In all these things we are more than conquerors through him that loved us (Rom. 8:37: read vv. 1–33).
In Romans 7 Paul revealed something of the terrific struggle in the soul of one who has allied himself with Christ. Here the Apostle has been giving a personal illustration of his journey through justification and sanctification toward glorification. Now he proclaims his certainty that victory is possible through the power of the Holy Spirit.
I. Victorious Living (1–17). Chapter 8 is different. The struggle has given way to quiet trust. Peace reigns. The Holy Spirit comes into our lives, first to convict, then to bring us to Christ, and thus to bring about regeneration. The Holy Spirit is also the Giver of sanctification. Often we consider holiness a lofty peak, almost inaccessible, too difficult for any except a few choice spirits. Paul makes it clear that striving for holiness is a sacred duty binding on all who name the name of Jesus. Then follows adoption. What more could make a Christian ready to major on living the holy life? As the Spirit leads we long to find full holiness.
II. Patience under Suffering (18–32). Paul wants us to share in the glory enjoyed by our Saviour. Meanwhile the Apostle bids us be patient in all our sufferings. The Spirit helps us to pray, and as God’s called ones to accept the plan he has had for us through the ages. When we respond to God’s call we become new creatures in Christ. In the midst of our sufferings we have the assurance that God is in full and complete control. He makes all things work together for our good and his glory. God keeps, guides, sustains, comforts and empowers his own through the constant ministry of the Holy Spirit. The saved man comes into the fullest realization of God’s purposes for him and shares eternal glory with his Saviour, the Lord Jesus.
III. Golden Assurance (31–39). All the way we have had divinely given notes of assurance. Now we are brought up suddenly with pointed questions. Who can stand against us? No power anywhere can match strength with eternal God. He is all-powerful and supreme. Does he love us? This question brings out the greatest verse in Paul’s writings: “He that spared not his own Son, but delivered him up for us all, how shall he not also freely give us all things?”
Who shall separate us from the love of Christ? Nothing anywhere can sever the golden chain that binds the heart of God to his people. Earth never has known anything like the love of Christ. You are in the middle of that love. You are one whom he has commissioned the Holy Spirit to inhabit. Why should we not lead victorious lives? We follow in the footsteps of One who has given us the supreme example of living above earthly desires. No power in the universe can separate us from the love of God. Let us determine that our lives shall be worthy of our calling.
From Preaching from Great Bible Chapters (Nashville: Broadman Press, 1957).
