Because we’ve been justified by faith in Christ, we have unshakeable peace with God, a living hope in suffering, and confident assurance that we are loved.
1. We Have Peace with God
(vv. 1–2a)
“Therefore, since we have been justified by faith, we have peace with God through our Lord Jesus Christ, through whom we have also obtained access by faith into this grace in which we stand…”
Key Thought:
We’re not just tolerated — we’ve been welcomed into a lasting, unbreakable peace with our Creator. This is a gift we could never earn, and it should overflow in deep gratitude.
Application:
- Thank God daily that you don’t have to fear His judgment anymore.
- Express your gratitude by sharing this good news with others who still feel far from God.
Illustration:
Imagine someone paying off an impossible debt you owed — how would you feel toward them? Our hearts should overflow with thankfulness for the gift of peace bought by Jesus’ sacrifice.
Colossians 3:15 — “And let the peace of Christ rule in your hearts, to which indeed you were called in one body. And be thankful.”
John 14:27 — “Peace I leave with you… not as the world gives.”
2. We Have Hope That Grows in Suffering
(vv. 2b–5)
“We rejoice in hope of the glory of God… we rejoice in our sufferings…”
Key Thought:
Our trials don’t destroy hope — they deepen it. Suffering → endurance → character → hope. And hope doesn’t disappoint because it’s rooted in God’s love.
Application:
- What trial are you facing?
- God is using it to build your character — don’t waste your pain.
- Trust that the Holy Spirit pours His love into your heart, even in hardship.
A diamond is formed under intense pressure — so is godly character.
3. We Have Proof of God’s Love
(vv. 6–8)
“God shows His love for us in that while we were still sinners, Christ died for us.”
Key Thought:
God didn’t wait for us to clean up — His love took the first step when we were helpless, ungodly, sinners, even enemies.
Application:
- When you doubt His love, look to the cross.
- No sin, failure, or weakness can undo what Jesus did.
Imagine a friend who dies for you at your worst — that’s how radical Christ’s love is.
4. We Have Confidence for the Future
(vv. 9–11)
“Since… we have now been justified by His blood, much more shall we be saved by Him from the wrath of God.”
Key Thought:
If God did the hard thing — saving us while we were enemies — how much more will He keep us now that we’re His friends? Reconciliation means we rejoice in God.
Application:
- Live with assurance: your salvation is secure in Christ.
- Let your daily joy overflow in praise — rejoice in God!
Jude 24 — “He is able to keep you from stumbling.”
Conclusion:
Key Takeaway:
Don’t stand in fear — stand in grace.
Don’t live in shame — live in hope.
Don’t wonder if you’re loved — rest in the cross.
Don’t doubt your future — rejoice in your God!
