id=45.8.17|AUTODETECT|” Believers will share in Christ s glory 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=45.8.17|AUTODETECT|” Rom. 8:17) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=51.1.27|AUTODETECT|” ). Nothing can be greater glory than that which is bestowed upon Christ s followers because of their intimate union with Christ 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=51.1.27|AUTODETECT|” Col. 1:27) 1 1 -1 9 0 0 ).��251��) 1 1 0 8 0 “tw://bible.?id=45.8.11|AUTODETECT|” Not only will God s children receive gloriously transformed bodies 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=45.8.11|AUTODETECT|” Rom. 8:11) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=45.8.23|AUTODETECT|” , ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.*?id=45.8.23|AUTODETECT|”

23. 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=46.15.43-46.15.53|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=46.15.43-46.15.53|AUTODETECT|” I Cor. 15:43 53) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=50.3.21|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=50.3.21|AUTODETECT|” Phil. 3:21) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=62.3.2|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=62.3.2|AUTODETECT|” I John 3:2) 1 1 -1 9 0 0 ), but on and after the day of the resurrection they will shine forth in all their glory in both soul and body, these having now become reunited.) 1 1 0 8 0 “tw://bible.?id=45.5.2|AUTODETECT|” So certain is the believers future glory that, even though it can be considered an object of hope 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=45.5.2|AUTODETECT|” Rom. 5:2) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=45.8.30|AUTODETECT|” ), and therefore a matter pertaining to the future, here in ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=45.8.30|AUTODETECT|” Rom. 8:30) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=51.3.1|AUTODETECT|” it is described as if it had already become a reality: he also glorified. ��252�� And is it not true that in a sense believers were raised with Christ 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=51.3.1|AUTODETECT|” Col. 3:1) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=49.4.8|AUTODETECT|” ), and were in his train when he ascended to heaven 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=49.4.8|AUTODETECT|” Eph. 4:8) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=47.3.18|AUTODETECT|” )? Are they not even now being transformed from glory to glory 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=47.3.18|AUTODETECT|” II Cor. 3:18) 1 1 -1 9 0 0 )?) 1 1 0 8 0 “tw://bible.?id=65.1.14|AUTODETECT|” This past tense 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=65.1.14|AUTODETECT|” Jude 14) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=23.53.0|AUTODETECT|” ; also most of ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=23.53.0|AUTODETECT|” Isa. 53) 1 1 -1 9 0 0 ) indicates the certainty that a future event will take place and, perhaps, in the present connection, also the fact that the glory promised for the future has already begun to be realized.) 1 29 0 8 0 0 All this reminds us of a stanza from Wordsworth s See the Conqueror Mounts in Triumph:) Thou hast raised our human nature) On the clouds to God s right hand;) There we sit in heavenly places,) There with thee in glory stand.) Jesus reigns, adored by angels,) Man with God is on the throne,) Mighty Lord in thine ascension) We by faith behold our own.) ) 4b. It produces the fruit of super-invincibility; i.e., of being more than conquerors) No, in all these things we are more than conquerors through him who loved us ) 8:31 39) 31 What, then, shall we say in response to these things? If God is for us, who is against us? 32 He who did not spare even his own Son, but gave him up for us all, how will he not also with him graciously give us all things? 33 Who will bring any charge against God s elect? It is God who justifies. 34 Who is he that condemns? (It is) Christ Jesus who died, what is more, who was raised from the dead, who is at the right hand of God, who is also interceding for us.) 35 Who will separate us from the love of Christ? Affliction or distress or persecution or famine or nakedness or peril or sword? 36 As it is written:) For thy sake we are being put to death all the day long;) We are considered as sheep to be slaughtered. ) 37 No, in all these things we are more than conquerors through him who loved us. 38 For I am convinced that neither death nor life nor angels nor principalities nor things present nor things to come nor powers 39 nor height nor depth nor any other created thing will be able to separate us from the love of God which is in Christ Jesus our Lord.) ) 31. What, then, shall we say in response to these things?

If God is for us, who is against us?) What Paul means is, To what conclusion do these things lead us? The expression these things probably refers not only to the matters mentioned in verses 28 30, or even 18 30, but to everything the apostle has so far written in this epistle. What, then, is the summary of that which Paul has been saying in this letter?) He has pointed out that the one thing a sinner needs above all else is right standing with God, and that this right standing is not obtainable by human exertion or merit. That inestimable blessing is God s free gift, and there is only one way to obtain it, namely, by faith. See 1:17; 3:24, 28, 30; 4:1, 2, 7, 8; 5:1, 8, 9; 7:24, 25; 8:1. The blessing of salvation has been earned for everyone, whether Jew or Gentile, who will, by God s power and grace, repose his trust in the Savior.

It was he who earned salvation for his people by the shedding of his blood. They are saved by his substitutionary death, his resurrection, and his intercession (1:4, 5; 3:21 26; 4:25 5:1, 2, 8 21; 6:23; 7:24; 8:1 4; and see also 8:34).) If, then, God is on our side, as he clearly proved by what he did and does for us, who is against us? Not as if all the enemies have already been swept away, but what is any enemy able to achieve against us. God being for us?) When Paul says, If God is for us, he is not calling in doubt God s protecting care, love, and promises. On the contrary, this if means, If & as he certainly is! ) In light of all this the opening question, What, then, shall we say in response to these things? will have to be answered with a very strong, We have nothing to fear. Victory is certainly on our side. ) But the apostle himself gives a far more complete answer in verses 32 39.

The beginning of this answer is found in the next verse:) 32. He who did not spare even his own Son, but gave him up for us all, how will he not also with him graciously give us all things?) He & did not spare even his own Son, but gave him up. The depth of feeling implied in the words of verse 3 sending his own Son is expressed even more vividly here in verse 32.��253�� If this does not mean that, in a sense, giving up his only-begotten and fathomlessly beloved Son was for the Father a genuine sacrifice, words no longer have meaning.) It is possible to think of a judge who does not spare a vicious criminal but pronounces on him the severe sentence he deserves. It is not inconceivable that such a judge might afterward enjoy a good night s sleep.) 1 1 0 8 0 “tw://bible.?id=45.8.32|AUTODETECT|” But what we have here in ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=45.8.32|AUTODETECT|” Rom. 8:32) 1 1 -1 9 0 0 is something else. The following facts should be kept in mind:) 1 1 0 8 0 “tw://bible.?id=43.8.29|AUTODETECT|” God, the Judge, has a Son, an only Son, very precious to him. That Son never committed any sin. In all he did he was ever pleasing his Father 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=43.8.29|AUTODETECT|” John 8:29) 1 1 -1 9 0 0 ).) 1 3 0 8 0 0 On the other hand:) We all like sheep have gone astray,) Each of us has turned to his own way.) 7 1 0 8 0 “tw://bible.?id=23.53.6|AUTODETECT|” Isa. 53:6) 1 1 -1 9 0 0 .) 1 1 0 8 0 “tw://bible.?id=23.53.0|AUTODETECT|” Yet, on this precious and beloved Son God now pronounces the sentence we deserved. It is a sentence immeasurable in its severity, and is carried out in every detail. God did not spare his Son, did not mitigate the severity of the sentence in any way whatever, the Son himself agreeing with the Father and the Spirit in all this. He, the Son, fully bore that horrendous curse. He drank the cup of unspeakable agony to the very last drop. That bitter cup, Love drank it up. It s empty now for me. See ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=23.53.0|AUTODETECT|” Isa. 53) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=45.5.6-45.5.8|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=45.5.6-45.5.8|AUTODETECT|” Rom. 5:6 8) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=45.8.0|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=45.8.0|AUTODETECT|” 8) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=45.3.4|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=45.3.4|AUTODETECT|” 3, 4) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=47.5.21|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=47.5.21|AUTODETECT|” II Cor. 5:21) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=48.3.13|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=48.3.13|AUTODETECT|” Gal. 3:13) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=1.18.25|AUTODETECT|” . It would have been unthinkable for God to reject the demands of his justice. Will not the Judge of all the earth do right? 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=1.18.25|AUTODETECT|” Gen. 18:25) 1 1 -1 9 0 0 ).) 1 1 0 8 0 “tw://bible.?id=43.3.16|AUTODETECT|” We ask, But why was the curse lifted from our shoulders and transferred to the Son of God? The answer is: So deeply, intensely, and marvelously did God love the world that his Son, the only-begotten, he gave, in order that everyone who believes in him should not perish but have life everlasting. Is not that the meaning of ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=43.3.16|AUTODETECT|” John 3:16) 1 1 -1 9 0 0 ?) 1 1 0 8 0 0 There is, of course, a resemblance between:) 1 1 0 8 0 “tw://bible.?id=1.22.12|AUTODETECT|” You [Abraham] have not withheld your son, your only son 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=1.22.12|AUTODETECT|” Gen. 22:12) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=1.22.16|AUTODETECT|” , ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=1.22.16|AUTODETECT|” 16) 1 1 -1 9 0 0 )) 1 1 0 8 0 0 and) 1 1 0 8 0 “tw://bible.?id=45.8.32|AUTODETECT|” He [God] did not spare even his own Son & 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=45.8.32|AUTODETECT|” Rom. 8:32) 1 1 -1 9 0 0 ).) 1 2 0 8 0 0 Yet, it is not the similarity which arrests our attention most of all. It is the contrast. Abraham was rescued in the nick of time, and so was his son Isaac. But Christ bore the wrath fully, willingly.) & for us all. In accordance with the immediately preceding context, the apostle must have been thinking of all those who love God (verse 28), who were foreknown and foreordained (verse 29), were (or were going to be) called, justified, and glorified (verse 30). To this can be added the similar expressions contained in the statements which follow; namely, the elect (verse 33), those for whom Christ makes intercession (verse 34), those who are more than conquerors (verse 37). It was to these people, to them all, to them alone, that the merits of Christ s death had been, were being, or were going to be savingly applied.) 1 1 0 8 0 “tw://bible.?id=45.3.22|AUTODETECT|” Here again, as in connection with 5:18 see above, pp. 182, 183, it is not at all improbable that when Paul says, He [God] gave him [his own Son] up for us all, he included in his thought this idea: God gave up his Son for Jew and Gentile alike, for all his dear children regardless of race, sex, nationality, social standing, etc. See also ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=45.3.22|AUTODETECT|” Rom. 3:22) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=45.3.23|AUTODETECT|” , ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=45.3.23|AUTODETECT|” 23) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=45.3.29|AUTODETECT|” , ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=45.3.29|AUTODETECT|” 29) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=45.10.11-45.10.13|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.*?id=45.10.11-45.10.13|AUTODETECT|” 10:11 13) 1 1 -1 9 0 0 .) 1 5 0 8 0 0 How will he not also with him graciously give us all things? ) The argument is from the greater to the lesser, as in 5:9, 10, 15, 17; 11:12, 24. Nothing could ever be a greater gift than the gift of Christ to the church. That gift is clearly implied in the statement, God did not spare his own Son but gave him up for us all. Moreover, even though giving this Son was an unfathomable sacrifice as plainly implied in God did not spare, nevertheless, it is never a solitary gift: how will he not also together with him graciously that is ungrudgingly, freely, gladly, generously give us all things?) I can see no good reason to limit the expression all things to spiritual blessings, as some do. Paul was a very practical man. He knew that the people he was addressing were men of flesh and blood, who were vexed at times with worries over matters mundane.

The expression all things should therefore be interpreted in an unqualified sense: material as well as spiritual things; cf. 8:28, where it has the same broad meaning.��254��) It is not only about matters in general, both physical and spiritual, that anxieties arise. Underneath everything else, there is that basic worry, What is my standing with God? Paul answers as follows:) 33, 34. Who will bring any charge against God s elect? It is God who justifies. Who is he that condemns? (It is) Christ Jesus who died, what is more, who was raised from the dead, who is at the right hand of God, who is also interceding for us.) 1 1 0 8 0 “tw://bible.?id=23.50.8|AUTODETECT|” Verse 33 is probably an intentional echo of words found in ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=23.50.8|AUTODETECT|” Isa. 50:8) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=23.50.9|AUTODETECT|” , ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=23.50.9|AUTODETECT|” 9) 1 1 -1 9 0 0 a:) 1 2 0 8 0 0 He is near who justifies [or vindicates] me. Who is my accuser? & Behold, the Lord Jehovah will help me. Who is he that will condemn me? ��255��) The rhetorical questions Who will bring any charge& ? Who is he that condemns? amount to a vigorous denial of the suggestion that there could be any valid charge or condemnation.) 1 1 0 8 0 “tw://bible.?id=38.3.1-38.3.5|AUTODETECT|” Are these people not God s elect? Is that not what is implied in 8:29: foreknown & foreordained ? Surely, when, in the dispute between Joshua the highpriest and Satan, God defended Joshua and rebuked Satan, the latter was immediately silenced 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=38.3.1-38.3.5|AUTODETECT|” Zech. 3:1 5) 1 1 -1 9 0 0 ). When God justifies a person, all accusations at once lose their validity.) 1 1 0 8 0 0 The logical nature of this answer is brought out even more clearly by the words that follow, namely, It is Christ Jesus who died & was raised from the dead .. is at the right hand of God & is also interceding for us. ) 1 1 0 8 0 “tw://bible.?id=45.4.25|AUTODETECT|” Here note especially the phrase what is more inserted between the reference to Christ s death and his resurrection. It probably expresses the climactic relationship not only between the first two items but between all the items in the series. To be sure, by means of Christ s death the sins of his people were blotted out. But this fact was established beyond possibility of successful contradiction by the resurrection from the dead. See on ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=45.4.25|AUTODETECT|” Rom. 4:25) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=40.26.64|AUTODETECT|” , p. 161. And the exaltation of God s Son to the right hand of God ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=40.26.64|AUTODETECT|” Matt. 26:64) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=41.14.62|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=41.14.62|AUTODETECT|” Mark 14:62) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=42.22.69|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=42.22.69|AUTODETECT|” Luke 22:69) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=44.2.33|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=44.2.33|AUTODETECT|” Acts 2:33) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=44.3.13|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=44.3.13|AUTODETECT|” 3:13) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=44.5.31|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=44.5.31|AUTODETECT|” 5:31) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=44.7.55|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=44.7.55|AUTODETECT|” 7:55) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=44.7.56|AUTODETECT|” , ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=44.7.56|AUTODETECT|” 56) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=49.1.20|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=49.1.20|AUTODETECT|” Eph. 1:20) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=51.3.1|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=51.3.1|AUTODETECT|” Col. 3:1) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=58.1.3|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=58.1.3|AUTODETECT|” Heb. 1:3) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=58.2.9|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=58.2.9|AUTODETECT|” 2:9) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=58.8.1|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=58.8.1|AUTODETECT|” 8:1) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=58.10.12|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=58.10.12|AUTODETECT|” 10:12) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=58.12.2|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=58.12.2|AUTODETECT|” 12:2) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=60.1.21|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=60.1.21|AUTODETECT|” I Peter 1:21) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=60.3.22|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=60.3.22|AUTODETECT|” 3:22) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=66.5.12|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=66.5.12|AUTODETECT|” Rev. 5:12) 1 1 -1 9 0 0 , symbolizing the honor, power, and authority given to him as a reward for his fully accomplished mediatorial work, strengthens this conclusion even more.) 1 1 0 8 0 “tw://bible.?id=23.53.12|AUTODETECT|” The climax of assurance is reached in the clause, who is also interceding for us ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=23.53.12|AUTODETECT|” Isa. 53:12) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=42.23.34|AUTODETECT|” ; ��256�� ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=42.23.34|AUTODETECT|” Luke 23:34) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=43.14.16|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=43.14.16|AUTODETECT|” John 14:16) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=62.2.1|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=62.2.1|AUTODETECT|” I John 2:1) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=58.7.25|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=58.7.25|AUTODETECT|” Heb. 7:25) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=43.17.4|AUTODETECT|” , for how would it even be conceivable that the Father should deny the intercessory prayers of the Son, who so fully, marvelously, and gloriously accomplished the task assigned to him 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=43.17.4|AUTODETECT|” John 17:4) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=43.11.42|AUTODETECT|” )? Did not the Son himself say to the Father, I knew that thou dost always hear me ? 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=43.11.42|AUTODETECT|” John 11:42) 1 1 -1 9 0 0 a).) 1 2 0 8 0 0 35. Who will separate us from the love of Christ? Affliction or distress or persecution or famine or nakedness or peril or sword?) Another rhetorical question, meaning, No one will ever be able to separate us from the love Christ has for us. Not our love for Christ is meant but Christ s love for us, as verse 37 clearly indicates: through him who loved us. ) 1 1 0 8 0 “tw://bible.?id=49.3.19|AUTODETECT|” To give an adequate description or definition of that love of Christ is impossible. Cf. ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=49.3.19|AUTODETECT|” Eph. 3:19) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=43.15.13|AUTODETECT|” . All we can do is stammer. We might say, for example, that it is the outgoing disposition of Christ s compassionate heart which revealed itself in the most marvelous and self-sacrificing action that was ever taken. See ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=43.15.13|AUTODETECT|” John 15:13) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=45.5.8|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=45.5.8|AUTODETECT|” Rom. 5:8) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=62.4.10|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=62.4.10|AUTODETECT|” I John 4:10) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=62.4.8|AUTODETECT|” . God is Love 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=62.4.8|AUTODETECT|” I John 4:8) 1 1 -1 9 0 0 ), and since Christ is God, Christ too is Love.) 1 4 0 8 0 0 Charles Wesley, in his hymn Love Divine, probably came about as close to describing Christ s love as anyone can get apart from quoting the words of Scripture:) Jesus, thou art all compassion,) Pure, unbounded love thou art.) Paul enumerates seven circumstances that might be brought up for consideration in answering the question whether anything can separate us from Christ s love:) 1 1 0 8 0 “tw://bible.?id=45.8.35|AUTODETECT|” a. b. affliction, distress. Not only is affliction a good translation of the first of the seven Greek words but it is even etymologically related to it. While this word occurs more than forty times in the New Testament, the apostle uses it only four times 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=45.8.35|AUTODETECT|” Rom. 8:35) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=45.2.9|AUTODETECT|” , also in ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=45.2.9|AUTODETECT|” Rom. 2:9) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=47.6.4|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=47.6.4|AUTODETECT|” II Cor. 6:4) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=47.12.10|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=47.12.10|AUTODETECT|” 12:10) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=45.8.35|AUTODETECT|” ). In the first three instances both words affliction and distress occur. The fact that Paul uses both words indicates that in his mind there was a distinction between them. The suggestion of several commentators that the two words used in the original��257�� refer respectively to outward affliction and inward distress is probably correct. In the New Testament Paul is the only writer who uses the word distress, and even in his epistles it is found only four times 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=45.8.35|AUTODETECT|” Rom. 8:35) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=47.6.4|AUTODETECT|” also in 2:9; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=47.6.4|AUTODETECT|” II Cor. 6:4) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=47.12.10|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=47.12.10|AUTODETECT|” 12:10) 1 1 -1 9 0 0 ).) 1 1 0 8 0 “tw://bible.?id=40.13.21|AUTODETECT|” c. persecution. In the New Testament this word occurs for the first time in ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=40.13.21|AUTODETECT|” Matt. 13:21) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=47.12.10|AUTODETECT|” , When affliction or persecution arises on account of the message he immediately falls away. Paul uses the word persecution five times 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=47.12.10|AUTODETECT|” II Cor. 12:10) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=53.1.4|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=53.1.4|AUTODETECT|” II Thess. 1:4) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=55.3.11|AUTODETECT|” ; twice in ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=55.3.11|AUTODETECT|” II Tim. 3:11) 1 1 -1 9 0 0 ).) 1 1 0 8 0 “tw://bible.?id=40.24.7|AUTODETECT|” d. famine. The word used in the original means hunger, famine. Its first occurrence is in ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=40.24.7|AUTODETECT|” Matt. 24:7) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=42.15.14|AUTODETECT|” , There shall be famines and earthquakes in various places. See also ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=42.15.14|AUTODETECT|” Luke 15:14) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=47.11.27|AUTODETECT|” , When he had spent everything a severe famine arose.& Though the word is used a dozen times in the New Testament, Paul has it only here and in ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=47.11.27|AUTODETECT|” II Cor. 11:27) 1 1 -1 9 0 0 (hunger).) 1 1 0 8 0 “tw://bible.?id=47.11.27|AUTODETECT|” e. nakedness. In the New Testament this noun is found only three times: here, in ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=47.11.27|AUTODETECT|” II Cor. 11:27) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=66.3.18|AUTODETECT|” ; and in ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=66.3.18|AUTODETECT|” Rev. 3:18) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=40.25.36|AUTODETECT|” , but the related adjective (naked) occurs several times; for example, in ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=40.25.36|AUTODETECT|” Matt. 25:36) 1 1 -1 9 0 0 ; I was naked, and you clothed me. Often the meaning is somewhat more general than naked might suggest; hence, in need of clothes is at times a better rendering.) 1 1 0 8 0 “tw://bible.?id=47.11.26|AUTODETECT|” f. peril. This noun occurs here and eight times (!) in ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=47.11.26|AUTODETECT|” II Cor. 11:26) 1 1 -1 9 0 0 .) 1 1 0 8 0 “tw://bible.?id=40.10.34|AUTODETECT|” g. sword, a word of frequent occurrence in the New Testament, begining with ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=40.10.34|AUTODETECT|” Matt. 10:34) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=45.13.4|AUTODETECT|” , I did not come to bring peace but a sword. Paul uses it only here and in ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=45.13.4|AUTODETECT|” Rom. 13:4) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=49.6.17|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=49.6.17|AUTODETECT|” Eph. 6:17) 1 1 -1 9 0 0 .) 1 1 0 8 0 “tw://bible.?id=47.11.23-47.11.29|AUTODETECT|” We should not forget that when Paul spoke about these adverse circumstances which Satan and the other enemies of the cross used in order to bring about separation between believers and their Lord, he was not speaking as an armchair theologian or philosopher. On the contrary, as ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=47.11.23-47.11.29|AUTODETECT|” II Cor. 11:23 29) 1 1 -1 9 0 0 indicates, he had already suffered the first six of these seven hardships before writing this epistle to the Romans. Moreover, by means of the seventh, i.e., the sword, he was going to be put to death. The apostle was speaking not only by inspiration but also from experience, therefore, when he stated that none of these things can bring about separation between believers and their Lord. He knew what he was saying!) 1 1 0 8 0 “tw://bible.?id=50.1.29|AUTODETECT|” Moreover, by implying, Nothing will separate us from Christ s love was he not also saying, On the contrary, suffering for Christ s sake will bring us closer to him and to his love ? Cf. ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=50.1.29|AUTODETECT|” Phil. 1:29) 1 1 -1 9 0 0 , For to you it has been granted in behalf of Christ not only to believe in him but also to suffer in his behalf. On the theme Suffering for Christ a Blessing see N.T.C. on Philippians, pp. 90, 91.) 1 3 0 8 0 0 36. As it is written:) For thy sake we are being put to death all the day long;) We are considered as sheep to be slaughtered. ) 1 1 0 8 0 “tw://bible.?id=19.44.22|AUTODETECT|” By quoting ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=19.44.22|AUTODETECT|” Ps. 44:22) 1 1 -1 9 0 0 (Heb. 44:23; LXX 43:23) Paul shows that there is nothing strange or unexpected about present-day suffering for the Lord s sake. The Psalmist trusted in God. Otherwise how could he have exclaimed, Thou art my King, O God. And how could he have said, In God do we boast all the day long ?) 1 3 0 8 0 0 Yet, he did not derive the comfort from this suffering that Paul derived from his painful experiences. Otherwise he would not have said, Awake, O Lord! Why sleepest thou? Rouse thyself! Do not reject us forever. ) The apostle, on the other hand, understood that suffering for the sake of Christ meant entering into closer communion with him. Such suffering was gain, not loss.) Where did Paul learn this lesson? Is it possible that he had learned it not only from experience and by direct inspiration but also from tradition, early believers having transmitted to him the words of Jesus? It was Jesus who had said:) 1 1 0 8 0 “tw://bible.?id=40.5.10-40.5.12|AUTODETECT|” Blessed those persecuted for righteousness sake, for theirs is the kingdom of heaven. Blessed are you whenever people heap insults upon you and persecute you, and, while telling falsehoods, say all kinds of evil against you for my sake. Rejoice, yes, be filled with unrestrained gladness, for your reward is great in heaven, for in the same way did they persecute the prophets who lived before your time 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=40.5.10-40.5.12|AUTODETECT|” Matt. 5:10 12) 1 1 -1 9 0 0 ).) 1 24 0 8 0 0 37 39. No, in all these things we are more than conquerors through him who loved us. For I am convinced that neither death nor life nor angels who principalities nor things present nor things to come nor powers nor height nor depth nor any other created thing will be able to separate us from the love of God which is in Christ Jesus our Lord.) Paul has been speaking about affliction, distress, persecution, famine, nakedness, peril, and sword. For the moment it almost seemed as if he was unable to think of anything but suffering and hardship. Nevertheless, his real intention was the very opposite: he wanted to emphasize that in the midst of all these unpleasant experiences, in fact even by means of them and with their help, we are more than conquerors. Not just: we shall conquer in the end; no, even now we are super-conquerors.

And this not let it be added immediately by reason of our marvelous character and unflinching courage.) Mrs. Merrill E. Gates, 1886, was surely right when she wrote:) Thy love to me, O Christ,) Thy love to me,) Not mine to thee, I plead,) Not mine to thee.) This is my comfort strong,) This is my joyful song,) Thy love to me,) Thy love to me.) Just what does the apostle mean when he calls believers super-conquerors ? Did he mean, We are winning a sweeping, overwhelming victory ? To be sure, that is what he meant. But is that all he wanted to say?

Words, after all, should be interpreted in light of their context. The apostle says, in all these things. The reference is, of course, to the things enumerated in verse 35. Other things and beings will be added in a moment, those mentioned in verses 38, 39: death, life, angels, etc. The structure of the sentence (note the conjunction for) indicates that these too should be added. Finally, note the very close connection between verse 28 and verse 31 f. ( for verse 29; what then verse 31); and also the parallel all things (verse 28) and in all these things (verse 37).��258��) The similarity will become apparent when the two lines are placed under each other:) Verse 28) And we know that to those who love God all things work together for good. ) Verse 37) No, in all these things we are more than conquerors through him who loved us. ) Since our love for God results from his love ) for us, a sequence that never fails, for by nature we do not love God, the two statements resemble each other also in that respect.

They are not the same, but they are certainly similar.) Once this close connection is grasped, we begin to understand that what Paul is saying is that not only do these various hardships and forces which he mentions not hurt us, but they help us: they all work together for good. It is for this reason that he states that in connection with them we are more than conquerors. A conqueror is a person who defeats the enemy. One who is more than a conqueror causes the enemy to become a helper.) If anyone knew the meaning of more than conquerors it must have been Paul. Was it not exactly this apostle who had been more than conquered by God? From a bitter persecutor he had been changed into an enthusiastic supporter!

No wonder he could say, I am convinced. He would be!) A few words should be added with reference to the things and beings enumerated in verses 38, 39. There are four pairs of objects plus two separately mentioned ones.) The Pairs) 1. neither death nor life (can separate us from God s love in Christ Jesus our Lord).) 1 1 0 8 0 “tw://bible.?id=19.6.5|AUTODETECT|” Having just now made mention of death (verse 36), it is not surprising that Paul makes this word the first of the series. The questions of psalmists regarding the possibility of fellowship between God and man even after death see ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=19.6.5|AUTODETECT|” Ps. 6:5) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=19.30.9|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=19.30.9|AUTODETECT|” 30:9) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=19.88.10-19.88.12|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=19.88.10-19.88.12|AUTODETECT|” 88:10 12) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=45.8.38|AUTODETECT|” are answered here 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=45.8.38|AUTODETECT|” Rom. 8:38) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=45.8.39|AUTODETECT|” , ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=45.8.39|AUTODETECT|” 39) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=19.49.5|AUTODETECT|” ) with a definite Yes, a confession already anticipated in the Old Testament 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=19.49.5|AUTODETECT|” Ps. 49:5) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=19.73.24|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=19.73.24|AUTODETECT|” 73:24) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=19.73.25|AUTODETECT|” , ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=19.73.25|AUTODETECT|” 25) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=18.19.26|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=18.19.26|AUTODETECT|” Job 19:26) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=18.19.27|AUTODETECT|” , ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=18.19.27|AUTODETECT|” 27) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=47.5.8|AUTODETECT|” ). The fact that even death would bring about no separation between God and the believer was firmly entrenched in the heart and mind of Paul 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=47.5.8|AUTODETECT|” II Cor. 5:8) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=50.1.21-50.1.23|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=50.1.21-50.1.23|AUTODETECT|” Phil. 1:21 23) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=42.23.43|AUTODETECT|” ). For further confirmation see ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=42.23.43|AUTODETECT|” Luke 23:43) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=43.14.2|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=43.14.2|AUTODETECT|” John 14:2) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=43.17.24|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=43.17.24|AUTODETECT|” 17:24) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=58.12.18-58.12.24|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=58.12.18-58.12.24|AUTODETECT|” Heb. 12:18 24) 1 1 -1 9 0 0 .) 1 1 0 8 0 “tw://bible.?id=42.8.14|AUTODETECT|” As to life, in spite of all its distractions, especially for the unbeliever 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=42.8.14|AUTODETECT|” Luke 8:14) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=19.63.1-19.63.8|AUTODETECT|” ), the believer s life is one in communion with God. That is the teaching of both Testaments 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=19.63.1-19.63.8|AUTODETECT|” 63:1 8) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=19.73.23|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=19.73.23|AUTODETECT|” 73:23) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=19.116.1|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=19.116.1|AUTODETECT|” 116:1) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=19.116.2|AUTODETECT|” , ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=19.116.2|AUTODETECT|” 2) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=45.14.8|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=45.14.8|AUTODETECT|” Rom. 14:8) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=45.14.9|AUTODETECT|” , ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=45.14.9|AUTODETECT|” 9) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=51.3.1-51.3.3|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=51.3.1-51.3.3|AUTODETECT|” Col. 3:1 3) 1 1 -1 9 0 0 ).) 1 1 0 8 0 0 2. nor angels nor principalities.) 1 1 0 8 0 “tw://bible.?id=1.24.7|AUTODETECT|” Angels are mentioned with great frequency in both Testaments 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=1.24.7|AUTODETECT|” Gen. 24:7) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=1.24.40|AUTODETECT|” , ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=1.24.40|AUTODETECT|” 40) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=1.31.11|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=1.31.11|AUTODETECT|” 31:11) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=19.68.17|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=19.68.17|AUTODETECT|” Ps. 68:17) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=40.1.20|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=40.1.20|AUTODETECT|” Matt. 1:20) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=40.1.24|AUTODETECT|” , ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=40.1.24|AUTODETECT|” 24) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=40.2.13|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=40.2.13|AUTODETECT|” 2:13) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=40.2.19|AUTODETECT|” , ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=40.2.19|AUTODETECT|” 19) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=40.28.2|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=40.28.2|AUTODETECT|” 28:2) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=40.28.5|AUTODETECT|” , ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=40.28.5|AUTODETECT|” 5) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=42.1.11|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=42.1.11|AUTODETECT|” Luke 1:11) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=51.2.18|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=51.2.18|AUTODETECT|” Col. 2:18) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=53.1.7|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=53.1.7|AUTODETECT|” II Thess. 1:7) 1 1 -1 9 0 0 ; etc.) For a Chart summarizing Scriptural doctrine regarding the angels see N.T.C. on Matthew, p. 694.) 1 1 0 8 0 “tw://bible.?id=49.3.10|AUTODETECT|” In Jewish literature principalities are angels. In ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=49.3.10|AUTODETECT|” Eph. 3:10) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=46.15.24|AUTODETECT|” the reference may well be to a category of good angels. See N.T.C. on Ephesians, pp. 158, 159. See also ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=46.15.24|AUTODETECT|” I Cor. 15:24) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=49.1.21|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=49.1.21|AUTODETECT|” Eph. 1:21) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=49.6.12|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=49.6.12|AUTODETECT|” 6:12) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=51.1.16|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=51.1.16|AUTODETECT|” Col. 1:16) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=51.2.10|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=51.2.10|AUTODETECT|” 2:10) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=51.2.15|AUTODETECT|” , ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=51.2.15|AUTODETECT|” 15) 1 1 -1 9 0 0 . The Dead Sea Scrolls too contain many references to angels, especially evil angels. Other references are found in the pseudepigraphic Book of Enoch. The names of angels, the various categories into which they were to be classified, the worship due to them, were some of the topics on which especially heretics would concentrate their attention.) 1 1 0 8 0 “tw://bible.?id=45.8.38|AUTODETECT|” What Paul is saying in the present context 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=45.8.38|AUTODETECT|” Rom. 8:38) 1 1 -1 9 0 0 ) is simply this, that even angels, whether good or bad, real or unreal (the latter referring to classes of supermundane spirits that exist only in people s imagination) can do nothing to separate us from the love of God in Christ.) 1 8 0 8 0 0 3. nor things present nor things to come.) This grouping is along a horizontal time line.) Time, whether present or future the present with its problems, the future with its forebodings can do nothing to separate us from the great and deep love with which God in Christ smiles down upon us, and which from moment to moment he bestows on us, forgiving, helping, and encouraging us on our way through life.) 4. nor height nor depth.) This classification is along a vertical line.) Does danger coming from above seen to threaten? Does hell seem to open its jaws? God s child is safe. If time cannot separate him from God s love, neither can space: nor height nor depth.) The Single Items) 1. nor powers.) 1 1 0 8 0 “tw://bible.?id=49.1.21|AUTODETECT|” In the New Testament powers are included in the angel groupings. See ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=49.1.21|AUTODETECT|” Eph. 1:21) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=49.3.10|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=49.3.10|AUTODETECT|” 3:10) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=49.6.12|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=49.6.12|AUTODETECT|” 6:12) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=51.1.16|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=51.1.16|AUTODETECT|” Col. 1:16) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=51.2.15|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=51.2.15|AUTODETECT|” 2:15) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=60.3.22|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=60.3.22|AUTODETECT|” I Peter 3:22) 1 1 -1 9 0 0 ). That is where they belong.��259��) 1 4 0 8 0 0 Just why it was that Paul placed nor powers between nor things present nor things to come and nor height nor depth is unknown.) 2. nor any other created thing.) The apostle adds this comprehensively inclusive item in order to emphasize that nothing whatever will be able to separate believers from the love of God which is in Christ Jesus our Lord. ) And so this lengthy subdivision of Paul s epistle to the Romans, namely chapters 5 8 (see pp. 30, 167) ends as it began: note in both cases (5:1 and 8:39) the reference to our Lord Jesus Christ . Everything mentioned must serve to strengthen the saints experience of the love of God which is in his Son. To God be all the glory!) 7 1 0 8 0 “tw://bible.?id=45.8.0|AUTODETECT|” Romans 8) 1 1 -1 9 0 0 In Poetry) 1 191 0 8 0 0 Verses ) 1 4 ) For those who in Jesus their refuge have found) There s no condemnation. Their blessings abound.) For through what Christ Jesus has done within me) The Spirit from sin and from death set me free. ) ) For that which the law, by our nature laid low,) Could never achieve and much less could bestow,) God wrought, when, in order to save us from sin,) He sent his own Son our salvation to win. ) ) God did this in order that Law s just demand) In us might be met, and we righteous might stand,) And show by our conduct from day unto day,) That, shunning the flesh, we his Spirit obey. ) 5 8 ) For those who have chosen the flesh as their Guide,) In things of the flesh, not the Spirit, take pride.) But those who have chosen the Spirit as Guide) In things of the Spirit, not flesh, do take pride. ) ) Now those who take pride in the flesh sure should know) That flesh and its fruit, death, together will go.) So, too, those who honor the Spirit will see) That life and deep peace their requital will be. ) ) For fav ring the flesh will mean hating the Lord,) Since keeping God s statutes it cannot afford.) And it should be obvious to those in the flesh) That pleasing both God and one s sin do not mesh. ) 9 11 ) But not in the flesh, my dear brothers, are you.) The Spirit who s in you proves this to be true.) If one lacks the Spirit, it sure would be wrong) To say that this man could to Jesus belong. ) ) But if Christ is in you, then though, due to sin,) The body may die, yet the Spirit within) Is life and brings life, so that you before God) Stand sinless and pure through the ransom Christ brought. ) ) And if you re indwelt by the Spirit of God) Who raised Christ from death, then that Father who brought) To life the dead Jesus will also restore) Your bodies from death. They ll be living once more. ) 12 16 ) Therefore, my dear brothers, our duty is clear:) To live by the standard of flesh while you re here) Will lead but to death. It s your duty to give) The deathblow to sin s shameful ways. Then you ll live. ) ) It is by the strength of the Spirit alone) That this is successful and this can be done.) For all God s true children, with him as their Head,) Are by the blest Spirit of God being led. ) ) You re children indeed, for you ve not received) The spirit of slavery when you believed.) No longer does sickening dread you oppress,) With joy you your God as your Father address. ) ) The Spirit bears witness, and not from afar,) But from close within us, that children we are,) Confirming the voice of our own heart and mind,) And leaving uncertainty far, far behind. ) 17, 18 ) And if we are children, then, too, we are heirs) Of God and with Christ, for the person who shares) With Christ in his sufferings must certainly know) That on him indeed God will glory bestow. ) ) For this I consider; of this I am sure!) That sufferings and hardships which now we endure) Are nothing compared with the glory which then) Will shine from within us, ne er leave us again. ) 19 22 ) And this is established that Nature entire) For the revelation of saints does aspire,) For not by its own choice did Nature grow dim.) tWas man who transgressed, and the Lord punished him ) ) By rendering Nature unable to cope) With enemies many; yet not without hope) That Nature itself, though now bound to despair) One day will the freedom of God s children share. ) ) ) 23 25 ) Now all of creation, all Nature, tis known;) In anguish of childbirth does suffer and groan.) Not only is this true but we must confess:) We also do groan, who the Spirit possess. ) ) Yes, we also groan, even though we are free,) Enriched by the Spirit, as firm guarantee) That also our bodies the Lord will display) As dear to himself on that glorious day. ) ) In hope we were saved, for its object, though near) Is hidden from view and does not yet appear.) But when we no longer of it are deprived,) It stops to be object of hope; t has arrived! ) ) But since for the present we hope for still more,) For fulness of bliss which for us is in store,) We long for these blessings, so rich and so great,) And therefore with patient endurance we wait. ) 26, 27 ) The Spirit, too, knows that we sinners are weak,) And often unable to find what we seek,) Not knowing at certain times just how to pray:) The words will not come; we don t know what to say. ) ) The Spirit then helps us, for he knows our need.) With unspoken groanings he does intercede.) The Searcher of hearts knows the Spirit s intent;) He ll ever agree, and the Spirit s plea grant. ) 28 30 ) Therefore we conclude that to those who love God) All things, in a sense not restricted but broad,) Co-operate fully, in line with God s plan) Established and ordered before time began. ) ) In line with this program or purpose of old) The lovers of God were effectively called.) For whom he foreknew he did also elect) The image of Jesus, his Son, to reflect. ) ) In this way it was that God did foreordain) That Christ should become and forever remain) Close linked to his people, firstborn among all,) Yet humble, and willing them brothers to call. ) ) Resulting is therefore salvation s firm chain:) Those whom God foreknew he did, too, foreordain) And those foreordained he did afterward call,) And justify later and glorify all. ) 31 34 ) How then shall we answer? How shall we reply?) If he who is for us is God from on high?) Who, now, of all creatures against us can be) When he who is for us is certainly he? ) ) His love is so matchless, so tender his care) That even his own Son he never did spare.) For us, wretched sinners, he gave him to die.) How will he not with him our own needs supply? ) ) Who dares to bring charges against God s elect?) Whom God declares pure, and will ever protect?) Who s really so bold that he dares to condemn) The children of God when he justifies them? ) ) It s Jesus who died, and what s more, who was raised) From death to God s right hand. Let heaven be praised!) Christ Jesus this place of trust occupies thus.) It s he who is now interceding for us. ) 35, 36 ) Who then can he be who will tear us apart) From Christ and his love, which was ours from the start?) Distress, persecution, pain due to the Word?) Or famine or nakedness, peril or sword? ) ) It is as the Psalmist declared long ago:) Each day we face death and are being brought low.) As sheep that are led to the slaughter are we,) For doing thy will and for honoring thee. ) 37 39 ) And yet it s a fact that by these very things) Which might seem to harm us God victory brings) To us whom he loves, so that conquerors we,) No, rather far better than this, we should be. ) ) For this I know well, and on this I can count) That nothing at all can forever be found) That causes the Savior his own to forsake,) Twixt him and his dear ones division can make. ) ) Not death and not life and not angels above) Can ever exclude us from God s lasting love.) Nor present nor future can ever avail) To cause that great love for his dear ones to fail. ) ) Not demons or powers, not depth and not height) Can weaken its glow or diminish its might) No creature can part us, whatever the sort,) From God s love that is in Christ Jesus our Lord. ) ) ) ) 1 1 0 8 0 “tw://bible.?id=45.8.0|AUTODETECT|” Practical Lessons Derived from ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=45.8.0|AUTODETECT|” Romans 8) 1 1 0 8 0 “tw://bible.?id=45.8.0|AUTODETECT|” A most comforting chapter is ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.*?id=45.8.0|AUTODETECT|” Romans 8) 1 1 -1 9 0 0 . It answers some of the most soul-stirring questions often asked by believers and/or by serious enquirers.) 1 5 0 8 0 0

1. It is a fact of common knowledge that during the last few decades the science and art of healing has made great progress. Smallpox has been wiped out, if the reports are true. Antibiotics have saved many lives which, humanly speaking, otherwise would have been lost. Cancer research is having many favorable results, and so one could continue. Is there, however, also a remedy for those who are standing at death s portal; worried, perhaps, about entrance into the halls of glory?

For God s children there is this comforting answer:) Verse 1 There is therefore now no condemnation for those who are in Christ Jesus. Add also verses 33, 34 and 38, 39.) 2. How can I know whether I am a Christian? Answer:) Verse 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. In other words, What is your my one absorbing interest? Is it the world or is it God s kingdom?

If the latter, then I am indeed a child of God.) 3. I know that I love God. But how do I know that he loves me? Answer:) 1 1 0 8 0 “tw://bible.?id=62.4.19|AUTODETECT|” Verse 28 And we know that to those who love God all things work together for good; that is, to those who are called according to his purpose. Cf. ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=62.4.19|AUTODETECT|” I John 4:19) 1 1 -1 9 0 0 , We love God because he first loved us. ) 1 6 0 8 0 0 4. I know that God loves me, but will he continue to do so? Answer:) Verses 38, 39 I am convinced that neither death nor life nor angels nor principalities nor things present nor things to come & nor any other created thing will be able to separate us from the love of God which is in Christ Jesus our Lord. ) 5. How do we know that prayer is effective? Answer:) Verses 26, 27 And in the same way the Spirit too is helping us in our weakness, for we do not know what we ought to pray, but the Spirit himself intercedes for us with unspoken groanings. And he who searches the hearts knows what is the Spirit s intention, that he is interceding for the saints in harmony with God s will. ) 6.

How rich are we going to be in the life hereafter? Answer:) Verses 17, 18 And if children, then heirs, heirs of God and fellow-heirs with Christ; since the fact that we are now sharing in his sufferings means that (hereafter) we shall share in his glory. For I consider that the sufferings of this present time are not worthy to be compared with the glory that is to be revealed in us. ) 1 1 0 8 0 “tw://bible.?id=45.8.0|AUTODETECT|” 7. What, according to ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=45.8.0|AUTODETECT|” Romans 8) 1 1 -1 9 0 0 , etc., is the Christian s chief duty? Answer:) 1 1 0 8 0 0 To conduct oneself according to the Spirit s direction.) 1 1 0 8 0 “tw://bible.?id=48.5.22|AUTODETECT|” Verse 14 For as many as are being led by the Spirit of God, these are sons of God. They walk (verse 4) not according to the flesh but according to the Spirit. They exhibit in their lives the fruits of the Spirit, for which see ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=48.5.22|AUTODETECT|” Gal. 5:22) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=48.5.23|AUTODETECT|” , ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=48.5.23|AUTODETECT|” 23) 1 1 -1 9 0 0 .) 1 31 0 8 0 0 8. Has the Christian the right to be an optimist? Answer:) The Christian alone, of all people, has that right. See verses 15 18, beginning with, For you have not received a spirit of slavery, to fill you once more with dread, but you have received the spirit of adoption & Also verses 35 39, beginning with Who will separate us from the love of Christ? ) Summary of Chapter 8) A. For God s children all things work together for good (verses 1 30) In close connection with the immediately preceding paragraph note Thanks be to God through Jesus Christ our Lord (7:25) , as well as with the entire preceding contents of this epistle, this chapter opens with the triumphant exclamation, There is therefore now no condemnation for those who are in Christ Jesus. Christ s substitutionary atonement has removed the guilt of their sins.

As to sin s polluting power, the effective operation of the Holy Spirit, who dwells within their hearts and is the controlling influence in their lives, has set them free from the law of sin and death. ) God did for them what the law, operating by itself, could never have accomplished. Because of sin the law was unable to save. But God, by means of his Son s vicarious death, brought about salvation. He did this without in any way sacrificing the demand of divine righteousness according to which sin must not be allowed to go unpunished. Only those people whose aim is to live in accordance with the demands of the Spirit can derive comfort from this great truth. On the other hand, those who are in the flesh, that is, who allow their lives to be basically governed by their sinful human nature, do not have this comfort.

They cannot please God (verses 1 8).) Directly addressing his Roman audience, Paul continues, You, by contrast, are not basically under the control of sinful human nature; on the contrary, you are being governed by the Spirit, implying, Therefore you are, indeed, able to please God, and you do, in fact, please him. (Of course, not necessarily every one of you: if any individual reveals by his words, actions, and attitudes that he does not wish to be controlled by the Spirit, that person does not belong to Christ). ) It should be our aim, therefore, to live in harmony with the Spirit s direction for our lives. Those who do so will truly live. Those who do not are doomed to die. All those, and only those, whose lives prove that they are being led by the Spirit are truly sons of God.) Those people are not slaves but children. The Spirit adds his own testimony to the voice of their regenerated consciousness, thus providing them with a double assurance that they are God s children. And if they are children, they are also heirs.

Their Testator is God. It is he who will bestow on them a glorious inheritance, an inheritance which they will share with Christ, who, being God s Son by nature, is Chief Heir. They are co-heirs, that is, heirs along with him. Those who here and now share Christ s suffering will afterward share his glory (verses 9 18).) To the day of this future glory for God s children the entire sub-human creation is eagerly looking forward. As the groaning of a woman who is in labor indicates both pain and hope, so does also Nature s groaning. The entire sub-human creation is, as it were, craning its neck in order to behold the revelation of the sons of God, because that event will also mean glory for the entire creation.) But this is not the only groaning that is taking place.

Not only this, but we ourselves, who possess the firstfruits of the Spirit, even we ourselves groan within ourselves, as we eagerly await our adoption, that is, the redemption of our bodies. ) Not only does Nature groan and do we groan, but the Spirit too is helping us in our weakness, for we do not know what we ought to pray, but the Spirit himself intercedes for us with unspoken groanings. ) Such groaning is not ineffective. God discerns and grants the ardent desire of the Spirit, so that full salvation for both soul and body will come to us (verses 19 27).) This is true not because of the saints love for God, but because of his love for them, as is shown by the words, & to those who love God all things work together for good; that is, to those who are called according to his purpose. ) Moreover, this cooperation of all things for good is happening not only now but has always been the case For whom he foreknew, he also foreordained to be conformed to the image of his Son, so that he might be the firstborn among many brothers; and whom he foreordained, these he also called; and whom he called, these he also justified and will continue thus: and whom he justified, these he also glorified, that is, these he will most certainly also glorify. So certain is this fact that the past tense is used, as if it had already happened! (verses 28 30). ) b. Therefore More Than Conquerors Are They (verses 31 39) If God is for us, who is against us? ) It is God who gives. In fact, he did not spare even his own Son, but gave him up for us all. How will he not also with him graciously give us all things? ) It is God who forgives.

He blots out our sins so completely that no sustainable charge can be brought against God s elect. It is God who justifies. Who is he that condemns? The assurance that our sins have been blotted out is, however, not based solely on the fact that Christ died for us, but also on the fact that in addition the Father raised him from the dead, thereby proving that this death had been accepted as a fully adequate atonement for our sins. To make assurance even more sure we are comforted by the Savior s session at God s right hand. Here he is interceding for us, without ceasing taking care that the merits of his sacrifice are fully applied to us (verses 31 34).) It is clear therefore that Christ loves us with a love from which no one and nothing can ever separate us.

And for this very reason we are more than conquerors. Not merely conquerors, so that the forces that oppose us are neutralized, rendered ineffective, but more than conquerors, so that death, life, angels, principalities, things present, things to come, heights and depths, yes every created thing that has anything to do with us, works in our favor, for in all of them, and in the manner in which they affect us, there is revealed to us the love of God which is in Christ, a love from which no one and nothing will ever be able to separate us (verses 35 39).) ) ) ) ) 206 Or you.) 207 The continuation (as a whole or in part): who walk not after the flesh but after the Spirit lacks sufficient textual support, and is probably an interpolation from verse 4.) N.T.C. W. Hendriksen, New Testament Commentary) 208 ) Technical questions that should be touched upon are the following:) a. What does through Christ Jesus modify: the law of the Spirit of life ? Or has set me free ?

The contents of verses 3 and 4, showing that it was through the sending of God s Son that the law was fulfilled (so that sinners might be set free) favors the latter construction.) b. Does of life modify the law or does it go with the Spirit ? I see no reason to depart from the rule that, unless there is cause to do otherwise, a modifier should be construed with the noun that is nearest to it. Besides, in ever so many passages Scripture associates the Holy Spirit with impartation of life.) c. Should we read has set me free or has set you free: �� or ��? Textual evidence, though somewhat favoring �� (� B G), is not entirely conclusive.

Since from 7:7 on the apostle has so very frequently been referring to himself, �� seems more natural. On other hand, a change of style from the more strictly personal to the far more general has already occurred (see 8:1). This may account for the fact that even the reading !��� (us) has some support. The matter is not very important. We may rest assured that through Christ Jesus the law of the Spirit of life has set free all who place their trust in the Savior: you, me, us.) 209 For more on this subject of divine emotion see pp. 251, 276, 277, 287.) 1 1 0 8 0 “tw://bible.?id=3.9.2|AUTODETECT|” 210 Though it must be granted that ���v ������� can mean For a sin-offering 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=3.9.2|AUTODETECT|” Lev. 9:2) 1 1 -1 9 0 0 ), that sense would seem to be somewhat foreign to the present context.) 1 2 0 8 0 0 211 ) Though the basic notion of justice or rightness is never absent, the various shades of meaning the word �������� has in the New Testament can be summarized as follows:) 1 1 0 8 0 “tw://bible.?id=42.1.6|AUTODETECT|” a. righteous demand, requirement 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=42.1.6|AUTODETECT|” Luke 1:6) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=45.2.26|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=45.2.26|AUTODETECT|” Rom. 2:26) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=45.8.4|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=45.8.4|AUTODETECT|” 8:4) 1 1 -1 9 0 0 )) 1 1 0 8 0 “tw://bible.?id=45.5.18|AUTODETECT|” b. righteous deed or Acts 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=45.5.18|AUTODETECT|” Rom. 5:18) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=66.15.4|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=66.15.4|AUTODETECT|” Rev. 15:4) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=66.19.8|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=66.19.8|AUTODETECT|” 19:8) 1 1 -1 9 0 0 )) 1 1 0 8 0 “tw://bible.?id=45.1.32|AUTODETECT|” c. judicial ordinance, decree, sentence 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=45.1.32|AUTODETECT|” Rom. 1:32) 1 1 -1 9 0 0 )) 1 1 0 8 0 “tw://bible.?id=45.5.16|AUTODETECT|” d. justifying sentence, justification 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=45.5.16|AUTODETECT|” Rom. 5:16) 1 1 -1 9 0 0 )) 1 1 0 8 0 “tw://bible.?id=58.9.1|AUTODETECT|” e. regulation 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=58.9.1|AUTODETECT|” Heb. 9:1) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=58.9.10|AUTODETECT|” , ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=58.9.10|AUTODETECT|” 10) 1 1 -1 9 0 0 ).) 1 1 0 8 0 “tw://bible.?id=46.11.32|AUTODETECT|” 212 Here the verb ��������� clearly has the double meaning: to condemn and to punish; to sentence and to carry out that sentence. So also in ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=46.11.32|AUTODETECT|” I Cor. 11:32) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=61.2.6|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=61.2.6|AUTODETECT|” II Peter 2:6) 1 1 -1 9 0 0 .) 1 1 0 8 0 0 213 ���������, 3rd per. pl. indicat. of ������, to be minded; cf. ����, mind. To the Greeks �p ������� ������� meant: to join the party of the Romans, to be on their side.) 1 1 0 8 0 “tw://bible.?id=45.3.30|AUTODETECT|” 214 Besides, the word �4��� (=Latin si quidem) refers to a fulfilled condition. It can be rendered seeing that, or since, or since indeed, or if & as is certainly true. See the use of the same word in ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=45.3.30|AUTODETECT|” Rom. 3:30) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=45.8.17|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=45.8.17|AUTODETECT|” 8:17) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=46.15.15|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=46.15.15|AUTODETECT|” I Cor. 15:15) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=53.1.6|AUTODETECT|” ; and see N.T.C. on ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=53.1.6|AUTODETECT|” II Thess. 1:6) 1 1 -1 9 0 0 , p. 157.) 1 1 0 8 0 0 215 Note ������� ����������. The periphrastic future stresses the inevitability of their doom.) 1 1 0 8 0 “tw://bible.?id=42.23.51|AUTODETECT|” 216 �������, acc. pl. of ������, here used in an unfavorable sense 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=42.23.51|AUTODETECT|” Luke 23:51) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=44.19.18|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=44.19.18|AUTODETECT|” Acts 19:18) 1 1 -1 9 0 0 ), as is often the case with respect to the cognate verb ������, see p. 232 on 7:15.) 1 2 0 8 0 0 217 An excellent chapter on The Holy Spirit and Guidance, written in a very interesting style, is found in E. H. Palmer s book The Holy Spirit, Grand Rapids, 1958, pp. 101 117.) 218 ������, third per. pres. (continuative) indicat. of ��, here, as often, to lead.) 1 1 0 8 0 “tw://bible.?id=45.8.14|AUTODETECT|” 219 By all means ask God to give you traveling mercy and guidance. But that is not the theme here in ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=45.8.14|AUTODETECT|” Rom. 8:14) 1 1 -1 9 0 0 . However, see on 15:30 33.) 1 1 0 8 0 0 220 op. cit., p. 555.) 1 1 0 8 0 “tw://bible.?id=45.8.15|AUTODETECT|” 221 Here 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=45.8.15|AUTODETECT|” Rom. 8:15) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=41.14.36|AUTODETECT|” ; cf. ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=41.14.36|AUTODETECT|” Mark 14:36) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=43.20.28|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=43.20.28|AUTODETECT|” John 20:28) 1 1 -1 9 0 0 ) the articular nominat. form indicates the vocative. See Gram. N.T., p. 261.) 1 1 0 8 0 0 222 �����������, third per. s. pres. indicat. of �����������.) 1 1 0 8 0 “tw://bible.?id=19.73.25|AUTODETECT|” 223 Confusion arises when, since God is, in a sense, the believers possession 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=19.73.25|AUTODETECT|” Ps. 73:25) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=19.73.26|AUTODETECT|” , ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=19.73.26|AUTODETECT|” 26) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=25.3.24|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=25.3.24|AUTODETECT|” Lam. 3:24) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=45.8.17|AUTODETECT|” ), the idea that the apostle is viewing God as the believers inheritance is injected into the interpretation of ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=45.8.17|AUTODETECT|” Rom. 8:17) 1 1 -1 9 0 0 . As I indicate, the context points in a different direction. The inheritance here described pertains not to something or Someone we possess even now, but distinctly to the future.) 1 1 0 8 0 0 224 Note here again �4���, as in verse 9. See footnote 214 on p. 252.) 1 1 0 8 0 “tw://bible.?id=46.13.5|AUTODETECT|” 225 The verb is ���������, cf. ����� in the sense of account; hence, to take into account 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=46.13.5|AUTODETECT|” I Cor. 13:5) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=45.4.3|AUTODETECT|” ); and so: to reckon, consider, regard, etc. Sometimes even: to impute a quality to a person which in and by himself he does not possess; see above, p. 147, on ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=45.4.3|AUTODETECT|” Rom. 4:3) 1 1 -1 9 0 0 .) 1 1 0 8 0 “tw://bible.?id=41.10.30|AUTODETECT|” 226 ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=41.10.30|AUTODETECT|” Mark 10:30) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=40.12.32|AUTODETECT|” makes clear that the terms time (������) and age (�0��) are synonyms: the now or present time = the now or present age; and the coming time = the coming age. One might call these expressions technical terms. See also ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=40.12.32|AUTODETECT|” Matt. 12:32) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=42.16.8|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=42.16.8|AUTODETECT|” Luke 16:8) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=42.20.34|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=42.20.34|AUTODETECT|” 20:34) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=42.20.35|AUTODETECT|” , ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=42.20.35|AUTODETECT|” 35) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=45.12.2|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=45.12.2|AUTODETECT|” Rom. 12:2) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=48.1.4|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=48.1.4|AUTODETECT|” Gal. 1:4) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=49.1.21|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=49.1.21|AUTODETECT|” Eph. 1:21) 1 1 -1 9 0 0 .) 1 6 0 8 0 0 227 Note ����������� = ��, away from ����, head; �����, cf. �����, meaning (in Ionian) to watch.) 228 That in all such cases the word �1��, son, has nothing to do with sex (male or female), and amounts to ������, child, is clear from a comparison of passages: those who, in one passage, are called sons are, in another passage, called children. Cf. our present passage with verse 16. If there is any shade of difference at all in such cases, it would be that sons emphasizes legal standing; children, (spiritual) offspring.) A.V. Authorized Version (King James)) 229 Is the true text E�� (A B C etc.) or ����� (D* F G)? If the latter, the meaning is probably because, though even ����� can mean that. If the true reading is E��, the choice between because and that is about even.

In the present case making the right decision is not important since either reading introduces a clause that is true to fact and harmonizes with the context.) 230 The two third per. s. pres. indicatives he uses are ���������� and ���������. They rhyme, as do groaning and moaning. Meaning: is groaning and travailing ; but the two form a unit: hence, has been, and still is (note ��� ��� ���) groaning as in the pain of childbirth. ) 231 This surprise element is lost in the rendering, favored by some, which, rather arbitrarily, it would seem to me, abbreviates the original into the mere Not only so, but we ourselves. ) 1 1 0 8 0 “tw://bible.?id=45.8.23|AUTODETECT|” 232 In addition to the firstfruits of the Spirit 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=45.8.23|AUTODETECT|” Rom. 8:23) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=45.11.16|AUTODETECT|” ) the New Testament mentions: the firstfruits of dough 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=45.11.16|AUTODETECT|” Rom. 11:16) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=45.16.5|AUTODETECT|” ); firstfruits = first convert 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=45.16.5|AUTODETECT|” Rom. 16:5) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=46.16.15|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=46.16.15|AUTODETECT|” I Cor. 16:15) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=46.15.20|AUTODETECT|” ); Christ as firstfruits of those who fell asleep 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=46.15.20|AUTODETECT|” I Cor. 15:20) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=46.15.23|AUTODETECT|” , ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=46.15.23|AUTODETECT|” 23) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=59.1.18|AUTODETECT|” ); firstfruits of creatures 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=59.1.18|AUTODETECT|” James 1:18) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=66.14.4|AUTODETECT|” ); and the 144,000, offered as firstfruits to God 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=66.14.4|AUTODETECT|” Rev. 14:4) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=53.2.13|AUTODETECT|” ). See also N.T.C. on I and II Thessalonians, pp. 187, 188, on ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=53.2.13|AUTODETECT|” II Thess. 2:13) 1 1 -1 9 0 0 .) 1 5 0 8 0 0 L.N.T. (A. and G.) W. F. Arndt and F. W. Gingrich, A Greek-English Lexicon of the New Testament and Other Early Christian Literature) 233 So also Ridderbos, op. cit., p. 188; and J. Behm (on ������, Th.D.N.T., Vol.

I, p. 475).) 234 The reading of P46B* is followed here, being the shorter.) 235 ��� Q������� (gen. of attendant circumstance). For the noun see also 2:7; 5:3, 4; 15:4, 5; cf. footnote 142 on p. 170. In view of the context (see especially verse 23), patient endurance is probably the best translation. The apostle was thinking of the power to bear up persistently under stress. This patient endurance is accompanied by ardent longing; for note also �����������, first per. pl. pres. indicat. of ����������, which, by means of its double prefix, emphasizes the ardent character of the believers waiting. This recalls to our minds a form of the same verb in verse 19, but there with the addition of with outstretched head. ) 236 ) 1 1 0 8 0 “tw://bible.?id=40.20.5|AUTODETECT|” The following Greek words are in need of some comment: a������, in the same way; similarly 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=40.20.5|AUTODETECT|” Matt. 20:5) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=40.21.30|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=40.21.30|AUTODETECT|” 21:30) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=40.21.36|AUTODETECT|” , ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=40.21.36|AUTODETECT|” 36) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=40.25.17|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=40.25.17|AUTODETECT|” 25:17) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=41.12.21|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=41.12.21|AUTODETECT|” Mark 12:21) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=41.14.31|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=41.14.31|AUTODETECT|” 14:31) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=42.13.5|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=42.13.5|AUTODETECT|” Luke 13:5) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=42.20.31|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=42.20.31|AUTODETECT|” 20:31) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=42.22.20|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=42.22.20|AUTODETECT|” 22:20) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=46.11.25|AUTODETECT|” ). Paul uses it also in ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=46.11.25|AUTODETECT|” I Cor. 11:25) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=54.2.9|AUTODETECT|” , and 6 times in the Pastorals, beginning with ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=54.2.9|AUTODETECT|” I Tim. 2:9) 1 1 0 8 0 “tw://bible.?id=42.10.40|AUTODETECT|” �����������������, third per. s. pres. middle indicat. of �����������������, to take hold of along with someone, to help. See N.T.C. on ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=42.10.40|AUTODETECT|” Luke 10:40) 1 1 -1 9 0 0 , p. 603.) 1 9 0 8 0 0 ������������, first per. pl. aor. middle deliberative subjunctive (after an indirect question) of �����������, to pray.) Q�������������, third per. s. pres. indicat. of Q������������ basically: to come upon (or meet) and speak or act in behalf or (Q���); to intercede.) ����������, dat. pl. of ���������, groaning, sighing. Cf. German st�nen; Dutch steunen (also stenen).) ��������, masc. dat. pl. of �������. Some interpret this to mean unutterable, inexpressible, (groans and sighs) too deep for words (Ridderbos, Lenski, etc.); others translate unuttered, unspoken, wordless. We cannot be sure, although verse 27 seems to favor the latter interpretation. The Spirit s groanings do not need to be translated into actual words because the Father is able to discern the Spirit s meaning even though no words were spoken.

But interpreted either way, the main thought of verses 26, 27 remains about the same.) 237 �P�x �x ������.) 238 See, for example, Lenski, op. cit., p. 547.) 239 It must have become clear that my interpretation of verse 26 (and also of verse 27) agrees with that of A. Kuyper, Het Werk van den Heiligen Geest, pp. 787, 788; Engl. tr., p. 636.) 240 For a similar representation see A. Kuyper (for reference see above, footnote 238, p. 276); and R. C. Harder, in De Heilige Geest, edited by J. H.

Bavinck, P. Prins, and G. Brillenburg Wurth, Kampen, 1949, p. 396.) 241 ) 1 1 0 8 0 “tw://bible.*?id=43.5.39|AUTODETECT|”

In verse 27 note ������, pres. participle of ������, to search; in the New Testament occurring only here and in ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.*?id=43.5.39|AUTODETECT|”

John 5:39) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.*?id=43.7.52|AUTODETECT|”

; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.*?id=43.7.52|AUTODETECT|”

7:52) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.*?id=46.2.10|AUTODETECT|”

; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.*?id=46.2.10|AUTODETECT|”

I Cor. 2:10) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.*?id=60.1.11|AUTODETECT|”

; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.*?id=60.1.11|AUTODETECT|”

I Peter 1:11) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.*?id=66.2.23|AUTODETECT|”

; and ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.*?id=66.2.23|AUTODETECT|”

Rev. 2:23) 1 1 -1 9 0 0

I am he who searches hearts and minds. ) 1 15 0 8 0 0 Because of the context E�� in verse 27 should be rendered that, not because. ) 242 P46 A B Origen, by Grk. N.T. (A-B-M-W) included in the apparatus, while the adopted text (without A ����) is given a C rating.) 243 Note the doubling of the word ���� in what Paul then supposedly wrote: ���� ������� �x� ��x� ����� �������� A ���� �0� �����. Is it not reasonable to assume that it was a very early burdened soul who inserted the second ����? Besides, unless there are sound reasons to do otherwise, should not the shorter reading in this case the one without the second ���� prevail? Also causes to work is not a faithful rendering of ��������.) 244 See N.E.B. s translation in its text. To the credit of N.E.B. it should be stated that in a footnote it recognizes what I would call the correct reading and translation, the one that makes all things the subject of the clause.) N.E.B.

New English Bible) 245 For a more complete list of these attempts see the excellent summary and discussion by Cranfield, op. cit., pp. 425 428.) 246 Some prefer co-operate for good ; others prove advantageous for (their true) good. But these variations do not touch the main issue and, I believe, require no further discussion.) A.R.V. American Standard Revised Version) 247 F. F. Bruce, op. cit., p. 176.) 248 H. Bavinck, The Doctrine of God, Grand Rapids, 1951, Vol.

II, p. 343; my published translation of Bavinck s Gereformeerde Dogmatiek; see above, footnote 16.) 249 So also G. Ch. Aalders, Het Boek Genesis (Korte Verklaring), Kampen, 1949, Vol. I, p. 96.) 250 The references are to the Commentaries not to any other works written by these authors.) 251 For the meaning of ���� (glory) see footnote 38 on p. 74.) 252 ������, third per. s. aor. indicat. of ������, to glorify.) 253 Note presence of �� in the clause E� �� ��� 0���� �1�� �P� �������.) 1 1 0 8 0 “tw://bible.?id=40.6.33|AUTODETECT|” 254 F. F. Bruce, op. cit., p. 179, correctly refers to ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=40.6.33|AUTODETECT|” Matt. 6:33) 1 1 -1 9 0 0 . Note context: What are we going to eat, drink, wear? See also Denney, op. cit., p. 653.) 1 1 0 8 0 “tw://bible.?id=45.8.33|AUTODETECT|” 255 When this close relation between ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=45.8.33|AUTODETECT|” Rom. 8:33) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=45.8.34|AUTODETECT|” , ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=45.8.34|AUTODETECT|” 34) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=23.50.8|AUTODETECT|” and ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=23.50.8|AUTODETECT|” Isa. 50:8) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=23.50.9|AUTODETECT|” , ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=23.50.9|AUTODETECT|” 9) 1 1 -1 9 0 0 a is accepted, this will solve the problem of the punctuation of the Pauline passage.) 1 1 0 8 0 “tw://bible.?id=23.53.12|AUTODETECT|” 256 See what was said in footnote 139, p. 162, about ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=23.53.12|AUTODETECT|” Isa. 53:12) 1 1 -1 9 0 0 in Hebrew.) 1 4 0 8 0 0 257 ������ and ���������� (basically narrow place).) 258 In the original: �����. & � ������� �����.) N.T.C. W. Hendriksen, New Testament Commentary) 259 I can see no merit in the suggestion that ��������, as used here might refer to mighty works or miracles. Tbe context (angels & principalities) does not favor this interpretation.)