Romans - Outside In

[John Evens]

I like Romans 8:31, where Paul says, “What, then, shall we say in response to these things? If God is for us, who can be against us?

He is writing about "these things" that are the amazing proofs of God’s unfailing love listed in the preceding verses.

Paul speaks about the security and assurance believers have in Christ. The verse follows a discussion on God’s unwavering love and the victory believers have through Him.

Leading up to Romans 8:31, Paul emphasizes that there is no condemnation for those in Christ (Romans 8:1) and that nothing can separate believers from God’s love (Romans 8:28). The chapter builds toward a climactic affirmation of God’s support and protection, culminating in the rhetorical question: “If God is for us, who can be against us?”.

This verse is often seen as a declaration of confidence in God’s power and faithfulness. It reassures believers that, despite challenges or opposition, God’s presence and favor outweigh any adversity.

 

[Wilber]

Another encouraging verse that Paul may have pinned is a comforting promise in Scripture is that God will never leave those who are His. Hebrews 13:5 says, in part, “He Himself has said, ‘I will never leave you nor forsake you’”

The promise “I will never leave you nor forsake you” was first given to Israel and Joshua before entering the Promised Land (Deuteronomy 31:6). Encouragingly, Moses reminded Joshua that, as the succeeding leader, “the Lord himself goes before you and will be with you; he will never leave you nor forsake you. Do not be afraid; do not be discouraged” (Deuteronomy 31:8). Joshua’s task of taking the Promised Land seemed impossible, but with the Lord the task was possible, for He would not forsake Joshua.

Many other verses in the Old Testament include similar statements from God to individuals with the promise to never leave them. These individuals include

• Jacob (Genesis 28:15)
• Joshua (Deuteronomy 31:8; Joshua 1:5, 9)
• Solomon (1 Chronicles 28:20)
• The poor and needy (Isaiah 41:17)
GOT?

 

[praise_yeshua]

Another encouraging verse that Paul may have pinned is a comforting promise in Scripture is that God will never leave those who are His. Hebrews 13:5 says, in part, “He Himself has said, ‘I will never leave you nor forsake you’”

Neh 9:28 But after they had rest they did evil again before you, and you abandoned them to the hand of their enemies, so that they had dominion over them. Yet when they turned and cried to you, you heard from heaven, and many times you delivered them according to your mercies.

 

[John Evens]

Neh 9:28 But after they had rest they did evil again before you, and you abandoned them to the hand of their enemies, so that they had dominion over them. Yet when they turned and cried to you, you heard from heaven, and many times you delivered them according to your mercies.

Our God is an assume God. He brought the Jews back home after ww2 in 1947 after the Romans kicked them out in 70AD

 

[praise_yeshua]

Our God is an assume God. He brought the Jews back home after ww2 in 1947 after the Romans kicked them out in 70AD

Just making the point that "forsaken" is all about perspective for Israel. The same is true for all of the children of Adam and Abraham. God hasn't forsaken humanity.

Act 17:29 Forasmuch then as we are the offspring of God, we ought not to think that the Godhead is like unto gold, or silver, or stone, graven by art and man's device.
Act 17:30 And the times of this ignorance God winked at; but now commandeth all men every where to repent:
Act 17:31 Because he hath appointed a day, in the which he will judge the world in righteousness by that man whom he hath ordained; whereof he hath given assurance unto all men, in that he hath raised him from the dead.