THE DETERMINED OBJECTIVE OF SALVATION The first few devotions of this series are devoted to a brief summation of the book of Romans. This is being done in order to provide a context for some extended comments about the determined objective of salvation. A broad understanding of the human condition, and the nature of salvation itself, will serve to enhance the grand objective behind it all. -- Tomorrow:
"And we know that all things work together for good to those who love God, to those who are the called according to His purpose. For whom He foreknew, He also predestined to be conformed to the image of His Son, that He might be the firstborn among many brethren. Moreover whom He predestined, these He also called; whom He called, these He also justified; and whom He justified, these He also glorified. What then shall we say to these things? If God is for us, who can be against us? He who did not spare His own Son, but delivered Him up for us all, how shall He not with Him also freely give us all things? Who shall bring a charge against God's elect? It is God who justifies. Who is he who condemns? It is Christ who died, and furthermore is also risen, who is even at the right hand of God, who also makes intercession for us." (Romans 8:28-34, NKJV)
Devotion 3 of 33
THE EXAMPLE OF ABRAHAM
In Paul's extended statements concerning the centrality of faith, and in order to assist us in laying hold of the function of that faith, Abraham is held before us. God made a promise of blessing to this patriarch. The promise contradicted every form of human reasoning. There is not a law of human logic that could support what Abraham was promised. There was no possible way the promise could be fulfilled through natural means. What is more, it extended to generations after Abraham, and even into eternity.
Substantiating the power of faith, it is affirmed that "Abraham believed God." He did not stagger at the promises of God, but was "strong in faith, giving glory to God." As a result, God accounted, or imputed, Abraham's faith to him as righteousness. That is, he received the righteousness of God because he believed.
The record of Abraham is not for his sake alone. That is, it is not a mere historical account of the staggering accomplishments of a hero. Rather, he is an example of how God gives men His righteousness. His record is provided to assure us God will give us His righteousness if we believe the record He has given of His Son (4:1-25).
THE PRACTICALITY OF FAITH
Faith is effective in the transformation of our lives. First, it brings the peace of God to us, in order that we may throw ourselves into the good fight of faith. Within the framework of that glorious peace, we come to glory in God, finding delight and great joy in His Person. The joy is so remarkable that we even glory in tribulations, aware that they are used by God to prepare us for glory.
Through faith we come into patience, or perseverance. Character is developed, which results in a dominating hope. The hope that is generated within us is so glorious, we are not ashamed of it. The love of God toward us is then shed abroad in our hearts by the Holy Spirit who is given to us. God's purpose is being realized in those who have received His righteousness by faith (5:1-5).
CHRIST'S DEATH IS EFFECTIVE
With great care, the Spirit refuses to allow us to glory in our growth, even though it is remarkable. Instead, He turns our attention to the death of Jesus Christ, which is the foundation for our reception of righteousness. He confirms to our hearts that if such great things were wrought by Christ's death, much more will be accomplished through His life. There is an upward movement that characterizes God's working (5:6-11).
ONLY TWO MEN
The condition of all men is traced to two men Adam and Christ. They are federal heads of their respective generations. Everyone who is under them partakes of their likeness. The attitude of God toward each of them carries forward to all who are under them. The essential nature of every person begotten by a man is traced to one of these two men. One has been written off, and one is accepted. One has fallen, and One has not. One must die, and the Other must live.
What is even more, the effect of each man, Adam and Jesus, is traced to a single deed of each. Adam's act of disobedience, and Christ's act of righteousness. Adam's act was eating from the forbidden tree. Christ's act was laying down His life a ransom for many. The single act of both Adam and Jesus effects everyone who is under them – "ALL." That condition also removes all boasting (5:12-21). Whatever a person thinks of free will, volitional capacities, the right of choice, etc., must take these facts into consideration.
PRAYER POINT: Father, in the name of Jesus, I thank You for revealing the marvelous rationale exhibited in Your own salvation.