Romans 8:32 He who did not spare his own Son, but gave him up for us all—how will he not also, along with him, graciously give us all things?
Those who know Jesus Christ and live by faith in Him have the assurance of God’s abundant provision. They have the power of the Holy Spirit within them to bring to fulfillment God’s plan and purpose for their lives. God’s word has not merely improved their standing before Him, it has changed it completely – from condemnation to life (Romans 8:1-2).
This chapter concludes Paul’s long answer to the problems of Romans 7. He pulls together all of his teaching in this book with a conclusion that demonstrates the supremacy of Christ’s righteousness. Unlike the law, which could not justify one’s standing before God, Jesus did it by shedding His own blood for the guilty. It is this work that gives the Christian the confident assurance of eternal life.
Then Paul explains that the work of redemption is not only for those who believe in Jesus Christ, but it has been planned and prepared since before creation. It is for those whom God predestined (Romans 8:30). These are called elect, or chosen. God did not choose them arbitrarily or because of anything that they did, but rather because He foreknew them (Romans 8:29). It was out of His infinite love and care that He determined to save all those who believe in Christ.
Continuing his thought, Paul says that all of creation is eagerly waiting for the revealing of the sons of God. Creation was subjected to futility because of sin, but it will ultimately be freed from its bondage into the glorious liberty of the children of God. This is a promise and a prophecy, and it is the work that the Holy Spirit is carrying out through the groaning of creation, a sign that intercession is taking place on behalf of all Christians.
This is a profound statement that goes far beyond the simple promise that “all things” will work together for good to those who love God (Romans 8:28). It reveals the full nature of Christ’s atonement and the great and magnificent plan that He has for the world. It is the reason that Paul spent so much time in this chapter.
As we move into the New Year, it would be good for us to have a better understanding of this powerful chapter in Scripture. The more we know about the rich promises of God’s abundant provision, the more secure we will be as we go forth to carry out the great commission. We are not just called to survive; we are called to make disciples of every tribe, tongue, and nation. This will only happen if we have confidence in God’s ability to provide the necessary strength for this task through the power of his people working together. May the Lord strengthen our hearts to cling to this chapter of Romans, and to live as he has called us to live.
