Recalling Paul’s Corinthian mission where he resolved to preach nothing but “Christ and him crucified,” he embraced the same principle in writing to the Romans. Despite their belief, he planned to visit and preach the gospel to them, emphasizing that the Christian journey doesn’t advance from the gospel to greater truths. Rather, it starts, revolves around, evolves through, and concludes with the gospel of Jesus Christ.
The Christian life dives into the gospel’s depths, with each plunge unveiling the cross’s glory and God’s mercy. Consider 1 Corinthians 15:1-5, where the gospel’s centrality is evident. Paul preached Christ’s crucifixion as the core of his message. He underscores that the Christian life involves continuously clinging to the gospel, grasping it repeatedly.
Our essence as Christians is not comprehending the gospel once, but continually embracing it. Worship, baptism, the Lord’s Supper, preaching, and singing all echo the gospel. God conveys this message to us again and again. The gospel is our lifeline; this truth resonates in the Scriptures and our experiences. Hence, the Christian journey involves transmitting the gospel in three dimensions:
- To Ourselves: We interrupt internal dialogues with gospel truths daily, as we preach to our souls. Like the psalmist, we address ourselves with truth.
- To Believers: Just as we need others to preach the gospel to us, we preach it to them. We all have the mutual role of sharing God’s word.
- To Unbelievers: The gospel we need is the same unbelievers need.
Here is the gospel from Romans 8:31-34:
“31 What then shall we say to these things? If God is for us, who can be against us? 32 He who did not spare his own Son but gave him up for us all, how will he not also with him graciously give us all things? 33 Who shall bring any charge against God’s elect? It is God who justifies. 34 Who is to condemn? Christ Jesus is the one who died—more than that, who was raised—who is at the right hand of God, who indeed is interceding for us.”
Paul’s questions in this passage reveal how God is for us:
Question 1: “If God is for us, who can be against us?”
The world opposes us, Satan and his legions stand against us, even our own consciences might condemn us. Yet, with God on our side, the question shifts from “who can be against us” to “who cares.” Our circumstances don’t dictate God’s love. The cross’s historical fact—Christ’s sacrifice—trumps transient emotions. Embrace the cross, for it unequivocally signifies God’s favor.
Question 2: “How will he not with him graciously give us all things?”
Christ’s crucifixion is the historical manifestation of God being for us. Don’t rely on emotions to gauge His love; the cross validates it. God willingly gave His Son, symbolizing His love. From the cross, lesser blessings flow.
Question 3: “Who will bring a charge against God’s elect?”
God, as judge, justified us. Our assurance lies in Christ’s justification, as He won’t accuse those He justified.
Question 4: “Who is the one who condemns?”
Death, Satan, others, our conscience, the law—these may condemn us. Yet, Jesus, the ultimate Judge, intercedes for us. His death, resurrection, exaltation, and ongoing intercession guarantee our vindication.
For those who’ve embraced Christ, the gospel asserts that God is for you. It permeates Romans 8:31-34, showcasing God’s commitment to His people. As you journey through life, remember that God’s favor endures. Embrace the gospel—the unchanging truth that God is indeed for you.