Lesson 56
Romans Chapter 5 -
Results of Justification by faith.
In 5:2 we have 3 blessings flowing out of vs:2
#2 in the
inventory of blessings is introduction/access.
#3 in the
inventory of blessings is a standing.
#4 in the inventory of blessings is hope.
#2 in the
inventory of blessings is introduction/access.
5:2a
"through
whom" reference to Jesus
Christ;
"we have
obtained our introduction by faith into this grace,"
- When we think of access, introduction who is it that it
refers to?
The
Father is the one approached, gained access to; while it is the Son who is at the right-hand
making the introduction to Him of those who have believed and therefore are
justified.
*** Why or How do we now have
access??
*** back to Rom 5:2; What is the verb Paul uses with introduction?
- "we have" much stronger than that in Grk text. same vb
as in vs:1; e;cw
- its a perfect tense; and the way Paul is using it here
strongly suggests that he is thinking of that past event that has a lasting impact;
I think
that in the flow of the context, in looking at the benefits that result from
being justified, he is stressing the reality of entering into this new state or
condition, a new relationship with God, not so much the ongoing existing aspect
of the access
we have as believers to the Father.
"by
faith" there is a textual question whether or not
this phrase belongs here or not; not a
problem either way really since have the statement in vs:1
- Blessing #3 "into this grace in which we stand"
- This state we're introduced into results from being
justified, from having peace with God, it is characterized as being one of grace which says
that it is one totally undeserved on our part.
- The grace here is focused not so much on the manner in
which God acts or the gift that God gives but on the state or realm into which
God's redeeming work transfers the believer.
Quote by Moo:
Without denying the reality or the presence of God's grace throughout
human history, Paul is so focusing on God's work in Christ as that act in which God's grace
was decisively and finally realized that he now pictures the new status of the
believer as one in which grace is characteristic and dominant.
Point
being made is that the grace in context in which we stand goes beyond the grace in justification, its
included, can't separate from it, from justification but it goes to the realm
of grace in which we are to stand, reaping the benefits of His faithful
provision in our lives.
Observations on Standing!
1. Standing is based exclusively on our union with Christ.
2. This standing is only discovered or known through the
Word of God.
3. It is unrelated to our feelings! Often contradicts your
feelings.
4. It is irrevocable!
Our standing is forever! Cannot
be lost [perfect
tense]