Pastor’s Pen Pulpit

October 7, 2001

Series: Romans Chapter 5

“JUSTIFICATION PLUS” - continued

Romans 5:10-11

For if while we were enemies, we were reconciled to God through the death of His Son, much more, having been reconciled, we shall be saved by His life. And not only this, but we also exult in God through our Lord Jesus Christ, through whom we have now received the reconciliation.

Let’s consider Part II of Justification Plus. Paul has just stated that believers have been delivered forever from the wrath of God because of our justification (being declared righteous) in Christ Jesus.

He now says that while we were still enemies of God we were reconciled to God through the death of His son (the word reconcile means to change from a state of enmity to a state of friendship). The Greek word is katallasso. Here is the second “much more”.

In verse 10 he tells us much more, having been reconciled, we shall be saved (continuously) by His life. Surely if the death of His Son brought us to God and justified us, how much more will He continue to save us in His resurrection life. This phase of His continuing salvation is seen in His intercessory work at the right hand of God the Father (cf Hebrews 7 and Romans 8:34.) He arose into a brand new life. This is life beyond death. It is life that keeps on saving. This is essentially the message of Romans 6.

What a thrill to know that both the death and life of Jesus Christ constitutes the basis of our great salvation. How does this affect the believer? In verse 11 he writes, “not only this but we also exult or rejoice in God through our Lord Jesus Christ through whom we have received the reconciliation.”

Rejoicing is a big plus in our redemption. Rejoicing is a concept that appears prolifically in both old and new testaments. In fact the one thing that can mar our rejoicing is sin in our lives. Sin pours cold water on the believer’s joy.

So, beloved, rejoicing should be our experience today. If it is not, then let’s examine ourselves. Let’s ask God to show us what is eroding our Christian joy. He will surely answer that prayer. When He shows us let’s confess it and move on in our walk with God - rejoicing! God bless.

Love to you all,