7-8-2016

     Good Morning All!!       

           Romans 8:1; “There is therefore now no condemnation for those who are in Christ Jesus.”

     “Therefore”- it is truly an amazing word.  “Therefore” is a sign of a significant event.  “Therefore” indicates a summary of facts to a logical conclusion.  It is the conclusive in Cartesian logic.  “If ‘a’ equals ‘b’ and ‘b’ equals ‘c’ therefore ‘a’ must equal ‘c’.  “Therefore” is the start of the resolution after the “whereas(es)” explain the logic.  “Therefore, be it resolved”.  It is to point out the clear and concise conclusion to the facts presented to solve an issue. 

     In the Book of Romans, the Apostle Paul spends the first seven chapters showing us, with the clarity and logic of the trained student of the law that he was, how God has went about to bring us into his holy family.  The actions of Jesus, his death and resurrection, are used to justify us before God.  Now that Paul declares this truth; he is ready.  He is ready to state the obvious conclusion.  He is ready to state “therefore”.

     Paul’s “therefore” leads to one of the greatest chapters in the entire Bible.  If you have never read the entire chapter, I would encourage you to read it many, many times.  I would encourage you to mark it and look at all the “therefores” that Paul gives us.  Since we are declared holy by God we are “therefore” to walk by the Spirit and not the flesh.  “Therefore” we are heirs with Christ to God’s kingdom.  “Therefore” we can now call upon our Father and not our judge.

    “Therefore” we are no longer alone in this world; we have the Spirit interceding for us with groans we do not even comprehend.  We even have Jesus, at the Father’s side, interceding on our behalf.  “Therefore” all things will work to good for those who are called according to his purposes.  “Therefore” God is for us and is not our enemy.  “Therefore” God gives us all things.  “Therefore” no one can condemn us because it is God who justifies.  “Therefore” we are greater than all the conquerors because of God’s great gift.  “Therefore” nothing can separate you from God’s love.

    Paul’s “therefores” give us the confidence we need to face the challenges of each day.  Paul’s “therefores” list for us some of the great hopes that we have in.  Whatever struggle greets you in the morning or tries to haunt you at night remember “therefore” if God is for us who can be against us.  Whatever pain drives your sorrow, remember “therefore” nothing can separate us from the love of God that is in Christ Jesus our lord.  Whatever worry leaves you with no words to express your fear, remember “therefore” the Spirit and Jesus are interceding for us.  Whatever sadness leaves you feeling alone; remember “therefore” we are heirs with Christ.  Whatever situation in your life seems to be pushing you down, remember “therefore” you are more than conquerors.  You are God’s child and you salvation is guaranteed.  Therefore we can have peace.

Father, your great love for me gives me peace.  Be with those who suffer from the devils attacks.  Give them the comfort of your love.  In the precious name of Jesus we pray, amen.

God’s Peace,

Pastor Bret