By Rev. Ron Purkey
Guest Columnist

Read Romans 8:18-39

By Rev. Ron Purkey

“For I reckon that the sufferings of this present time are not worthy to be compared with the glory which shall be revealed in us.” (Romans 8:18)

First, the cessation of suffering (Romans 8:18-22). “The sufferings of this present time” are the common lot of all believers. This generation, which is enjoying more creature comforts than any other in history, frowns upon this statement, but even present-day Christians cannot escape suffering.

Second, the redemption of the body (Romans 8:23-25). We groan within these bodies. Paul says, “For in this we groan, earnestly desiring to be clothed upon with our house which is from heaven” (2 Corinthians 5:2). Also the psalmist wrote, “I am weary with my groaning; all the night make I my bed to swim; I water my couch with my tears” (Psalm 6:6).

We have a redeemed body coming up in the future. Faith, hope and love are the vital parts of the believer’s life. There would be no hope if all were realized. Someday hope will pass away in realization. In fact, both faith and hope will pass away in the glory which shall be revealed in us. Only love abides.

Third, the intercession of the Holy Spirit (Romans 8:26-27). Have you gone to God sometimes in prayer when you actually did not know what to pray for? All you could do was just go to him and say, “Father.” You could not ask anything because you didn’t know what to ask for. At times like this the Spirit “helpeth our infirmities.” How wonderful that is. It’s wonderful sometimes to go to the Lord and say, “Lord, I don’t know what to ask for. I don’t know what to say. But I’m coming to you as your child. And I want your will done.” And the Spirit of God then will make intercession for us according to the will of God. How wonderful that is.

Fourth, the future glory (Romans 8:27-30). In Romans 8:27 the Greek word for “intercession” that Paul uses means “to appeal.” In our weakness, we may simply be groaning, but the Holy Spirit translates that into an appeal that is according to the will of God. If we pray from the heart — even if our prayers are only groans — they are exactly as they should be by the time they reach God.

Everybody likes the first part of Romans 8:28, where all things work together for the good of those who love God. But most people, though, ignore the second part — which is even more important.

So, what exactly is God’s purpose for our lives? God desires to conform us to the image of his Son (see Romans 8:29). God always finishes what he starts; it’s an unbroken chain. Notice that all who are called reach glorification, which guarantees the eternal security of all believers (Romans 8:30).

We should be sure to read Romans 8:35-39. This should give us tremendous assurance.

Read Ron Purkey’s Bible study outlines at www.rcpbibleoutlines.com free on the website. Purkey has been an ordained Baptist minister for 50 years.