Romans 5
by Philip Layton
Through Adam we are sinners but through Jesus we are forgiven
Discussion Questions
- Does this concur with your experience (vv 3, 4)
- Paul spoke about Adam as though he was a real, historical person in the same way that Moses was (vv 12-14). How might this be viewed by those who doubt the reality, truth and historical accuracy of the Bible’s account of creation?
Share your thoughts below, or tweet about it with the #boundlessbible hashtag. Don't forget this week's Children's Challenge!
Going Deeper From 'Words of Life'
Paul has declared the need for justification – accomplished through faith in Christ. This brings a newness to life. And because of God’s bountiful love, there are wonderful benefits:
Peace. It’s a peace such as we’ve never experienced before. A deep serenity, an inner calm, a stillness within.
Grace. We enter into the realm of God’s grace through faith in his Son,
Jesus Christ.
Glory. One day we’ll be with him – enjoying everlasting fellowship and communion with God.
Paul then changes his tone. He tells us we’re also to rejoice in our sufferings. Augustine said in his Confessions that it’s one thing to see the land of peace from a wooded ridge; it’s another to tread the road leading to it.
Paul tells us we can have cause for rejoicing, and even more benefits from God, which follow from suffering:
…suffering produces perseverance; perseverance, character; and character, hope (vv 3, 4).
Perseverance. This endurance gives us motivation for moving forward – knowing God’s with us each and every day.
Character. This refinement reflects who we are in Christ – strengthened because of God’s grace and mercy.
Hope. This glimpse of what lies ahead comes from God’s indwelling Spirit – permeating our very being.
All these ‘benefits’ are truly cause for great rejoicing. Are we rejoicing in Christ today – no matter what our circumstance?
Prayer
Lord, we pray for those suffering right now. May our prayers strengthen them, giving them a sense of peace and hope today.
Beverly Ivany
Tags: Romans