February 22, 2018
Romans 4:13-17… “For this reason it depends on faith, in order that the promise may rest on grace and be guaranteed to all his descendants, not only to the adherents of the law but also to those who share the faith of Abraham…” vs. 16
Paul was writing to a mixed audience, some were Jews and others were Gentiles, and he wanted all of them to know that God’s promise of salvation came by grace through faith, and was available to all. It was never to be limited by race or ethnicity—anyone who trusted in the promise would receive the gift. Paul had been raised under the law as a Jew, and now it gave him great joy to extend the blessing to the nations. It really is a pleasure when we have the opportunity to pass on the good news to those who have felt excluded by boundaries that have been erected through the years. Some have never even heard the promises of love and forgiveness. Many have felt unworthy—even more have wandered away from the family of faith. But, when people of the promise take time to speak words of love and inclusion, those barriers will come tumbling down. Will everyone trust the words of promise? Unfortunately they won’t—the mystery of unbelief is perplexing but real. But many will believe and will be blessed with the gifts of hope and assurance. And blessed are those who regularly tell the story and make it their “theme in glory,” for they will know great joy!
Thought for the Day: What is my “theme in glory”?
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