While God is always sovereign in the salvation of his people, this fact does not negate our responsibility as Christians to preach the Gospel, with love and without partiality, to all people, whether they're sympathetic to us or not.  We also cannot make the mistake that someone having all of the advantages of growing up around the church and being surrounded by the things God equates to salvation in Christ.  Always preach, never presume, because what's at stake is everything. 

 

Scripture: Isaiah 48:12-19, Romans 9:1-5

The end of Romans 8 gives us the crescendo of assurance through confident assertions grounded in Christ that Paul is impressing upon us.  Though the world, our own flesh, and the devil may be against us, he is always on our side and will see us through.  Our salvation is secure, and this frees us up to love our enemies all the more because we know what and who they need.  

 

Scripture: Psalm 27, Romans 8:31-38

God's work in our salvation is deeply personal.  He knew us and chose us before the foundation of the world, and as the followers of Christ, we are justified in his eyes and will one day be glorified with him.  This gives us great assurance to be courageous, bold, and fearless for Jesus Christ. 

 

Scripture: Isaiah 44:1-8, Romans 8:29-30

The well-known Romans 8:28 encapsulates much about God and His divine sovereignty and providence for all things and applies to every situation.  We can know that no matter the situation, we can be certain that God is using it for our good and his glory.  This applies to both a macro level through God's unfolding plan throughout redemptive history and on a personal level and the difficulties we face.  Though he may test, teach, humble and refine us, he has those who love him in each place for a good reason, and that allows us to be more patient and to trust and depend on him amid our trials.  

 

Scripture: Genesis 45:1-8, 50:15-21, Romans 8:18-28

True believers in Christ can expect hardships to come their way in this life, but none compare to the glory that belongs to us in eternity. Though created beautifully, the things of this world are affected by the fall and will not satisfy because they cannot satisfy. One day, corruption will give way to perfection, futility will be replaced with fruitfulness, and this life's pains will be exchanged with everlasting joy. 

 

Scripture: Psalm 148, Romans 8:18-25