through whom we also have our access by faith into this grace in which we stand. We rejoice in hope of the glory of God. Not only this, but we also rejoice in our sufferings, knowing that suffering produces perseverance; and perseverance, proven character; and proven character, hope: and hope doesn’t disappoint us, because God’s love has been poured into our hearts through the Holy Spirit who was given to us.
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Romans 5:2-5 sits inside this longer paragraph.
Being therefore justified by faith, we have peace with God through our Lord Jesus Christ; through whom we also have our access by faith into this grace in which we stand. We rejoice in hope of the glory of God. Not only this, but we also rejoice in our sufferings, knowing that suffering produces perseverance; and perseverance, proven character; and proven character, hope: and hope doesn’t disappoint us, because God’s love has been poured into our hearts through the Holy Spirit who was given to us. For while we were yet weak, at the right time Christ died for the ungodly. For one will hardly die for a righteous man. Yet perhaps for a righteous person someone would even dare to die. But God commends his own love toward us, in that while we were yet sinners, Christ died for us.
Parallel Translations
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through whom we also have our access by faith into this grace in which we stand. We rejoice in hope of the glory of God.
Not only this, but we also rejoice in our sufferings, knowing that suffering produces perseverance;
and perseverance, proven character; and proven character, hope:
and hope doesn’t disappoint us, because God’s love has been poured into our hearts through the Holy Spirit who was given to us.
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by who we have awaye in thorow fayth vnto this grace wherin we stonde and reioyce in hope of the prayse that shalbe geven of God.
Nether do we so only: but also we reioyce in tribulacion. For we know that tribulacion bringeth pacience
pacience bringeth experience experience bringeth hope.
And hope maketh not ashamed for the love of God is sheed abrod in oure hertes by the holy goost which is geven vnto vs.
Show all 3 translations
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By who also through faith, we haue had this accesse into this grace, wherein we stand, and reioyce vnder ye hope of the glory of God.
Neither that onely, but also we reioyce in tribulations, knowing that tribulation bringeth forth patience,
And patience experience, and experience hope,
And hope maketh not ashamed, because the loue of God is shed abroade in our heartes by the holy Ghost, which is giuen vnto vs.
Cross-references (101)
- James 1:2-3 (v3) Count it all joy, my brothers, when you fall into various temptations, knowing that the testing of your faith produces endurance.
- James 1:12 (vv3–4) Blessed is a person who endures temptation, for when he has been approved, he will receive the crown of life, which the Lord promised to…
- Galatians 4:6 (v5) And because you are children, God sent out the Spirit of his Son into your hearts, crying, “Abba, Father!”
- 1 Peter 3:14 (v3) But even if you should suffer for righteousness’ sake, you are blessed. “Don’t fear what they fear, neither be troubled.”
- 2 Corinthians 12:9-10 (v3) He has said to me, “My grace is sufficient for you, for my power is made perfect in weakness.” Most gladly therefore I will rather glory in…
Show all 97 cross-references
- 2 Corinthians 4:17 (vv2–3) For our light affliction, which is for the moment, works for us more and more exceedingly an eternal weight of glory,
- Ephesians 2:18 (v2) For through him we both have our access in one Spirit to the Father.
- Ephesians 3:16-19 (v5) that he would grant you, according to the riches of his glory, that you may be strengthened with power through his Spirit in the inner…
- Philippians 1:20 (v5) according to my earnest expectation and hope, that I will in no way be disappointed, but with all boldness, as always, now also Christ will…
- Ephesians 3:12 (v2) In him we have boldness and access in confidence through our faith in him.
- 2 Timothy 1:12 (v5) For this cause I also suffer these things. Yet I am not ashamed, for I know him whom I have believed, and I am persuaded that he is able to…
- 2 Corinthians 1:22 (v5) who also sealed us, and gave us the down payment of the Spirit in our hearts.
- 1 Peter 5:10 (v4) But may the God of all grace, who called you to his eternal glory by Christ Jesus, after you have suffered a little while, perfect,…
- Isaiah 44:3-5 (v5) For I will pour water on him who is thirsty, and streams on the dry ground. I will pour my Spirit on your descendants, and my blessing on…
- Luke 6:22-23 (v3) Blessed are you when men hate you, and when they exclude and mock you, and throw out your name as evil, for the Son of Man’s sake. Rejoice…
- 1 John 4:19 (v5) We love him, because he first loved us.
- Acts 2:33 (v5) Being therefore exalted by the right hand of God, and having received from the Father the promise of the Holy Spirit, he has poured out…
- Ephesians 1:13 (v5) In him you also, having heard the word of the truth, the Good News of your salvation—in whom, having also believed, you were sealed with…
- Romans 12:12 (v2) rejoicing in hope; enduring in troubles; continuing steadfastly in prayer;
- Hebrews 8:10-12 (v5) “For this is the covenant that I will make with the house of Israel. After those days,” says the Lord; “I will put my laws into their mind,…
- 2 Thessalonians 2:16 (vv2, 5) Now our Lord Jesus Christ himself, and God our Father, who loved us and gave us eternal comfort and good hope through grace,
- Romans 8:14-17 (v5) For as many as are led by the Spirit of God, these are children of God. For you didn’t receive the spirit of bondage again to fear, but you…
- 1 Corinthians 15:1 (v2) Now I declare to you, brothers, the Good News which I preached to you, which also you received, in which you also stand,
- Galatians 5:22 (v5) But the fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faith,
- Ephesians 4:30 (v5) Don’t grieve the Holy Spirit of God, in whom you were sealed for the day of redemption.
- Titus 3:5-6 (v5) not by works of righteousness which we did ourselves, but according to his mercy, he saved us through the washing of regeneration and…
- Job 27:8 (v5) For what is the hope of the godless, when he is cut off, when God takes away his life?
- Acts 2:17 (v5) ‘It will be in the last days, says God, that I will pour out my Spirit on all flesh. Your sons and your daughters will prophesy. Your young…
- Romans 8:35-37 (v3) Who shall separate us from the love of Christ? Could oppression, or anguish, or persecution, or famine, or nakedness, or peril, or sword?…
- 2 Corinthians 4:6 (v5) seeing it is God who said, “Light will shine out of darkness,” who has shone in our hearts to give the light of the knowledge of the glory…
- 2 Corinthians 4:8-12 (v4) We are pressed on every side, yet not crushed; perplexed, yet not to despair; pursued, yet not forsaken; struck down, yet not destroyed;…
- 1 Peter 3:18 (v2) Because Christ also suffered for sins once, the righteous for the unrighteous, that he might bring you to God, being put to death in the…
- Psalms 119:116 (v5) Uphold me according to your word, that I may live. Let me not be ashamed of my hope.
- 2 Corinthians 3:18 (vv2, 5) But we all, with unveiled face seeing the glory of the Lord as in a mirror, are transformed into the same image from glory to glory, even…
- Luke 21:19 (v3) “By your endurance you will win your lives.
- Hebrews 12:10-11 (v3) For they indeed, for a few days, punished us as seemed good to them; but he for our profit, that we may be partakers of his holiness. All…
- Psalms 71:18-24 (v4) Yes, even when I am old and gray-haired, God, don’t forsake me, until I have declared your strength to the next generation, your might to…
- 2 Timothy 4:16-18 (v4) At my first defense, no one came to help me, but all left me. May it not be held against them. But the Lord stood by me and strengthened…
- Hebrews 3:6 (v2) but Christ is faithful as a Son over his house. We are his house, if we hold fast our confidence and the glorying of our hope firm to the…
- 1 Peter 1:6-7 (v4) Wherein you greatly rejoice, though now for a little while, if need be, you have been grieved in various trials, that the proof of your…
- Matthew 22:36-37 (v5) “Teacher, which is the greatest commandment in the law?” Jesus said to him, “ ‘You shall love the Lord your God with all your heart, with…
- John 10:9 (v2) I am the door. If anyone enters in by me, he will be saved, and will go in and go out, and will find pasture.
- Hebrews 6:18-19 (v5) that by two immutable things, in which it is impossible for God to lie, we may have a strong encouragement, who have fled for refuge to…
- Psalms 22:4-5 (v5) Our fathers trusted in you. They trusted, and you delivered them. They cried to you, and were delivered. They trusted in you, and were not…
- Isaiah 28:15-18 (v5) “Because you have said, ‘We have made a covenant with death, and we are in agreement with Sheol. When the overflowing scourge passes…
- Isaiah 45:16-17 (v5) They will be disappointed, yes, confounded, all of them. Those who are makers of idols will go into confusion together. Israel will be…
- Jeremiah 17:5-8 (v5) Yahweh says: “Cursed is the man who trusts in man, relies on strength of flesh, and whose heart departs from Yahweh. For he will be like a…
- Ezekiel 36:25 (v5) I will sprinkle clean water on you, and you will be clean. I will cleanse you from all your filthiness, and from all your idols.
- John 5:24 (v2) “Most certainly I tell you, he who hears my word and believes him who sent me has eternal life, and doesn’t come into judgment, but has…
- Romans 8:28 (v5) We know that all things work together for good for those who love God, for those who are called according to his purpose.
- 1 Corinthians 8:3 (v5) But if anyone loves God, the same is known by him.
- Psalms 27:2-3 (v4) When evildoers came at me to eat up my flesh, even my adversaries and my foes, they stumbled and fell. Though an army should encamp against…
- Psalms 42:4-5 (v4) These things I remember, and pour out my soul within me, how I used to go with the crowd, and led them to God’s house, with the voice of…
- Matthew 5:10-12 (v3) Blessed are those who have been persecuted for righteousness’ sake, for theirs is the Kingdom of Heaven. “Blessed are you when people…
- 2 Corinthians 1:4-6 (v4) who comforts us in all our affliction, that we may be able to comfort those who are in any affliction, through the comfort with which we…
- 2 Corinthians 6:9-10 (v4) as unknown, and yet well known; as dying, and behold, we live; as punished, and not killed; as sorrowful, yet always rejoicing; as poor,…
- Philippians 2:17-18 (v3) Yes, and if I am poured out on the sacrifice and service of your faith, I rejoice, and rejoice with you all. In the same way, you also…
- Psalms 17:15 (v2) As for me, I shall see your face in righteousness. I shall be satisfied, when I awake, with seeing your form.
- Isaiah 49:23 (v5) Kings shall be your foster fathers, and their queens your nursing mothers. They will bow down to you with their faces to the earth, and…
- Acts 5:41 (v3) They therefore departed from the presence of the council, rejoicing that they were counted worthy to suffer dishonor for Jesus’ name.
- 2 Corinthians 11:23-30 (v3) Are they servants of Christ? (I speak as one beside himself.) I am more so: in labors more abundantly, in prisons more abundantly, in…
- Ephesians 3:13 (v3) Therefore I ask that you may not lose heart at my troubles for you, which are your glory.
- Hebrews 10:19-20 (v2) Having therefore, brothers, boldness to enter into the holy place by the blood of Jesus, by the way which he dedicated for us, a new and…
- Joshua 10:24-25 (v4) When they brought those kings out to Joshua, Joshua called for all the men of Israel, and said to the chiefs of the men of war who went…
- 1 Samuel 17:34-37 (v4) David said to Saul, “Your servant was keeping his father’s sheep; and when a lion or a bear came, and took a lamb out of the flock, I went…
- Psalms 71:14 (v4) But I will always hope, and will add to all of your praise.
- Romans 15:13 (v2) Now may the God of hope fill you with all joy and peace in believing, that you may abound in hope, in the power of the Holy Spirit.
- 1 Peter 1:3-9 (v2) Blessed be the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, who according to his great mercy caused us to be born again to a living hope…
- Romans 15:4 (v4) For whatever things were written before were written for our learning, that through perseverance and through encouragement of the…
- 1 John 3:1-3 (v2) See how great a love the Father has given to us, that we should be called children of God! For this cause the world doesn’t know us,…
- Psalms 16:9-11 (v2) Therefore my heart is glad, and my tongue rejoices. My body shall also dwell in safety. For you will not leave my soul in Sheol, neither…
- John 14:6 (v2) Jesus said to him, “I am the way, the truth, and the life. No one comes to the Father, except through me.
- Romans 5:5 (v2) and hope doesn’t disappoint us, because God’s love has been poured into our hearts through the Holy Spirit who was given to us.
- Romans 8:17-18 (v2) and if children, then heirs: heirs of God and joint heirs with Christ, if indeed we suffer with him, that we may also be glorified with…
- 1 Peter 4:16-17 (v3) But if one of you suffers for being a Christian, let him not be ashamed; but let him glorify God in this matter. For the time has come for…
- Psalms 73:24 (v2) You will guide me with your counsel, and afterward receive me to glory.
- John 10:7 (v2) Jesus therefore said to them again, “Most certainly, I tell you, I am the sheep’s door.
- Romans 2:7 (v2) to those who by perseverance in well-doing seek for glory, honor, and incorruptibility, eternal life;
- Romans 3:23 (v2) for all have sinned, and fall short of the glory of God;
- Romans 5:9-10 (v2) Much more then, being now justified by his blood, we will be saved from God’s wrath through him. For if while we were enemies, we were…
- Romans 8:24 (v2) For we were saved in hope, but hope that is seen is not hope. For who hopes for that which he sees?
- Philippians 1:29 (v3) Because it has been granted to you on behalf of Christ, not only to believe in him, but also to suffer on his behalf,
- Revelation 21:3 (v2) I heard a loud voice out of heaven saying, “Behold, God’s dwelling is with people, and he will dwell with them, and they will be his…
- Revelation 21:23 (v2) The city has no need for the sun or moon to shine, for the very glory of God illuminated it, and its lamp is the Lamb.
- Revelation 22:4-5 (v2) They will see his face, and his name will be on their foreheads. There will be no night, and they need no lamp light or sun light; for the…
- Exodus 33:18-20 (v2) Moses said, “Please show me your glory.” He said, “I will make all my goodness pass before you, and will proclaim Yahweh’s name before you.…
- Matthew 25:21 (v2) “His lord said to him, ‘Well done, good and faithful servant. You have been faithful over a few things, I will set you over many things.…
- Acts 14:27 (v2) When they had arrived, and had gathered the assembly together, they reported all the things that God had done with them, and that he had…
- Romans 8:30-39 (v2) Whom he predestined, those he also called. Whom he called, those he also justified. Whom he justified, those he also glorified. What then…
- Hebrews 6:18 (v2) that by two immutable things, in which it is impossible for God to lie, we may have a strong encouragement, who have fled for refuge to…
- Revelation 3:21 (v2) He who overcomes, I will give to him to sit down with me on my throne, as I also overcame, and sat down with my Father on his throne.
- Revelation 21:11 (v2) having the glory of God. Her light was like a most precious stone, as if it were a jasper stone, clear as crystal;
- Job 19:25-27 (v2) But as for me, I know that my Redeemer lives. In the end, he will stand upon the earth. After my skin is destroyed, then I will see God in…
- Proverbs 14:32 (v2) The wicked is brought down in his calamity, but in death, the righteous has a refuge.
- Romans 8:1 (v2) There is therefore now no condemnation to those who are in Christ Jesus, who don’t walk according to the flesh, but according to the Spirit.
- Romans 14:4 (v2) Who are you who judge another’s servant? To his own lord he stands or falls. Yes, he will be made to stand, for God has power to make him…
- Ephesians 6:13 (v2) Therefore put on the whole armor of God, that you may be able to withstand in the evil day, and having done all, to stand.
97 distinct cross-references across this passage (101 total citations).
Cross-references from openbible.info (CC BY 4.0)
Explain this passage (25 sources)
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John Calvin 1540 · Public Domain On vv2–5 2. Through whom we have access, etc. Our reconciliation…
2. Through whom we have access, etc. Our reconciliation with God depends only on Christ; for he only is the beloved Son, and we are all by nature the children of wrath. But this favor is communicated to us by the gospel; for the gospel is the ministry of reconciliation, by the means of which we are in a manner brought into the kingdom of God. Rightly then does Paul set before our eyes in Christ a sure pledge of God’s favor, that he might more easily draw us away from every confidence in works. And as he teaches us by the word access, that salvation begins with Christ, he excludes those preparations by which foolish men imagine that they can anticipate God’s mercy; as though he said, “Christ comes not to you, nor helps you, on account of your merits.” He afterwards immediately subjoins, that it is through the continuance of the same favor that our salvation becomes certain and sure; by which he intimates, that perseverance is not founded on our power and diligence, but on Christ; though at the same time by saying, that we stand, he indicates that the gospel ought to strike deep roots into the hearts of the godly, so that being strengthened by its truth, they may stand firm against all the devices of Satan and of the flesh. And by the word stand, he means, that faith is not a changeable persuasion, only for one day; but that it is immutable, and that it sinks deep into the heart, so that it endures through life. It is then not he, who by a sudden impulse is led to believe, that has faith, and is to be reckoned among the faithful; but he who constantly, and, so to speak, with a firm and fixed foot, abides in that station appointed to him by God, so as to cleave always to Christ.
And glory in the hope, etc. The reason that the hope of a future life exists and dares to exult, is this, — because we rest on God’s favor as on a sure foundation: for Paul’s meaning is, that though the faithful are now pilgrims on the earth, they yet by hope scale the heavens, so that they quietly enjoy in their own bosoms their future inheritance. And hereby are subverted two of the most pestilent dogmas of the sophists. What they do in the first place is, they bid Christians to be satisfied with moral conjecture as to the perception of God’s favor towards them; and secondly, they teach that all are uncertain as to their final perseverance; but except there be at present sure knowledge, and a firm and undoubting persuasion as to the future, who would dare to glory? The hope of the glory of God has shone upon us through the gospel, which testifies that we shall be participators of the Divine nature; for when we shall see God face to face, we shall be like him. (2 Peter 1:4; 1 John 3:2.)
John Calvin's Commentaries (1540-1563) — public domain. Text from the Calvin Translation Society English edition (1840s-50s) via the Christian Classics Ethereal Library (ccel.org). Calvin's coverage is partial (roughly two-thirds of the Bible); uncommented books and verses are honest gaps, never fabricated. The 19th-century editor's footnotes and remarks are omitted so the notes are faithfully Calvin's own voice.
Geneva Bible translators 1599 · Public Domain On vv2, 3, 5 We must here know, that we have yet still…
We must here know, that we have yet still this same effect of faith.
Whereas quietness of conscience is attributed to faith, it is to be referred to Christ, who is the giver of faith itself, and in whom faith itself is effectual.
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By which grace, that is, by which gracious love and good will, or that state whereunto we are graciously taken.
We stand steadfast.
A preventing of an objection against them which beholding the daily miseries and calamities of the Church, think that the Christians dream, when they brag of their felicity: to whom the Apostle answereth, that their felicity is laid up under hope of another place: which hope is so certain and sure, that they do not less rejoice for that happiness, than if they did presently enjoy it.
Our minds are not only quiet and settled, but also we are marvelously glad and conceive great joy for that heavenly inheritance which waiteth for us.
Geneva Bible (1599) marginal notes — public domain.
John Trapp 1656 · Public Domain On vv2–5 2 By whom also we have access by faith…
2 By whom also we have access by faith into this grace wherein we stand, and rejoice in hope of the glory of God.
Ver. 2. We have access] προσαγωγην, Christ leading us by the hand, and presenting us to the Father, with, "Behold, here am I, and the children whom thou hast given me." Eph 2:18.
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Wherein we stand] εστηκαμεν, not stirring a foot, for any temptation or percention. A metaphor from soldiers keeping their station in the battle.
John Trapp, A Commentary or Exposition upon All the Books of the Old and New Testament (1647–1656) — public domain. Text from a community e-Sword module.
Matthew Poole 1685 · Public Domain On vv2–5 We have not only reconciliation with God by Jesus…
We have not only reconciliation with God by Jesus Christ, but also by faith in him we are admitted to his presence, his grace and favour. One may be reconciled to his prince, and yet not to be brought into his presence: witness Absalom, &c. See Eph 2:18; 3:12; 1Pe 3:18.
This grace is either that whereof he spake, Rom 3:24; or else rather it may be understood of that excellent state of reconciliation, friendship, and favour with God, which God hath graciously bestowed upon us.
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Wherein we stand; or, in which we stand or abide, not stirring a foot for any temptation or persecution: a metaphor from soldiers keeping their station in fight. A man may obtain his prince’s favour, and lose it again; but, &c.
And rejoice in hope of the glory of God; in the glory hoped for, a Hebraism; see Luk 10:20; 1Pe 1:8,9; even in that glory which God hath promised, and which consists in the enjoyment of him.
Matthew Poole's English Annotations on the Holy Bible (1683–1685) — public domain. Text from a community e-Sword/MySword module.
William Burkitt 1703 · Public Domain On vv2–3 A second benefit which flows from justification by faith,…
A second benefit which flows from justification by faith, is our admission to grace and favour with God: This is a privilege beyond the former; a traitor may be pardoned by his prince, and yet not admitted into the presence of his prince; as Absolem’s crime was forgiven, but he must not see his father’s face: But by Christ’s mediation, every justified person meets with divine acceptance; yea, he is not only brought into a state of grace and favour, but he stands and abides in it. No sufferings from God, no sufferings from man for God’s sake, no temptations, no tribulations nor persecutions, can cause God to cast him out of his grace and favour; having access by faith into it, he shall stand and abide in it. True, he may fall under his Father’s rod, but he shall never fall from his Father’s love: Through Christ we have access by faith into this grace wherein we stand.
A third benefit follows. We rejoice in the hope of the glory of God.
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Here observe, 1. The happy union and connection between grace and glory; grace is glory begun, and glory is grace consummated; grace is glory in the bud, glory is grace in the fruits; grace is the lowest degree of glory, and glory the highest degree of grace.
Happy soul, that is partaker of the first fruits of grace! thou shalt ere long reap the crop of glory!
Observe, 2. A justified person has the hope of future, glory, and always may, and sometimes can, rejoice in the hope; We rejoice in the hope of the glory of God: He hopes for the glory of God, and well he may, for ’tis purchased for him; ’tis promised to him; he has it already in the first fruits and earnest of that: It is prepared for him, and he is preparing for that; and he rejoices in the hope of his glory, believing it to be great and glorious, sure and certain, never decaying, everlasting.
William Burkitt's Expository Notes on the New Testament (1700–1703) — public domain. Text from a community e-Sword module.
John Gill 1763 · Public Domain On vv2–5 By whom also we have access by faith,.... The…
By whom also we have access by faith,.... The access here spoken of is not to the blessing of justification; for though that is a grace which we have access to by Christ, and come at the knowledge of by faith, and enjoy the comfort of through it; and is a grace in which persons stand, and from which they shall never fall, and lays a solid foundation for rejoicing in hope of eternal glory; yet this sense would make the apostle guilty of a great tautology; and besides, he is not speaking of that blessing itself, but of its effects; and here of one distinct from "peace with God", before mentioned, as the word also manifestly shows: nor does it design any other blessing of grace, as pardon, adoption, sanctification, &c. and an access thereunto; not unto the free grace, favour, and good will of God, the source of all blessings; but to the throne of grace, which may be called
that grace, because of its name, for God, as the God of all grace, sits upon it; it is an high favour to be admitted to it; it is grace persons come thither for, and which they may expect to find there: and
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in, or "at"
which we stand; which denotes boldness, courage, and intrepidity, and a freedom from a servile fear and bashful spirit, and a continued constant attendance at it; all which is consistent with reverence, humility, and submission to the will of God. Now access to the throne of grace, and standing at that, are "by" Christ. There is no access to God in our own name and righteousness, and upon the foot of our own works. Christ is the only way of access to God, and acceptance with him; he is the Mediator between God and us; he introduces into his Father's presence, gives audience at his throne, and renders both persons and services acceptable unto him: and this access is also "by faith"; and that both in God the Father, as our covenant God and Father; in faith of interest in his love and favour; believing his power and faithfulness, his fulness and sufficiency, and that he is a God hearing and answering prayer: and also in the Lord Jesus Christ; in his person for acceptance; in his righteousness for justification; in his blood for pardon; and in his fulness for every supply: and such as have access to the throne of grace by faith in Christ, being comfortably persuaded of their justification before God, through his righteousness imputed to them, can and do
rejoice in hope of the glory of God; which is another effect of justification by faith: by the "glory of God"; which is another effect of justification by faith: by the "glory of God", is not meant the essential glory of God; nor that which we ought to seek in all that we are concerned, and which we are to ascribe unto him on the account of his perfections and works; but that everlasting glory and happiness which he has prepared for his people, has promised to them, and has called them to by Christ, and will bestow upon them; of which he has given them a good hope through grace; and in the hope and believing views of which they can, and do rejoice, even amidst a variety of afflictions and tribulations in this world. The Vulgate Latin version reads, "in hope of the glory of the children of God"; eternal glory being proper to them.
John Gill's Exposition of the Whole Bible (1746–1763) — public domain (CC PDM 1.0). Text via the HelloAO Bible API.
John Wesley 1765 · Public Domain On vv2–5 Into this grace - This state of favour.
Into this grace - This state of favour.
John Wesley, Explanatory Notes Upon the Whole Bible (1754–1765) — public domain. Text via the GEBible commentary corpus.
Adam Clarke 1810 · Public Domain On vv2–5 Verse 2. By whom also] We are not only…
Verse 2. By whom also] We are not only indebted to our Lord Jesus Christ for the free and full pardon which we have received, but our continuance in a justified state depends upon his gracious influence in our hearts, and his intercession before the throne of God.
We have access] προσαγωγην εσχηκαμεν, We have received this access. It was only through Christ that we could at first approach God; and it is only through him that the privilege is continued to us. And this access to God, or introduction to the Divine presence, is to be considered as a lasting privilege. We are not brought to God for the purpose of an interview, but to remain with him; to be his household; and, by faith, to behold his face, and walk in the light of his countenance.
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Into this grace] This state of favour and acceptance.
Wherein we stand] Having firm footing, and a just title through the blood of the Lamb to the full salvation of God.
And rejoice] Have solid happiness, from the evidence we have of our acceptance with Him.
In hope of the glory of God.] Having our sins remitted, and our souls adopted into the heavenly family, we are become heirs; for if children, then heirs, Ga 4:7; and that glory of God is now become our endless inheritance. While the Jews boast of their external privileges-that they have the temple of God among them; that their priests have an entrance to God as their representatives, carrying before the mercy-seat the blood of their offered victims; we exult in being introduced by Jesus Christ to the Divine presence; his blood having been shed and sprinkled for this purpose; and thus we have, spiritually and essentially, all that these Jewish rites, &c., signified. We are in the peace of God, and we are happy in the enjoyment of that peace, and have a blessed foretaste of eternal glory. Thus we have heaven upon earth, and the ineffable glories of God in prospect.
Adam Clarke's Commentary on the Bible (1810–1826) — public domain. Text from a community e-Sword/MySword module.
Joseph Benson 1811 · Public Domain On vv2, 3, 5 Rom 5:2. By whom also we have access —…
Rom 5:2. By whom also we have access — Greek, την προσαγωγην, admittance, entrance, or introduction. The word, as Raphelius has shown from the heathen historian, Herodotus, is often used as a sacerdotal phrase, and signifies, “being with great solemnity introduced as into the more immediate presence of a deity in his temple, so as (by a supposed interpreter, from thence called προσαγωγευς, the introducer) to have a kind of conference with such a deity.” By faith into this grace — Into this state of favour, and a state in which we receive, or may receive, grace to help in every time of need. The word also shows that the blessing here spoken of is different from and superior to the peace with God, mentioned in the preceding verse. Wherein we stand — Remain, abide; or rather, stand firm, as the word εστηκαμεν signifies. “As the apostle often compares the conflicts which the first Christians maintained, against persecutors and false teachers, to the Grecian combats, perhaps, by standing firm, he meant that, as stout wrestlers, they successfully maintained their faith in the gospel, in opposition both to the Jews and heathen, notwithstanding the sufferings which the profession of their faith had brought on them.” And rejoice in hope of the glory of God — Here two other blessings are mentioned, rising in degree above both the preceding; a hope of the glory of God, and joy arising therefrom. By the glory of God is meant the vision and enjoyment of the God of glory in a future state, particularly after the resurrection and the general judgment; including a full conformity to Jesus Christ, the Lord of glory, in soul and body; (to whom we shall be made like, because we shall see him as he is, 1Jn 3:2;) also the glorious society of saints and angels, and a glorious world, the place of our eternal abode. Of this, those that are justified by faith have a lively and well-grounded hope, being heirs of it in consequence of their justification, Tit 3:7; and of their adoption, Rom 8:14-17; Gal 4:6-7; and through this hope, to which they are begotten again by faith in the resurrection of Christ, who rose the first-fruits of them that sleep, and by pardoning and renewing grace, communicated in and through him, they rejoice frequently with joy unspeakable and full of glory, 1Pe 1:3-8; being sealed to the day of redemption and having an earnest of their future inheritance by God’s Spirit in their hearts.
Joseph Benson's Commentary on the Old and New Testaments (1811–1818) — public domain. Text from a community e-Sword module.
Albert Barnes 1834 · Public Domain On vv2–5 We have access - See the note at Joh…
We have access - See the note at Joh 14:6, “I am the way,” etc. Doddridge renders it, “by whom we have been introduced,” etc. It means, “by whom we have the privilege of obtaining the favor of God which we enjoy when we are justified.” The word rendered “access” occurs but in two other places in the New Testament, Eph 2:18; Eph 3:12. By Jesus Christ the way is opened for us to obtain the favor of God.
By faith - By means of faith, Rom 1:17.
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Into this grace - Into this favor of reconciliation with God.
Wherein we stand - In which we now are in consequence of being justified.
And rejoice - Religion is often represented as producing joy, Isa 12:3; Isa 35:10; Isa 52:9; Isa 61:3, Isa 61:7; Isa 65:14, Isa 65:18; Joh 16:22, Joh 16:24; Act 13:52; Rom 14:17; Gal 5:22; 1Pe 1:8. The sources or steps of this joy are these:
(1) We are justified, or regarded by God as righteous.
(2) We are admitted into his favor, and abide there.
(3) We have the prospect of still higher and richer blessings in the fulness of his glory when we are admitted to heaven.
In hope - In the earnest desire and expectation of obtaining that glory. Hope is a complex emotion made up of a desire for an object; and an expectation of obtaining it. Where either of these is lacking, there is not hope. Where they are mingled in improper proportions, there is not peace. But where the desire of obtaining an object is attended with an expectation of obtaining it, in proportion to that desire, there exists that peaceful, happy state of mind which we denominate hope And the apostle here implies that the Christian has an earnest desire for that glory; and that he has a confident expectation of obtaining it. The result of that he immediately states to be, that we are by it sustained in our afflictions.
The glory of God - The glory that God will bestow on us. The word “glory” usually means splendor, magnificence, honor; and the apostle here refers to that honor and dignity which will be conferred on the redeemed when they are raised up to the full honors of redemption; when they shall triumph in the completion of the work: and be freed from sin, and pain, and tears, and permitted to participate in the full splendors that shall encompass the throne of God in the heavens; see the note at Luk 2:9; compare Rev 21:22-24; Rev 22:5; Isa 60:19-20.
Albert Barnes' Notes on the Bible (1834–1885) — public domain. Text from a community e-Sword/MySword module.
Haydock's Catholic Bible Commentary 1859 · Public Domain On vv3, 5 We glory in spirit in the afflictions, oppression, and…
We glory in spirit in the afflictions, oppression, and persecution, which we suffer as Christians, esteeming them a great blessing. Thus the apostles went rejoicing from before the council, because they had been thought worthy to suffer disgrace for the name of Jesus. (Acts v.) And St. James (chap. i.) says: Think it the greatest joy when you fall into various temptations: (i.e. tribulations) for these sufferings greatly serve to confirm the elect in the hopes which they have of enjoying the glory of the world to come. (Estius)
George Leo Haydock (1774–1849), Haydock's Catholic Family Bible and Commentary, 1859 edition — public domain. Excludes Psalms (Douay-Rheims chapter numbering differs from Protestant) and Deuterocanonical books (Catholic canon only).
Robert Jamieson, A. R. Fausset & David Brown 1871 · Public Domain On vv2–5 By whom also we have--"have had"
By whom also we have--"have had"
access by faith into this grace--favor with God.
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wherein we stand--that is "To that same faith which first gave us 'peace with God' we owe our introduction into that permanent standing in the favor of God which the justified enjoy." As it is difficult to distinguish this from the peace first mentioned, we regard it as merely an additional phase of the same [MEYER, PHILIPPI, MEHRING], rather than something new [BEZA, THOLUCK, HODGE].
and rejoice--"glory," "boast," "triumph"--"rejoice" is not strong enough.
in hope of the glory of God--On "hope," see on Rom 5:4.
Jamieson, Fausset & Brown — Commentary Critical and Explanatory on the Whole Bible (1871) — public domain (CC PDM 1.0). Text via the HelloAO Bible API.
Daniel D. Whedon 1874 · Public Domain On vv2–5 2. Access—As Esther obtained an entrance to and gracious…
2. Access—As Esther obtained an entrance to and gracious hearing from the king, so the justified man has access to God’s face. He has audience with the Deity. His prayers come up before God. His intercessions are prevalent with God. Well may saint and sinner say to him, Pray for us.
Hope of the glory of God—He is animated now with the hope of a future glory.
Daniel D. Whedon (gen. ed.), Commentary on the Old and New Testaments (1874–1909) — public domain. Text from a community e-Sword module.
The Cambridge Bible for Schools and Colleges 1878 · Public Domain On vv2–5 2. by whom] Lit. through whom; the same construction…
2. by whom] Lit. through whom; the same construction as that just before.
also] i.e. “we owe to Him our entrance to grace, as well as our standing in it.”
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we have access] Lit. we have had; “we have found.” The time-reference is to a past reception resulting in present possession.—“Access:”—lit. the introduction; “our introduction.” Same word as Eph_2:18; Eph_3:12 (though the reference there is not precisely that here), and 1Pe_3:18 (where E. V. has “bring us to God”). The idea is of the acceptance of the acquitted. Both ideas, acquittal by a Judge and acceptance by a reconciled Father, reside in Justification.
by faith] Our side of the matter. The Lord’s “introduction” of us to His Father’s acceptance takes effect individually when we individually believe.
this grace] i.e. “acceptance” (Eph_1:6) and resulting “peace.” The word recalls the fact that acceptance, as previously proved (see ch. 4), is “according to grace,” not debt.
wherein we stand] The word “stand” is in contrast to the “fall” of the rejected and condemned. See Rom_11:20; also Psa_1:5; Psa_130:3; Rev_6:17; and 1Co_15:1, where the context gives the idea of acceptance and safety, as here. That of perseverance (as in Act_26:22, E. V. “continue”) may also be present; but the context shews that acceptance is at least the main point.
rejoice] A word elsewhere rendered “glory” (as just below, Rom_5:3), or “boast.” See on Rom_4:2. The reasoning here rises, from the foundation-truth of lawful justification, to the holy elevations of consequent joy and energy in the justified.
in hope] Lit. on hope. Perhaps here (as in Rom_4:18, q. v.) the “hope” is objective; “the hope set before us” (Heb_6:18), i.e. the promise and pledges of glory. On this our joy is based.
the glory of God] For commentary, see Rom_8:18; Rom_8:21; Rom_8:30.—The eternal bliss of the justified is called “the glory of God” because it is a state of joy, love, majesty, and holiness, bestowed by God; in the presence of God; and being in its essence the Vision of God, and likeness to Him. Cp. Joh_17:24; 2Co_4:17; Php_3:21; Col_1:27; 2Ti_2:10; 1Pe_4:13; Rev_21:11; Rev_21:23.—This ver. is a brief anticipation of ch. 8.
The Cambridge Bible for Schools and Colleges (gen. ed. J. J. S. Perowne; Cambridge University Press, 1878–1918) — public domain. Text from a community e-Sword module.
Ellicott's Commentary for English Readers 1878 · Public Domain On vv2–5 (2) By whom.—More accurately translated, through whom also we…
(2) By whom.—More accurately translated, through whom also we have had our access (Ellicott). “Have had” when we first became Christians, and now while we are such.
Into this grace.—This state of acceptance and favour with God, the fruit of justification.
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Rejoice.—The word used elsewhere for “boasting.” The Christian has his boasting, but it is not based upon his own merits. It is a joyful and triumphant confidence in the future, not only felt, but expressed.
The glory of God.—That glory which the “children of the kingdom” shall share with the Messiah Himself when His eternal reign begins.
A Bible Commentary for English Readers, edited by Charles John Ellicott (1878–1897) — public domain. Text from a community e-Sword module.
The Pulpit Commentary 1880 · Public Domain On vv2–3 Through whom also we have (rather, have had edchkamenreferring…
Through whom also we have (rather, have had edchkamenreferring to the past time of conversion and baptism, but with the idea of continuance expressed by the perfect) the (or, our) access by faith (the words, "by faith," which are not required, are absent from many manuscripts) into this grace wherein we stand, and rejoice (properly, glory, kaucwmeya , the same word as in the following verse, and most usually so rendered elsewhere, though sometimes by "boast." Our translators seem in this verse to have departed from their usual rendering because of the substantive "glory," in a different sense, which follows) in hope of the glory of God. Prosagwgh (translated "access") occurs in the same sense in Eph_2:18 and Eph_3:12; in both cases, as here, with the article, so as to denote some well-known access or approach. It means the access to the holy God, which had been barred by sin, but which has been opened to us through Christ. (cf. Heb_10:19) It is a question whether eiv thrin is properly taken (as in the Authorized Version) in immediate connection with prosagwghn , as denoting that into which we have our access. In Eph_2:18 the word is followed by the more suitable preposition prov , the phrase being, "access to the Father;" and this may be understood here, the sense being, "We have through Christ our access (to the Father) unto (i.e. so as to result in) the state of grace and acceptance in which we now stand." As to "the glory of God," see above Rom_3:23. Here our hoped-for future participation in the Divine glory is more distinctly intimated by the words, ep elpidi . This last phrase bears the same sense as in 1Co_9:10, and probably in Rom_4:18 above. It does not mean that hope is that wherein we glory, but that, being in a state of hope, we glory.
Vers. 2-5. Christian discipline.
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Christianity is a religion intended both for heaven and for earth. It does not lose sight of the present when gazing into the future, visible to it alone. Beginning with our relation to God, it establishes thereupon our relation to men. It unfolds morality in the act of revealing the spiritual and Divine. It represents heaven, not merely as a compensation for the miseries of time and earth, but as a state attained by the training and the education which, in the order of Divine providence, time and earth are primarily intended to provide for men.
I THIS EARTHLY LIFE IS HERE DEPICTED AS A SCENE OF TRIBULATION. That human existence is characterized by trouble and sorrow is a trite but indisputable truth. There is no person who has ever lived to whom all things have happened as he would have wished. And with most persons life has been, in many respects, a long contradiction of their natural tastes and preferences. Whether in body or in mind, in circumstances or in relationships, in associations or employment, by bereavement or defections, all men are, and have ever been, in some way or other afflicted. This condition of our earthly pilgrimage is to many an occasion of annoyance, irritation, murmuring, rebellion. Others, of a more reasonable habit of mind, submit, with a certain stolidity, to what they regard as inevitable evil. But true religion teaches a better way of accepting our lot. We are taught to expect tribulation, and we are not taught to regard piety as exempting from the common discipline. "Count it not strange concerning the fiery trial among you." Our great Leader passed through worse tribulation than any of his followers; though he did not merit any of his sorrows, whilst we deserve more than all of ours. He has also given us to understand what shall be our experience. "In the world," said he, "ye shall have tribulation." There is no discharge from this war. The Jews, indeed, often expected prosperity as a reward of piety; and a great English writer has said, "Prosperity was the blessing of the old covenant, adversity of the new." The cup is passed round in the household of God, and every member of that household must drink of it. Those specially afflicted may be reminded that, though it is no relief to them to learn that others suffer, it is an indication of Divine providence that the universal fact is a law intended to work purposes in harmony with the nature and character of the holy and benevolent Lawgiver.
II THE PROCESS IS HERE DESCRIBED BY WHICH TRIBULATION PROVES BENEFICIAL. The Apostle Paul took pleasure in showing the reasonableness of religious belief. He might have stood upon the authority of his inspiration, and have required his readers to accept tribulation as certain to benefit such of them as were true Christians. But he chose rather to show them how the discipline of Divine wisdom promotes the highest welfare of the faithful. There is a ladder, by the several steps of which the follower of Christ mounts from earthly trial to heavenly joy. The foot of the ladder may be upon the cold soil of earth, but its top reaches to the clouds. Let us bear in mind, however, that it is not a natural and necessary result of tribulation, that the afflicted should profit by it. It depends upon the light in which the sufferer views it, the spirit in which he accepts it, whether affliction is or is not a discipline of good. It must be a fellowship with Christ to be serviceable to so high an end; and the teaching must be that of the Spirit of God. Consider the steps of the process.
1. "Tribulation, worketh patience. " This assertion would be contested by many, who are made impatient by this experience. Those who see much of their fellow-creatures know that there are many cases in which affliction produces fretfulness and moroseness, which grow as the affliction is protracted. Yet in how many instances is this teaching of the text verified! The naturally impetuous, hasty, wilful spirit is humbled, subdued, and curbed. In suffering, or in a position where it is necessary to contend with unreasonable men, or amidst many disappointments, there may be acquired a habit of self-command and self-restraint, which may both tend to personal happiness and may naturally increase influence over others. By "patience" here is to be understood something more than passive, quiet suffering; endurance and constancy are intended. The patient man is not he who lies down discouraged under difficulties, but the man who holds on his way with cheerful resolution and perseverance. Christian! you are called to patient continuance in well-doing.
2. Patience worketh experience; " or, as in the Revised Version, probation, or, as in the "Speaker"s Commentary," approval. The man who endures affliction is put to the proof, is tested. And this is a true and scriptural view of temptation. "Blessed is the man that endureth temptation: for when he hath been approved, he shall receive the crown of life." The sword is bent to the utmost to prove the temper of the steel; the gun is heavily charged to prove the strength and soundness of the metal; the precious ore is cast into the furnace to separate the gold from the dross; the wheat is threshed that the flail may, by the literal "tribulation," prove that there is grain as well as straw. So the good man is placed by a wise Providence in circumstances which bring out what there is in him, which give him occasion to call upon the Lord for help and guidance and deliverance. So far from calamity being a sign of God"s displeasure, let the afflicted be reminded, for their consolation, that Scripture represents human trouble in a very different light. "Whom he loveth he chasteneth, and scourgeth every son whom he receiveth." Call to mind the experience of the saints of old. Daniel is an example of a man who was tried and proved, and who was shown by his afflictions and persecutions to be a true and faithful servant of Jehovah. Paul himself led a life of labour, hardship, suffering, harassment, and sorrow; but by Divine grace he was thereby made strong for service, quick to sympathize. The story of every good man"s life, if truly told, will teach the same lesson. The Lord does not willingly afflict; there is a purpose in tribulation; it is trial which brings out and confirms all Christian virtue.
3. Probation worketh hope." Here we seem to be getting out of the shadow into the sunshine. "Hope" is a pleasant, cheery word. Who has not known, in seasons of adversity and in moods of depression, what it is to be comforted by the sight of the rainbow which spans the cloud? The "strength-inspiring aid" of hope has often made the feeble mighty. Now, of all men, the Christian has most ground for hope. His expectation of direction, guardianship, and happiness rest, not upon the whisperings of fond imagination, or the promises of fallible fellow-men, but upon.the word of a faithful and unchanging God. "Hope thou in God!" is the counsel religion offers to the downcast and the sad. Such hope as is based upon the Divine character, as is directed towards objects guaranteed by Divine assurances, is indeed "an anchor unto the soul." Trial may be a bitter medicine; but it works a wondrous, and sometimes a speedy and a perfect, cure for spiritual ills. Probation may seem a harsh, unkindly soil; but the crop of hope it bears proves its adaptation and fertility. There have been persons who in prosperity have known little of the brightness of the Christian"s hope, who have then been slow to look upwards to the sunlit hills, but whom adversity has benignly taught to turn their eyes away from things seen and temporal to things unseen and eternal. Hope may be despised by the worldly-wise and sensual; but it is a Christian grace in which the Lord of our life takes pleasure, and by which he urges the travellers onwards upon the road which leads to the blessed vision of himself.
4. Hope maketh not ashamed. " A common expression in Scripture. Men often cherish expectations which are never fulfilled, and these so disappointed are said to be put to shame; they have built on a sandy foundation, and in the storm of trial the edifice they have reared is swept away, and, as they gaze upon the wreck and ruin, they are overwhelmed with shame. But those who have hoped in the Lord, and trusted in his Word, shall never be ashamed or confounded, world without end. The apostle may be understood to say, Hope worketh realization. " Not that the hope fulfils itself; but that God, in his wisdom and love, fulfils it. We are all, in many respects, in the position of those that hope that hope in the Lord. We are pilgrims, and we look for a city. We are warriors, and we lock for victory. We are labourers, and we look for rest. We are afflicted, and we look for relief and release. We are on earth, and we look for heaven. "If we hope for that we see not, then do we with patience wait for it." The best and purest hopes of the follower of Jesus, those which he inspires and warrants, those which respect himself, shall all be realized. We shall see our Saviour "as he is." We shall be "like him." We shall "serve him day and night in his temple" We shall be "ever with the Lord." Such hopes as these will not unfit us for the common duties of life; they will assist us to discharge those duties with diligence and cheerfulness. Yet, being sons, we are heirs; and the blessedness of inheritance casts the radiant light of heaven upon our earthly lot.
III WE ARE HERE REMINDED OF THE DUTY AND PRIVILEGE OF REJOICING. In the previous verse the apostle has summoned us to "rejoice in hope of the glory of God." This seems natural enough; but it does sound strangely to hear him add here, "Let us also rejoice in our tribulations"! This is paradoxical, against all ordinary notions of what is fitting. Yet it is just. If we have followed the steps of that process of discipline here described by St. Paul, we must see that it is reasonable enough that he should admonish us to rejoice in those experiences of human life which Divine providence so wisely and graciously overrules for our spiritual and eternal good. Paul himself exemplified his own lesson. When he and Silas were in prison at Philippi, with their feet in the stocks, at midnight they sang praises to God, and the prisoners heard them. When imprisoned in Rome, he could write, "Rejoice in the Lord alway: again I will say, Rejoice!" We may rejoice in tribulation, because it is the appointment of our heavenly Father. Our joy should be in our Father"s will; for he will support and sustain under the burden which he has imposed. We may rejoice in tribulation, because we are Christ"s people, and we share his lot when we suffer with and for him. "Insomuch," says Peter, "as ye are partakers of Christ"s sufferings, rejoice; that at the revelation of his glory also ye may rejoice with exceeding joy." "If we suffer with him, we shall also reign with him." We may rejoice in tribulation also, because we are assured that the patient and submissive shall, by the help of God"s Spirit, reap the harvest of spiritual profit and eternal life. "I reckon," says the apostle, "that the sufferings of this present life are not worthy to be compared with the glory which shall be revealed in or, "unto us.
APPLICATION. The tribulations of life are common to all. But the profit of tribulation is for those only who receive Divine discipline in submission, and with faith in a Father"s wisdom and love. Sad is the position of those who have to endure the trials of life without the support of God"s love, or the prospect of eternal glory!
HOMILIES BY S.R. ALDRIDGE Ver. 2. A state of privilege.
It seems as if the apostle was delighted to turn from demonstrations of the credibility of the gospel plan to consider the happiness of those who had embraced it and were realizing its privileges. His pen glows as he exhorts himself and his readers to taste the full comforts of the condition of reconciliation towards God. When our right to the estate is challenged, we may spend time in examining the title-deeds and verifying our claims; but in general it is healthier and more satisfactory to settle down calmly on the property and reap the benefit of its treasures. Let us confidently enter the dwelling which Divine love has secured us, and not always stay justifying the scheme of its foundation and architecture.
I THE PALACE INTO WHICH WE ARE ADMITTED. It is a house of grace where the favour of God is enjoyed, and which is furnished from the stores of Divine goodness. He saw the needs of his creatures, pitied their forlorn wretchedness, would shelter them from the storm, and lavish on them proofs of kindness. Peace reigns there, a sense of blissful security. Every article of furniture, every picture on the walls, every robe worn, every meal provided, speaks of Divine mercy, of a changed attitude towards those received within the sacred precincts. It is a permanent home, which we enter to go out no more for ever. Grace alters not, is not fickle; therefore "we stand" (abide) therein without fear of one day losing our situation from the arbitrariness of the Master.
II THE GATE OF ENTRANCE. "Through our Lord Jesus Christ." He is "the Door of the sheep," a living Way to the holiest of all. He is our introduction ("access") to the court of the King. His work of mercy and righteousness has availed to procure free entry into the inheritance. The cherubim and flaming sword no longer bar the way to the Paradise of God. Man"s own moral power availed naught to force a way into the temple. He could make no breach in the walls of governmental justice.
III THE ONLY PASSPORT REQUIRED. "By faith" we enter into this state of grace. The inquiry at the gate is, "Dost thou believe on the Son of God?" To trust in Christ is to feel the longing for a renewed heart, for Divine forgiveness, and to recognize in him "the Way, the Truth, and the Life." Scepticism may keep men at a distance, unbelief may turn the back upon the mansion, timid doubt may remain gazing wistfully at the portico, but the believer is impelled to march humbly yet fearlessly through the appointed entrance into the halls of light and song.
IV THE JOY OF THE INMATES. They are filled with exultation because of their present condition; they are already encompassed with so many marks of Divine favour. They are constantly finding new beauties in the construction of the rooms, and new evidences of Divine skill, forethought, and love. But they know that this is but the foretaste of further bliss; they triumph in the expectation of coming glory. They have the promise and many a sign of a fuller revealing of the character and purpose of God. He comes nearer to his guests, till at last the veil of sense shall be removed, and every occupant of the palace be enwrapped in the radiance of his throne. All the dust of the journey to the home, every vestige of defilement, vanishes from the pilgrims crowned with the brightness of God"s heavenly presence. S.R.A.
The Pulpit Commentary (1880–1919), ed. H.D.M. Spence-Jones & Joseph S. Exell — public domain. Text from a community e-Sword module.
The Biblical Illustrator 1887 · Public Domain On vv2–5 By whom also we have access by faith into…
Rom_5:2
By whom also we have access by faith into this grace wherein we stand.
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Access to God
There are many locks in my house and all with different keys, but I have one master key which opens all. So the Lord has many treasuries and secrets all shut up from carnal minds with locks which they cannot open; but he who walks in fellowship with Jesus possesses the master key which will admit him to all the blessings of the covenant--yea, to the very heart of God. Through the Well-beloved we have access to God, to heaven, to every secret of the Lord. (C. H. Spurgeon.)
The state of grace
In this chapter St. Paul describes the riches of Divine grace--how free, full, and comprehensive is the gift of God. Now the grace of God is not merely nominal, it is operative and communicative. Sometimes God may show His almighty power, as when He creates a system of worlds; sometimes His wisdom, as when He furnishes and adorns a planet; sometimes His goodness in the abundant favours which he confers upon His creatures. But He displays His grace to the ruined family of mankind. Here the kindness of God has full play. This grace wherein we stand denotes a state in which we remain to dwell amidst its privileges. It is not a casual or evanescent feeling, but a settled condition wrought for us and in us by the abounding mercy of the Lord. This is a state of--
I. Peace and favour with God (Rom_5:1). When God justifies the ungodly, and withdraws the sentence of condemnation, the fear of wrath is removed, and heartfelt peace necessarily succeeds to gloomy apprehension. Peace is the first blessing promised by Christ to the returning sinner, and it is a great one. A soul at peace with the universe, above, around, and before it, is in an enviable state of existence!
II. Divine influence. Grace is often used to express the work of the Holy Spirit. When you first believed and entered the kingdom of grace, the Holy Ghost, with royal finger, touched your soul, and raised it from the death of sin to a life of righteousness. He continues His work of grace in the believer. He loves to form the soul anew, to beautify and adorn it with the image of the heavenly.
III. Communion with God (Eph_2:18). It is no mean privilege for a needy creature to have free and ready access to the Giver of all good; to have the liberty of ransacking the storehouse of grace. There is a temple of prayer in the land of grace. We know not if there be another such in the universe. There is none in the regions of sin. God heareth not [wilful] sinners. True, there is a porch of mercy to which the penitent may flee, and where the sighing of a broken heart will be heard by God; and this porch communicates with the temple of salvation through the door which is Christ Jesus. But until you reach the gate of repentance, you may stretch out your hands to heaven in vain. In the new Jerusalem, John saw no temple. Heaven is a place of praise, not of prayer. So we are permitted to pray upon earth. This is an amazing privilege which is too little appreciated, and can never be fully estimated.
IV. Joyous anticipation. We rejoice in hope of the glory of God. This full assurance of hope is the privilege of the experienced Christian in whom grace has produced its ripe fruits. Hope is the daughter of faith. Faith is the victory over the world, hope over death. It is the Christian warriors privilege. When his spiritual hope is matured, it is a faculty of no little potency. The believer now feels the powers of the world to come--a Divine life which is ever aspiring towards its native heaven. (R. M. Macbriar, M. A.)
Further fruits of justification
Peace is only the first link of a golden chain which binds us to the throne of God. It is the first gem out of heavens cabinet, the first fruit of the tree of life, the first taste of the water of life. Peace comes to the forgiven sinner like a radiant angel from the skies; but she brings along with her a happy troop of young sisters, every one of whom is his constant companion from the wicket-gate to the crystal battlements. Note--
I. The believers permanent state of grace.
1. The privilege of being specially loved of God. This love is that of a father to his children (Joh_1:12; Gal_4:4-5; Jam_1:18; Jer_31:3). The end at which God aims in His treatment of His children is to bring them to glory (Heb_2:10). But first they have to be fitted for it (Col_1:12). And therefore it is Gods present business to purify them and make them perfect in holiness and love. Whom He justifies, them He also sanctifies. Into this grace we are introduced by faith. And it is by faith we stand in it.
2. The constant privilege of prayer. Those who are justified have at all times freedom of access to the throne of grace. They are encouraged to come to it boldly (Heb_4:16; Php_4:6); if rebuked at all, it is because they do not pray enough, or because they do not expect sufficiently large returns (Joh_4:24). Prayer opens the armoury of God; it is the key which unlocks the promises and makes them ours. It makes the weak worm, Jacob, omnipotent. By it we link our little skiff to the great ark of Jehovahs purposes and promises, and thus are we borne triumphantly across lifes billowy sea to the heavenly Ararat of rest. It is by Christ that we have such access into this grace wherein we stand (Eph_2:18; Eph_3:12).
3. The privilege of being Gods instruments in fulfilling His great purposes in the world. We are the Church of the living God, endowed with a queenly authority and power. The Church is the Lambs bride. It is the heritage, the house, and the city of God. It is the pillar of the truth. It is the open mirror of Jehovahs most glorious attributes (Eph_3:10). And yet it is into this grace that we obtain access through our Lord Jesus Christ, when we are justified by faith.
II. The believers joyful hope concerning the future.
1. Its object.
(1) Glory is a word which primarily denotes clearness and brightness. Hence, we speak of the glory of the sun, moon, and stars, while one star differeth from another star in glory. Here we read of the Glory of God. On earth this glory is dimmed and obscured; in hell it is never beheld; while heaven is a realm of perfect light, and in this God dwells (1Ti_6:15-16). For such glory to be revealed to us now, like Saul of Tarsus, we should afterwards be unable to see, unless, indeed, we were instantly destroyed by the brightness of His appearing. Now let us regard the Christians hope of glory under this aspect. There are creeping things which can only live in darkness; others, a little superior, thrive best in twilight; and others which can live in misty, northern climes, while they would speedily perish under a bright, southern sky. Man, the chief and head of terrene existences, can bask with delight in the most brilliant earthly sunshine. But angels, higher still, can live amid the unscreened splendours of the heavenly world. Now the prospect which we, as Christians, have is of one day joining their bright hosts, feeling at home in that most intense radiance. But how great a change must pass over us before we are fitted for that sphere I We must possess spiritual bodies (see Col_3:4; 1Jn_3:2; Php_3:21).
(2) But Gods glory must be viewed in a moral aspect, as that of wisdom, holiness, rectitude, and truth, mingled with mercy and love. There is a glory in Gods character which, the more we discern, the more we must admire it; in His law, which is the exact counterpart and transcript of His character; in His government of all intelligent creatures, and brightest of all in Christ. This glory we hope to see and to share. Here we see it in part, and know it in part. But hereafter, we shall see it in its fullest splendour. Our moral faculties will be purified, quickened, and enlarged, while our acquaintance with the ways and works of God will be corrected and expanded. We shall be holy, even as He is holy, and do His will as angels do it now (Psa_17:15).
(3) There is also a circumstantial glory--not the glory which belongs intrinsically to God, but the extraneous glory which He bestows upon His people. We cannot but prepare for some determinate place as the scene of our immortal life (Joh_14:2-3; 1Co_2:9). We cannot doubt, however, that heaven will be a domain of perfect happiness and beauty worthy of its Maker; it will contain everything which can minister to the enjoyment of holy and immortal creatures (Rev_7:16-17).
2. Its nature. To hope for it is--
(1) To believe in its existence and certain attainment; and this we do, because it is expressly promised by Him who cannot lie.
(2) To desire it, and long for it (2Co_5:4).
3. This hope, accordingly, becomes a source of pleasure and joy to us. (T. G. Horton.)
And rejoice in hope of the glory of God.--
The glory of God
Is an eternal mystery which the heart of man cannot yet conceive, but of which Holy Scripture gives here and there short glimpses. Like the righteousness, the truth and the life of God (Eph_4:18), it has its hidden source in the Father, it is manifested in the Son, it is reflected in man (Joh_17:22). Of this glory man was from the first designed to partake (1Co_11:7), but by sin all men come short or suffer loss of it (Rom_3:23); its restoration is wrought by the Spirit revealing and imparting the glory of Christ (2Co_3:18). In presenting this glory as an object of the believers hope, the apostle points to its future perfection in the glorification of our whole nature, body, soul, and spirit. The glory in which man will be thus transfigured will be the glory of God, even as the sunshine resting upon earth is still the light of heaven; it will be an everlasting glory, just because man will dwell forever in the light of Gods countenance. (Archdn. Gifford.)
Hope of glory
I. What constitutes that glory in the hope of which the apostle rejoiced? The word glory applied to God sometimes denotes that splendour with which He often clothed Himself when He made His appearance to the ancient saints; sometimes that sublime display of Gods natural attributes, which He has made in the creation; sometimes a particular attribute of the Deity. It is in general used, however, to denote any signal or triumphant display of the Divine attributes as made towards men. In its primary and highest sense it is the full, cloudless, and combined display of the perfections of the Godhead, as in the text.
1. The display of this glory is reserved for the future world. But it is not to be imagined that any change is to pass upon the essential divinity of the Godhead. Jehovah is the perfection of beauty, yesterday, today, and forever; only interposing mediums will be removed, and the capacity of the creature elevated. This is accomplished for the soul at death; for the body at the resurrection. Think not, therefore, that God is to reveal His glory by descending to us. The revelation will be made by elevating us to Himself. If we are to behold this glory with a seraphs ecstasy, we shall gaze upon it with a seraphs eye.
2. It is to consist in the displays which God will make of Himself. The company of saints and angels may indeed increase immensely the bliss of heaven. But what are they without God? The glory in which they will shine is but a reflection from that embodied effulgence which emanates from the perfections of the Eternal Three. It is chiefly to be disclosed through the Church, and Jesus Christ is its Head and Redeemer. He has received this appointment; and, from the Father, glory has been given Him, which, in answer to His own prayer, His saints shall behold. But in what way will He execute it? The manifold wisdom of God is to be exhibited through the Church, unto principalities and powers in the heavenly places. The absolute riches of His glory He has determined to display through the vessels of mercy, which He had afore prepared unto glory. Where in the universe besides could He have found materials for erecting a monument so splendid, durable, and great, to His matchless love and mercy, as in these poor guilty beings which He thus redeems and exalts. Having gathered His saints into their everlasting rest, and secured a complete triumph over the last enemy, the Redeemer will now sit down in the midst of the throne, encircled with a bow of glory, in sight like unto an emerald. Then the sound of innumerable voices will break upon the ear of heaven, Worthy is the Lamb to receive glory.
II. What is the hope of glory and how does it become a foundation of joy to the believer? It is the hope of a sinner founded in the atonement of it, and it gives to the believer a prospective possession of the glory that is to be revealed.
1. There is, however, a hope that fastens upon the same blessed inheritance which yet is not the Christians. Of this kind the world is full. How are they to be distinguished from each other?
(1) Look at their origin. The rock of ages, Jesus Christ, is here placed as a broad and deep substratum on which the hope of glory is built. Other foundation can no man lay than that is laid, and safely build upon it this animating hope. It is the immediate result of justification by faith. The impenitent sinners hope, on the contrary, is built upon the sand.
(2) But these hopes differ not less in their legitimate effects upon the heart. That of the Christian is, in its very nature, purifying (1Jn_3:3). It is a hope, too, through which the love of God is shed abroad in the heart by the Holy Ghost. In this way it transforms the soul into the very image of its Maker, and thus prepares it for the inheritance of the saints in light. The hope of the sinner, however, is not only incompatible with the undisturbed repose of every sin, but it is the very aliment on which these plants of death are nourished.
(3) As to the different results of these hopes, I need only say the one is like the giving up of the ghost when God takes away the soul--while the other, on the same event, wilt be like the breaking of a summers morning. The one terminates in endless day, the other in eternal night; the one in heaven, the other in hell.
2. The hope renders the possession prospective. But what is intended by possession? The glory of Gods kingdom is to be ours in a sense vastly higher than anything we are said to possess in the present life. In the terrestrial sense nothing becomes completely ours till every foreign claim is extinguished. In the heavenly, everything becomes ours by extinguishing our own. In the present world our right to possession is founded in the sacrifice we have made or the equivalent we have rendered. In the other, the blood of the Cross will seal it to us entire, with no sacrifice of our own, no equivalent given. Here we struggle for possession that we may not be dependent. There we shall surrender all, that our dependence may be complete. Conclusion:
1. The saints have ample occasion to rejoice with joy unspeakable and full of glory. Are you at present the subjects of affliction? I reckon that the sufferings of this present time are not worthy to be compared with the glory that shall be revealed in you.
2. God forbid that in the animating prospect which the heavenly inheritance presents, any of you should be disposed at present to glory save in the Cross of our Lord Jesus Christ. (J. W. Adams, D. D.)
Hope of the glory of God a source of joy to His people
I. The glory of God. Glory signifies something splendid, dazzling, overwhelming. The term is misapplied to things mean and unworthy, but is always most rightly applied to anything pertaining to God. The meanest labour of His hands is more deserving of the term than the greatest works of men. Even Solomon, in all his glory, was not arrayed like one of these. The glory of God means--
1. God Himself. Moses prayed, I beseech thee, show me Thy glory, that is, Reveal Thyself more fully to me. It would have been well if Gods answer had repressed all similar curiosity. No man can see Him personally and live. We could not sustain the vision, even were we physically capable of it. But when we have laid aside all that is mortal, and put on immortality, we shall see Him as He is.
2. The glory of God which is beheld in His works. The heavens declare the glory of God. And what splendours do these heavens exhibit! The most capacious mind may well quail in its effort to comprehend the glory of the infinite Creator, which they both reveal and conceal. We require to be a God to comprehend all of God which His works contain. And if the works of God be so glorious, what must Himself be?
3. The glory which appears in Gods ways and dealings with us in providence. We may take three views of this and call it a natural providence, a judicial providence, and a gracious providence. By the first, He provides for all creatures, according to their capacities and necessities; by the second, He holds us accountable to Himself, and takes cognisance of our hearts and lives; and by the third, He is reconciling us to Himself, in Jesus Christ, and dispensing mercy and grace to all who ask them at His hands. And how gloriously does He act in all these respects!
4. The perfect purity and bliss which await the godly in heaven.
(1) Their state is glorious. What was the glory of Eden, of Sinai, of Zion, of Tabor, compared with this! No sin, disease, pain, death.
(2) Their society is glorious. If it was good to be present when Moses, Elijah, and Christ conversed, what must the intimacies of heaven afford?
(3) Their employments are glorious. Think of being forever engaged in contemplating, loving, adoring, and serving God! of ever receiving and performing reciprocations of level.
(4) Their prospects are glorious. The infinite and various excellences of God will be ever affording new discoveries; the river of their bliss will increase as it roils; that the sun of their heaven will still brighten as He shines; and that their state of glory will ever admit of a far more exceeding and an eternal weight of glory.
II. The joy which the hope of the glory of God affords.
1. They are to possess it. It is theirs, as Canaan was the inheritance of the descendants of the patriarchs. It is given to them by a covenant never to be broken. It is the chief part of the eternal redemption procured for them by the Redeemer. It is that to which they receive a title in their justification, to which they are begotten again by the Holy Spirit, for which they are sanctified, preserved, and fitted in this life.
2. Of this ultimate possession they have now a hope--a good hope through grace. And their hope maketh not ashamed, and is an anchor of their souls, sure and steadfast, entering into the things within the veil. We see the powerful influence of this hope. With what firmness and composure does many a good man endure calamity and meet death! Such a person may be likened to a mariner, who, while prosecuting his long and dangerous voyage, has the eye of his mind fixed on the desired haven: or he is like an heir of some vast estate, looking forward, during his minority, to the period when he shall receive his property.
3. This hope begets joy in the bosom of its possessors.
(1) The foundation of it is a cause of joy. It does not rest upon merits, sacraments, etc., but upon the foundation which God has laid in Zion, and other foundation can no man lay. Everything besides is as shifting sand, fleeting air, or a bursting bubble.
(2) Its attendant principles occasion joy. It is one of a class of graces which are the fruits of the Spirit.
(3) Its effects minister, joy. It is not an uninfluential grace, but is ever active, and all its influence is for holiness. A genuine hope and allowed sin cannot co-exist in the same person.
(4) Its certainty yields joy; other hopes may and do fail. We have seen the candidate for wealth, power, fame, pleasure, flushed with hope, only to become the victim of disappointment and mortification!
(5) Its object gives joy--the glory of God in heaven. In other things, the ultimate enjoyment may not equal our present hope of it; but here realisation will infinitely sustain our largest and most sanguine hope. We shall find that notwithstanding all that is written in the Scriptures of this glory, all the glimpses and tastes we may have of it now, the half has not been known. Conclusion:
1. How little we know at present of the glory of God! Who can find Him out to perfection? And a cloud rests upon His works. His providence, too, is all beyond our comprehension. The difficulties do not diminish if we think of Divine revelation; in which we have certain facts stated, but the circumstances of many of these facts are not explained. And then how dense is the veil which conceals the world of spirits from our view! And in all these things the mere philosopher has little advantage over the clown. But the Christian has the advantage of faith; what he knows not now he shall know hereafter.
2. Is our hope for eternity the hope of the gospel and the real Christian? Self-deception and vain pretensions are common in the world and in the Church. We can hardly meet with a person who does not hope to go to heaven when he dies. But, in thousands of instances, how vain is the hope! Without holiness no man shall see the Lord. Here is a sure test by which to ascertain the genuineness of our hope.
3. The subject is well fitted to relieve the present obscurity, and to mitigate the present sorrows of the people of God. We shall not always remain under a cloud and in trouble. A day of revelation is approaching when we shall shine as the sun in the kingdom of our Father, and when we shall no more hang our harps upon the willows, but retain them, ever strung and attuned to the songs of immortality. (James Davies.)
The hope of heaven
Shall we sink or falter by the way, when we know that we are journeying to a land of everlasting rest, and shall soon reach our eternal home? Shall the dark valley of death affright us, when we see beyond it the fields of immortality smiling in the verdure of eternal spring? Destined as we are for heaven, shall we grieve or murmur that the earth is not found to be a suitable resting place for immortal beings, and that God checks every tendency to rest here, by sharp afflictions and severe disappointment? God forbid! heaven, seen even in the distance, should allure us onwards, and its glorious light should cast a cheering ray over the darkest passages of life. Nay, not only should the hope of heaven prevent us from complaining of the afflictions of life, but the thought that these afflictions are even now preparing us for that blessed state, that they are ordained as necessary and useful means of discipline to promote our progress towards it; that they are the furnace by which the dross is to be purged away, and the pure ore fitted for the Masters use in the upper sanctuary, should reconcile us to resigned submission, should make us grateful, that such discipline being needful, it has not been withheld, and to pray earnestly that it may be so blessed for our use as that we shall, in due time, be presented faultless and blameless before the presence of Gods glory, with exceeding joy. (James Buchanan.)
The future vision of God
This vision of God will constitute the blessedness or the misery of vision the future world, and since only like can know like, as Trench has said, Every advance in a holy life is a polishing of the mirror that it may reflect distinctly the Divine image; a purging of the eye that it may see more clearly the Divine glory; an enlarging of the vessel that it may receive more amply of the Divine fulness.
The glory of the Creator
Baron Von Canitz, a German nobleman, who lived in the latter half of the seventeenth century, was distinguished both for talent and intense religiousness of spirit. When the dawn broke into his sick chamber on the last morning of life he desired to be removed to the window, and once more behold the rising sun. After a time he broke forth in the following language, Oh, if the appearance of this earthly and created thing is so beautiful and so quickening, how much more shall I be enraptured at the sight of the unspeakable glory of the Creator Himself!
The Biblical Illustrator, edited by Joseph S. Exell (c. 1880s–1900s) — public domain. Text from a community e-Sword module.
B. W. Johnson 1891 · Public Domain On vv2–5 2. By whom also we have access by faith…
2. By whom also we have access by faith into this grace. Two things are essential before one can enter into the state of peace (“grace”): (1) Christ, our Mediator; (2) a living faith in him. Having entered into this covenant relation, we can rejoice in hope of enjoying the glory of God in heaven.
B. W. Johnson's The People's New Testament with Notes (1889–1891) — public domain. Electronic text from the Christian Classics Ethereal Library (CCEL) ThML edition.
The Preacher's Complete Homiletical Commentary 1892 · Public Domain On v5 Rom_5:5.—The love of God has been poured forth as…
CRITICAL NOTES
Rom_5:5.—The love of God has been poured forth as in a stream (Wordsworth).
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MAIN HOMILETICS OF THE PARAGRAPH.—Rom_5:5
A hope without shame.—The Christian never finds this world to be his rest. But he has a hope full of immortality. This enlightens his darkness and alleviates his sorrow. Like a helmet, it guards in the day of battle; like an anchor, it secures in the storms of adversity; like a pleasing companion, it travels with him through all the tediousness of the world, and reminds him of the rest that remains for the people of God. Let us consider the excellency and the evidence of this hope. Let us I. Show how it preserves from shame; and II. Ascertain its connection with the love of God.
I. We may take three views of this hope, and oppose it to the hope of the worldling, of the Pharisee, and of the antinomian. Hope causes shame by the insufficiency of its object—and this is the hope of the worldling; by the weakness of its foundation—and this is the hope of the Pharisee; by the falseness of its warrant—and this is the hope of the antinomian. The hope of the Christian has the noblest object, the surest foundation, the clearest warrant; and thus it maketh not ashamed.
1. Hope may cause shame by the insufficiency of its object. Ofttimes men of the world never reach the mark; and when they do, they are disappointed. What they gain does not indemnify for the sacrifices they have made.
“In vain we seek a heaven below the sky:
The world has false but flattering charms;
Its distant joys show big in our esteem,
But lessen still as they draw near the eye;
In our embrace the visions die;
And when we grasp the airy forms,
We lose the pleasing dream.”
Look forward and ask, What does the worldling think as he lays down all his honours, all his riches, on this side of the grave? What does Alexander now think of his bloody trophies? What does Herod now think of killing James and condemning Peter because “it pleased the people”? What does Judas think of his thirty pieces of silver? The crowned votaries of the world seem to be happy, and are envied; but it is only by the foolish and ignorant who know them not. Sometimes they say, We are not happy, and it is not in the power of these things to satisfy our desires. On this dark ground we bring forward the Christian to advantage. The object of his hope is the greatest good a creature can possess. When we propose this hope we exclude every evil we feel or fear. Think of “the house not made with hands,” etc., and the “innumerable company of angels” as the objects of his hope—the blessed hope of being like Christ and dwelling with Him evermore. The Christian need not shrink from a comparison with philosophers, princes, heroes. He leads a sublime life, and takes a grander aim. If shame could enter heaven, he would be ashamed to think that the objects of this hope engrossed so little of his attention.
2. Hope may cause shame by the weakness of its foundation. The Pharisee places dependence on his own works or his own worthiness. He derives his encouragement from negative qualities, from comparison of himself with others, from the number of his performances. Parable of the Pharisee. If his works were spiritual and holy, they need not afford a ground of dependence, being only a part of the building, and not the foundation. They may furnish evidence, but cannot give a title. The indulgence of such a hope is offensive to God. The man who seeks salvation by the works of the law, and not by faith of Jesus Christ, reflects upon God’s wisdom as having been employed in a needless trifle. The Pharisee frustrates the grace of God and makes Jesus Christ to be dead in vain. Thus the Pharisee’s hope will be found like a spider’s web, curiously wrought, but easily destroyed. The basis being too weak, the superstructure falls and crushes the offender. The humbled sinner asks, How shall a man be just before God? The Bible answers, “The Son of man is come to seek and to save that which was lost.” “He is the end of the law of righteousness to every one that believeth.” This attracts. He says, Christ is the door, by Him I will enter; Christ is the foundation, on this I will build: I desire no other. This hope is as firm as the truth of God and the all-sufficiency of the Saviour can make it. See the Christian advancing to the throne of God. “Who is he that condemneth? It is Christ that died.” The Christian is marked with the blood of sprinkling.
3. Hope may cause shame by the falseness of its warrant. Any hope which does not purify is false. Every expectation of heaven which those entertain who are leading immoral lives, whatever be their knowledge or their creed, is a mere fancy. A man, with all his ignorance, may as well persuade himself that he is the greatest philosopher; or, with all his indigence, may as rationally conclude that he is possessed of all the wealth of the Indies, as a man may imagine that he is on the way to heaven while he is a stranger to “newness of life”; for “without holiness no man shall see the Lord.” Indeed, such a man, if he were in heaven, would not be in a beatific state. What warrant have you that heaven is your home? What reason are you able to give of the hope that is in you? The only satisfactory one is that given by the apostle. Therefore consider:—
II. “Because the love of God is shed abroad in our hearts by the Holy Ghost, which is given unto us.”—
1. This love is the proof of the divine regard, for the affection is mutual. “We love Him because He first loved us.” And what can we desire more than to know that we are beloved of God?
2. This love marks the characters for whom this happiness is reserved. Who are authorised to claim the promise of eternal life? Those who seek to please and serve God. “We know that all things work together for good to them that love God.”
3. This love qualifies for the glory which shall be revealed. The happiness of the future state is derived from the presence of God. What, then, can prepare for it but the love of God? Love must make us delight in each other’s company. By loving God we are prepared for a happiness which is found only in Him.
4. This love is the foretaste of future happiness. We take the likeness of the excellency we contemplate, and are exalted into the perfection we adore. If our love be fixed on God, we shall become divine and heavenly. Oh the comforts of this love! They are heaven come down to earth. Heaven is the sphere of love. The heaven of love must be in us before we are in heaven. We attain the full assurance of hope neither by dreams, nor visions, nor sudden suggestions, nor by an inexplicable consciousness, but by keeping ourselves in the love of God, and abounding therein more and more.—W. Jay.
SUGGESTIVE COMMENTS ON Rom_5:5
“And hope maketh not ashamed.”—The hope which true believers entertain, founded on the very nature of pious exercises, shall never disappoint them (Psa_22:5). The ground of this assurance, however, is not the strength of our purpose or confidence in our goodness, but the love of God. The latter clause of the verse assigns the reason why the Christian’s hope shall not be found delusive: it is because “the love of God is shed abroad in our hearts by the Holy Ghost which is given unto us.” The love of God is His love to us, and not ours to Him, as appears from the following verses, in which the apostle illustrates the greatness and freeness of this love by a reference to the unworthiness of its objects. To “shed abroad” is to communicate abundantly, and hence to evince clearly (Act_2:17; Act_10:45; Tit_3:6). This manifestation of divine love is not any external revelation of it in the works of providence, or even in redemption, but it is “in our hearts.” And this inward persuasion that we are the objects of the love of God is not the mere result of the examination of evidence, nor is it a vain illusion, but it is produced by the Holy Ghost: “The Spirit itself beareth witness with our spirit, that we are the children of God” (Rom_8:16; 2Co_1:21-22; Eph_1:13-14). As, however, the Spirit never contradicts Himself, He never bears witness that “the children of the devil” are the children of God—that is, that the unholy, the disobedient, the proud, or the malicious are the objects of the divine favour. Any reference, therefore, by the immoral to the witness of the Spirit in their favour must be vain and delusive.—Hodge.
God’s love in the heart.—These words stand at the end of a list of blessings which come to the Christian simply by his faith. See context, Rom_5:1-5. “The love of God” spoken of in the text is God’s love to us, not our love to God. In Rom_8:39 it is called “the love of God in Jesus Christ.” Similarly is it described in the context (Rom_5:6-8). This love the text declares is “shed abroad” in the believer’s heart “by the Holy Ghost which is given unto” him. Inquire how or in what particulars this is so.
I. Because the Holy Ghost is given to believers on the exercise of their faith to work this work within them.—For Christ, by His atoning work, procured the Holy Spirit for men.
II. It is the work of the Holy Ghost thus given to open to us the love of God.—Nothing but the Holy Ghost can disclose to us the love of God at the first. Nothing else does. Hence so many read and hear of the love of God, and yet do not apprehend it. But the Holy Spirit coming to the believer as described, “takes of the things of Christ,” and therein shows to him the love of the Father (see Joh_16:13-14). The Holy Spirit shows thus the wonderfulness, the extent, heights, depths, lengths, breadths, of the love of God in Christ, and its unchangeableness (see context, Rom_5:6-8, and Rom_8:35-39).
III. The Holy Ghost thus given carries the love of God beyond our mere intellect into our inmost nature.—We are more than intellect. In our best nature we are “heart.” To this the Holy Spirit can penetrate—no other power like it—and can pervade and fill and possess the whole with the wonderful infinite love of God in Christ. Every faculty and power of holy emotion in the soul can thus be moved and stirred, and fresh faculty and power of holy emotion can thus be given. Thus the love of God is “shed abroad” or poureth forth “in our hearts.” So oil poured into a vessel, whatever the character of the vessel, finds its way into every part, and even permeates through the vessel itself. So incense shed forth in a room fills every part of it with its fragrance, which often extends beyond. So the breath we breathe from the fresh morning air penetrates in its effects to our very flesh and blood and bones, and is seen in the glow of our health, in the lightness of our step, and in the flash and brightness of the eye. Do we know the love of God? and is it “shed abroad in our hearts”? If so, then to what extent do we know it?—John Bennett.
Hope as a consoler.—Hope is the sweetest friend that ever kept a distressed soul company; it beguiles the tediousness of the way, all the miseries of our pilgrimage.
“Jam mala finissem letho; sed credula vitam
Spes fovet, et melius cras fore semper ait.”
Therefore, Dum spiro spero, said the heathen; but Dum exspiro spero, says the Christian. The one, Whilst I live I hope; the other also, When I die I hope. So Job, “I will hope in Thee, though Thou killest me.” It tells the soul such sweet stories of the succeeding joys; what comforts there be in heaven; what peace, what joy, what triumphs, marriage songs, and hallelujahs there are in that country whither she is travelling, that she goes merrily away with her present burden.—Adams.
ILLUSTRATIONS TO CHAPTER 5
Rom_5:5. Dying of weariness.—As life goes on most people begin to feel that the word “happy” has no light meaning. Sick of herself through very selfishness, the wife of the Grand Monarque, Louis XIV., thus spoke in her hour of death: “Do you not see that I am dying of weariness amidst a fortune that can scarcely be imagined? I have been young and pretty; I have tasted pleasure; I have been everywhere loved. In an age more advanced I have passed some years in the commerce of the mind; and I protest to you that all conditions leave a frightful void. I can endure no more; I wish only to die.” Here surely is an illustration of the words, “Whosoever will save his life shall lose it.”
Rom_5:5. “Don’t you find it dull?”—A little street waif was once taken to the house of a great lady, and the childish eyes that had to look so sharply after daily bread were dazzled by signs of splendour on every hand. “Can you get everything you want?” the child asked the mistress of the mansion. “Yes, I think so,” was the reply. “Can you buy anything you’d like to have?” The lady answered, “Yes”; and the child, who was of a meditative turn of mind, looked at her half pityingly, and said wonderingly, “Don’t you find it dull?” To the little keen mind, accustomed to live bird-like from day to day, and to rejoice over a better supply with the delight born of rarity, the aspect of continual plenty, and desires all gratified by possession, contained an idea of monotony that seemed almost wearisome. Many an owner of a well-filled purse has found life “dull,” and pronounced, in the midst of luxury, that all things are vanity.
The Preacher's Complete Homiletical Commentary (gen. ed. Joseph S. Exell; Funk & Wagnalls, c. 1892) — public domain (pre-1929). A full-Bible homiletical/sermon-outline anthology covering 65 of 66 books (2 John is absent from the source module). Text from a community e-Sword module.
William B. Godbey 1900 · Public Domain On vv2–5 2. “Through whom also we have access by faith…
SANCTIFICATION
2. “Through whom also we have access by faith into this grace in which we stand, and let us rejoice in the hope of the glory of God.” The pronoun “this” is emphatic in this verse, indicative of progress in the school of faith reaching terra firma, i. e., establishing grace where we hold our ground, no longer retrogressing nor wavering through unbelief, doubt having been eliminated and faith moving forward with the tread of a giant. Consequently we are again exhorted, not simply as in the preceding verse to have peace with God, but to “rejoice in hope of the glory of God,” as we have now climbed so high up the Delectable Mountains as to enjoy a conspicuous and inspiring view of the Celestial City, if we will look through the telescope of doubtless faith. The hortatory phase of these beautiful climaxes in the three first verses of this chapter does not appear in E. V., which has the indicative mood of these verbs, the original being in the subjunctive. The fact is, Paul is here leading us on and upward, beginning with clear Abrahamic justification by faith alone, and moving on into the richer and more glorious experience of entire sanctification, followed by the climacteric establishing graces of the Holy Spirit.
William B. Godbey, Commentary on the New Testament (1896–1900) — public domain. Text from a community e-Sword module.
Alexander MacLaren 1905 · Public Domain On vv2, 3, 5
Romans
THE SOURCES OF HOPE
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ACCESS INTO GRACE
Rom 5:2.
I may be allowed to begin with a word or two of explanation of the terms of this passage. Note then, especially, that also which sends us back to the previous clause, and tells us that our text adds something to what was spoken of there. What was spoken of there? ‘The peace of God’ which comes to a man by Jesus Christ through faith, the removal of enmity, and the declaration of righteousness. But that peace with God, which is the beginning of everything in the Christian view, is only the beginning, and there is much to follow. While, then, there is a progress clearly marked in the words of our text, and ‘access into this grace wherein we stand’ is something more than, and after, the ‘peace with God,’ mark next the similarity of the text and the preceding verse. The two great truths in the latter, Christ’s mediation or intervention, and our faith as the condition by which we receive the blessings which are brought to us in and through Him, are both repeated, with no unmeaning tautology, but with profound significance in our text-’By whom also we have access’-as well as-’the peace of God’-’access by faith into this grace.’ So then, for the initial blessing, and for all the subsequent blessings of the Christian life, the way is the same. The medium and channel is one, and the act by which we avail ourselves of the blessings coming through that one medium is the same. Now the language of my text, with its talking about access, faith, and grace, sounds to a great many of us, I am afraid, very hard and remote and technical. And there are not wanting people who tell us that all that terminology in the New Testament is like a dying brand in the fire, where the little kernel of glowing heat is getting covered thicker and thicker with grey ashes. Yes; but if you blow the ashes off, the fire is there all the same. Let us try if we can blow the ashes off.
This text seems to me in its archaic phraseology, only to need to be pondered in order to flash up into wonderful beauty. It carries in it a magnificent ideal of the Christian life, in three things: the Christian place, ‘access into grace’; the Christian attitude, ‘wherein we stand’; and the Christian means of realising that ideal, ‘through Christ’ and ‘by faith.’ Now let us look at these three points.
I. The Christian Place.
There is clearly a metaphor here, both in the word ‘access’ and in that other one ‘stand.’ ‘The grace’ is supposed as some ample space into which a man is led, and where he can continue, stand, and expatiate. Or, we may say, it is regarded as a palace or treasure-house into which we can enter. Now, if we take that great New Testament word ‘grace,’ and ponder its meanings, we find that they run something in this fashion. The central thought, grand and marvellous, which is enshrined in it, and which often is buried for careless ears, is that of the active love of God poured out upon inferiors who deserve something very different. Then there follows a second meaning, which covers a great part of the ground of the use of the phrase in the New Testament, and that is the communication of that love to men, the specific and individualised gifts which come out of that great reservoir of patient, pardoning, condescending, and bestowing love. Then there may be taken into view a meaning which is less prominent in Scripture but not absent, namely, the resulting beauty of character. A gracious soul ought to be, and is, a graceful soul; a supreme loveliness is imparted to human nature by the communication to it of the gifts which are the results of the undeserved, free, and infinite love of God.
Now if we take all these three thoughts as blended together in the grand metaphor of the Apostle, of the ample space into which the Christian man passes, we get such lessons as this. A Christian life may, and therefore should, be suffused with a continual consciousness of the love of God. That would change everything in it. Here is some great sweep of rolling country, perhaps a Highland moor: the little tarns on it are grey and cold, the vegetation is gloomy and dark, dreariness is over all the scene, because there is a great pall of cloud drawn beneath the blue. But the sun pierces with his lances through the grey, and crumples up the mists, and sends them flying beneath the horizon. Then what a change in the landscape! All the tarns that looked black and wicked are now infantile in their innocent blue and sunny gladness, and every dimple in the heights shows, and all the heather burns with the sunshine that falls upon it. So my lonely doleful life, if that light from God, the beam of His love, shines down upon it, rises into nobility, and flashes into beauty, and is calm and fair and great, as nothing else can make it. You may dwell in love by dwelling in God, and then your lives will be fair. You have access into the grace; see that you go there. They tell us that nightingales sing by the wayside by preference, and we may have in our lives, singing a quiet tune, the continual thought of the love of God, even whilst life’s highway is dusty and rough, and our feet are often weary in treading it. A Christian life may be, and therefore should be, suffused with the sense of the abiding love of God.
Take the other meaning of the word, the secondary and derived meaning, the communication of that love to us, and that leads us to say that a Christian life may, and therefore should, be enriched with continual gifts from God’s fullness. I said that the Apostle was using a metaphor here, regarding the grace as being an ample space into which a man was admitted, or we may say that he is thinking of it as a great treasure-house. We have the right of entrance there, where on every side, as it were, lie ingots of uncoined gold, and masses of treasure, and we may have just as much or as little as we choose. It is entirely in our own determination how much of the wealth of God we shall possess. We have access to the treasure-house; and this permit is put into our hands: ‘Be it unto thee even as thou wilt.’ The size of the sack that the man brings, in the old story, determined the amount of wealth that he carried away. Some of you bring very tiny baskets and expect little and desire little; you get no more than you desired and expected.
That wealth, the fullness of God, takes the shape of, as well as is determined in its measure by the magnitude of, the vessel into which it is put. It is multiform, and we get whatever we desire, and whatever either our characters or our circumstances require. The one gift assumes all forms, just as water poured into a vase takes the shape of the vase into which it is poured. The same gift unfolds itself in an infinite variety of manners, according to the needs of the man to whom it is given; just as the writer’s pen, the carpenter’s hammer, the farmer’s ploughshare, are all made out of the same metal. So God’s grace comes to you in a different shape from that in which it comes to me, according to our different callings and needs, as fixed by our circumstances, our duties, our sorrows, our temptations.
So, brethren, how shameful it is that, having the possibility of so much, we should have the actuality of so little. There is an old story about one of our generals in India long ago, who, when he came home, was accused of rapacity because he had brought away so much treasure from the Rajahs whom he had conquered, and his answer to the charge was, ‘I was surprised at my own moderation.’ Ah! there are a great many Christian people who ought to be ashamed of their moderation. They have gone into the treasure-house; stacks of jewels, jars of gold on all sides of them-and they have been content to come away with some one poor little coin, when they might have been ‘rich beyond the dreams of avarice.’ Brethren, you have ‘access’ to the fullness of God. Whose fault is it if you are empty?
Then, further, I said there was another meaning in these great words. The love which may suffuse our lives, the gifts, the consequence of that love, which may enrich our lives, should, and in the measure in which they are received will, adorn and make beautiful our lives. For ‘grace’ means loveliness as well as goodness, and the God who is the fountain of it all is the fountain of ‘whatsoever things are fair,’ as well as of whatsoever things are good. That suggests two considerations on which I have no time to dwell. One is that the highest beauty is goodness, and unless the art of a nation learns that, its art will become filthy and a minister of sin. They talk about ‘Art for Art’s sake.’ Would that all these poets and painters who are trying to find beauty in corruption-and there is a phosphorescent glimmer in rotting wood, and a prismatic colouring on the scum of a stagnant pond-would that all those men who are seeking to find beauty apart from goodness, and so are turning a divine instinct into a servant of evil, would learn that the true gracefulness comes from the grace which is the fullness of God given unto men.
But there is another lesson, and that is that Christian people who say that they have their lives irradiated by the love of God, and who profess to be receiving gifts from His full hand, are bound to take care that their goodness is not ‘harsh and crabbed,’ as not only ‘dull fools suppose’ it to be, but as it sometimes is, but is musical and fair. You are bound to make your goodness attractive, and to show that the things that are ‘of good report’ are likewise the ‘things that are lovely.’
II. And so, now, turn to the second point here, viz. the Christian attitude.
‘The grace wherein ye stand’; that word is very emphatic here, and does not merely mean ‘continue,’ but it suggests what I have put into that phrase, the Christian attitude.
Two things are implied. One is that a life thus suffused by the love, and enriched by the gifts, and adorned by the loveliness that come from God, will be stable and steadfast. Resistance and stability are implied in the words. One very important item in determining a man’s power of resistance, and of standing firm against whatever assaults may be hurled against him, is the sort of footing that he has. If you stand on slippery mud, or on the ice of a glacier, you will find it hard to stand firm; but if you plant your foot on the grace of God, then you will be able to ‘withstand in the evil day, and having done all to stand.’ And how does a man plant his foot on the grace of God? simply by trusting in God, and not in himself. So that the secret of all steadfastness of life, and of all successful resistance to the whirling onrush of temptations and of difficulties, is to set your foot upon that rock, and then your ‘goings’ will be established.
Jesus Christ brings to us, in the gift of life in Him, stability which will check the vacillations of our own hearts. We go up and down, we yield when pressure is brought to bear against us, we are carried off our feet often by the sudden swirl of the stream, and the fitful blast of the wind. But His grace comes in, and will make us able to stand against all assaults. Our poor natures, necessarily changeable, and sinfully vacillating and weak, will be uniform, in the measure in which the grace of God comes into our hearts. Just as in these so-called petrifying wells, they take a bit of cloth, a bird’s nest, a billet of wood, and plunge it into the water, and the mineral held in solution there infiltrates into the substance of the thing plunged in, and makes it firm and inflexible: so let us plunge our poor, changeful, vacillating resolutions, our wayward, wandering hearts, our passions, so easily excited by temptation, into that great fountain, and there will filter into our flexibility what will make it firm, and into our changefulness what will give in us some faint copy of the divine immutability, and we shall stand fast in the Lord and in the power of His might.
Further, in regard to this attitude, which is the result of the possession of grace, we may say that it indicates not only stability and steadfastness, but erectness, as in opposition to crouching or bowing. A man’s independence is guaranteed by his dependence upon, and his possession of, that communicated grace of God. And so you have the fact that the phase of the Christian teaching which has laid most stress on the decrees and sovereign will of God, on divine grace in fact, and too little upon the human side-the phase which is roughly described as Calvinism-has underlain the liberties of Europe, and has stiffened men into the rejection of all priestly and civic domination. ‘Where the Spirit of the Lord is, there is liberty,’ and if a man has in his heart the grace of God, then he stands erect as a man. ‘Ye are bought with a price; be ye not the servants of men.’ The Christian democracy, the Christian rejection of all sacerdotal and other domination, flows from the access of each individual Christian to the fountain of all wisdom, the only source of law and command, the inspirer of all strength, the giver of all grace. By faith ye stand. ‘Stand fast therefore in the liberty wherewith Christ has made you free.’
III. Lastly, and only a word; we have here the Christian way of entrance into grace.
I have already remarked on the emphasis with which, both in my text and in the preceding clause, there are laid down the two conditions of possessing this grace, or the peace which precedes it: ‘By Christ-through faith.’ Notice, too, that Jesus Christ gives us ‘access.’ Now that expression is but an imperfect rendering of the original. If it were not for its trivial associations, one might read instead of ‘access,’ introduction, ‘by whom we have introduction into this grace wherein we stand.’ The thought is that Jesus Christ secures us entry into this ample space, this treasure-house, as some court officer might take by the hand a poor rustic, standing on the threshold of the palace, and lead him through all the glittering series of unfamiliar splendour, and present him at last in the central ring around the king. The reality that underlies the metaphor is plain. We sinners can never pass into that central glory, nor ever possess those gifts of grace, unless the barrier that stands between us and God, between us and His highest gifts of love, is swept away.
I recall an old legend where two knights are represented as seeking to enter a palace, where there is a mysterious fire burning in the middle of the portal. One of them tries to pass through, and recoils scorched; but when the other essays an entrance the fierce fire sinks, and the path is cleared. Jesus Christ has died, and I say it with all reverence, as His blood touches the fire it flickers down and the way is opened ‘into the holiest of all, whither the Forerunner is for us entered.’ He both brings the grace and makes it possible that we should go in where the grace is.
But Jesus Christ’s work is nothing to you unless your personal faith comes in, and so that is pointed to in the second of the clauses here: ‘By faith we have access.’ That is no arbitrary appointment. It lies in the very nature of the gift and of the recipient. How can God give access into that grace to a man who shrinks from being near Him; who does not want ‘access,’ and who could not use the grace if he had it? How can God bestow inward and spiritual gifts upon any man who closes his heart against them, and will not have them? My faith is the condition; Christ is the Giver. If I ally myself to Him by my faith, He gives to me. If I do not, with all the will to do it, He cannot bestow His best gifts any more than a man who stretches out his hand to another sinking in the flood can lift him out, and set him on the safe shore, if the drowning man’s hand is not stretched out to grasp the rescuer’s outstretched hand.
Brethren, God is infinitely willing to give the choicest gifts of His love to us all, to gladden, to enrich, to adorn, to make stable and erect. But He cannot give them unless you will trust Him. ‘It pleased the Father that in Him should all fullness dwell.’ That alabaster box is brought to earth. It was broken on the Cross that ‘the house’ might be ‘filled with the odour of the ointment.’ Our faith is the only condition; it is only the condition, but it is the indispensable condition, of our being anointed with that fragrant anointing. He, and He only, can give us the fullness of God.
Alexander MacLaren, Expositions of Holy Scripture (1904–1910) — public domain. Text from a community e-Sword module.
J. W. McGarvey 1914 · Public Domain On vv2–5 through whom also we have had our access by…
through whom also we have had our access by faith into this grace wherein we stand; and we rejoice in hope of the glory of God . [Having fully established justification by faith as a fact beyond all controversy, the apostle now proceeds to display its fruits and benefits. Therefore, says he, being justified or accounted righteous because of our faith, we have, through the merits of Jesus Christ, obtained peace with God; that is to say, we have the friendship of God, and our disquieted conscience has grown tranquil in the assurance that God no longer regards us as enemies, to be subdued, or criminals, to be punished. And, through the merits of Christ, we have also entered, by faith, into this gracious state of covenant relationship, favor, fellowship and communion with God which is now accorded us, and by which we are now strengthened and established, and we have hope of that infinitely greater fellowship and communion which we shall enjoy when we stand at last in the revealed glory of God-- Joh_17:24 ; Rev_21:11 ; Rev_22:4-5 ]
J. W. McGarvey (with Philip Y. Pendleton), Commentaries on the New Testament (The Fourfold Gospel, 1914; Acts; and the epistles) — public domain. Text from a community e-Sword/MySword module.
Paul E. Kretzmann 1924 · Public Domain On v5 The basis of the Christian’s hope:
The basis of the Christian’s hope:
v. 5. Because the love of God is shed abroad in our hearts by the Holy Ghost which is given unto us.
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v. 6. For when we were yet without strength, in due time Christ died for the ungodly.
v. 7. For scarcely for a righteous man will one die; yet peradventure for a good man some would even dare to die.
v. 8. But God commendeth His love toward us in that, while we were yet sinners, Christ died for us.
v. 9. Much more, then, being now justified by His blood, we shall be saved from wrath through Him.
v. 10. For if, when we were enemies, we were reconciled to God by the death of His Son, much more, being reconciled, we shall be saved by His life.
v. 11. And not only so, but we also joy in God through our Lord Jesus Christ, by whom we have now received the atonement.
Why the hope of the Christian will not put him to shame, will not prove delusive: is now explained by the apostle: For the love of God is poured out in our hearts through the Holy Ghost that is given to us. The love of God, that love which He has toward us, of which He gave us a definite proof and demonstration in the death of His Son, Jesus Christ, that love has been, and continues to be, shed abroad into our hearts, to be communicated to us abundantly. Not in small measure, but in a full and rich stream of divine affection, it spreads itself abroad through the whole soul, filling it with the consciousness and the extreme happiness of His presence and favor. And this has been done through the Holy Ghost that has been given to us, Act 10:4-5; Tit 3:6. It is the testimony of the Spirit that convinces us, richly and daily, that God loves us, that His love is our full property in Christ, our Savior; we are absolutely sure and certain of our blessedness. The love of God, resting upon Christ’s vicarious death, is the sufficient and certain foundation of our hope of the future salvation.
In what respect the love of God is the surety of the Christian’s hope is now explained, v. 6 ff. For Christ already when we were still weak, when we were in a condition of inability to do anything good, at the appointed time, at the time fixed by God in His eternal counsel of love: died for the ungodly. Christ died for us godless people, and that fact reveals the mysteriousness of the divine love. On the part of man there was only a total moral worthlessness; on the part of man there was not a single item to call forth the favorable contemplation of God. It was rather that godlessness had reached a crisis, with no hope held out for the transgressors. But then came the vicarious work of Christ, culminating in His death on the cross, a death in our stead, as our Substitute. 1Jn 4:10. Thus was the love of God manifested, thus, in the completeness of Christ’s sacrifice, do we have the assurance of the continuance and constancy of the love of God. The apostle brings out the greatness of this love by another comparison, v. 7: For hardly will one die for a righteous man; for a good cause, namely, one might perhaps venture to die. There is some possibility that a man might, under circumstances, die in the stead of a righteous person, as his substitute; there is more probability that a person will give his life in a good cause, as a mere proposition in civic righteousness. Such is the condition among men when all things are peculiarly favorable to an external morality. But God demonstrates and proves His love toward us that, while we mere yet sinners, Christ died in our stead, for our sakes. There was not a single feature to recommend us: we were not righteous, our cause was anything but good and commendable. Therefore the love of God in Christ stands out so prominently by contrast: He proves His love toward us in that which Christ did for us. The salutary effects of the death of Christ continue for all time: they are there today for all men, even if the latter are utterly worthless and do not merit the slightest show of love. That is the singular, incomparable love of God, a love which exceeds all that we can conceive of, which our human mind vainly tries to grasp and to measure, and therefore the apostle: from the fact of God’s fervent love for us worthless sinners, draws the conclusion, v. 9. Consequently, if such grace was shown us then, when we were in sin and godlessness, how much more, how much rather, how much more certainly will we now, justified as we have been by the blood of Christ, be saved from the wrath of God through Him! As enemies, we were justified by the blood of Jesus; as being His fellow-participants in peace, we shall be preserved from the wrath and punishment of the last great day. Our justification is our guarantee of our deliverance from the wrath to come; godless we were, but have now become righteous and just, we are exactly as God wants us to be, due to His act of pronouncing us just: therefore we are safe against condemnation. This thought the apostle repeats in order to impress its comforting truth upon the believers. If, when we were enemies, when we were the objects of God’s displeasure, we were reconciled to God, were put into possession of His grace, were placed into such a relation toward Him that He no longer had to be our adversary, how much rather will we be saved by His life, since we have been reconciled, since we have been restored to His grace! While objects of the divine hostility, such unbounded mercy was shown to us; therefore it follows that the love which wrought in such a wonderful measure for us in our extremity will undoubtedly carry out our salvation to the end. The same Savior that died for us has arisen to everlasting, perfect life, and His life is devoted to that one end, to sanctify, protect, and save us eternally, to bring us into that wonderful life of divine glory. And so the apostle breaks forth in the joyful exclamation: But not only that, we also glory in God through our Lord Jesus Christ, through whom we have now received the reconciliation. Nothing could illustrate more thoroughly and exactly the complete restitution of the relation of love toward sinners than these words. The reconciliation of God toward the sinners is so thorough that He feels the warmest friendship for them, and that they, in turn, rejoice and glory in their God. Every believer that is reconciled to God through Christ is sure that all further enmity is excluded. "We glory in God that God is ours and we are His, and that we have all goods in common from Him and with Him in all confidence. " (Luther.) This is no self-righteous boasting, for that would result in the immediate loss of all spiritual gifts and blessings, but a cheerfulness and confidence through our Lord Jesus Christ, who has expiated our guilt, canceled our debt. And thus all apprehension as to the final outcome is removed from our hearts; the hope of eternal salvation, which is a consequence of our justification, is a certain and definite hope, a hope which fills the heart of the believers with quiet joy, and causes them to be absorbed with all their mind in the glorious fact of their justification.
Paul E. Kretzmann, Popular Commentary of the Bible (1921–1924) — public domain. Text from a community e-Sword module.
unfoldingWord translationNotes 2017 · CC BY-SA 4.0 On v3 Not only this
Not only this
The word "this" refers to the ideas described in Romans 5:1-2.
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we ... our ... us
All occurrences of "we," "our," and "us" refer to all believers and should be inclusive. (See: Inclusive "We")
certain hope
This is the certainty that God will fulfill all his promises for those who trust in Christ.
that hope does not disappoint
Paul uses personification here as he speaks of "confidence" as if it were alive. AT: "we are very confident that we will receive the things that we wait for" (See: Personification)
because the love of God has been poured into our hearts
Here "hearts" represents a person's thoughts, feelings, or inner person. The phrase "the love of God has been poured into our hearts" is a metaphor for God showing love to his people. This can be stated in active form. AT: "because he has loved us greatly" or "because God has shown us how much he loves us" (See: Metonymy and Metaphor and Active or Passive)
translationWords
joy
suffer
endure
confidence
love
God
Holy Spirit
unfoldingWord translationNotes — © Distant Shores Media and the Door43 World Missions Community, licensed CC BY-SA 4.0. Source: git.door43.org/Door43/en_tn.
Tyndale Open Study Notes 2022 · CC BY-SA 4.0 On vv2, 3, 5 5:2 undeserved privilege (or grace): So basic is God’s…
5:2 undeserved privilege (or grace): So basic is God’s grace (Greek charis) that Paul can use the word to sum up our present situation as believers. • Where we now stand indicates that God’s grace is needed throughout the Christian life, not just at the beginning. • Sharing God’s glory describes the content of Christian hope, which Paul introduces here and expounds more fully in 8:18-30. Behind Paul’s use of the word glory (Greek doxa) is the Hebrew word kabod, which depicts God’s majesty and overwhelming presence. The prophets predict a day when God’s glory will return to dwell in the midst of his people (see, e.g., Isa 60:1-2).
Tyndale Open Study Notes — © Tyndale Open Resources, licensed CC BY-SA 4.0. Text via the HelloAO Bible API.