Romans 8c Commentary
Yes, there is foreknowledge, but there is also an active involvement in the life of the saint in the present. The saint lives in victory! The saint may know of conquerors, whichever conqueror. But the saint is more than that conqueror or those conquerors. The LORD sees to it!
In the example of the teacher who knows which of his students will pass the exam, we can be sure the teacher will provide extra help to ensure they pass very well.
We can incorporate free will because the students pass the exam because of personal effort. But if you consider that the teacher sets the exam in a way that makes even the slowest of learners pass, you probably want to think of GRACE. And if leakage is provided to all and more than enough time is given, you want to think of zero failures. It should be impossible to go to hell! But the impossible will happen!
The author brilliantly explores salvation with human parameters within a human environment. We can expand his thoughts. How can you fail the exam under these circumstances? Under normal circumstances, parents wish the brightest and smartest mind for their son or daughter. The Creator God doesn’t have to wish; the LORD provides all these faculties via the Holy Spirit – it is real.
So the author asks, how can we fail?
But don’t be fooled. The students don’t have it easy at all! There are all sorts of distractions. You may be persecuted for being a student – never to mention the possibility of actual death!
Regardless, God’s love keeps us in shape and in position. So, bring it on! Trouble? No problem. Hardship? No problem. Famine? No problem. The saint remains in God’s love – what strong love! Not even death is a threat strong enough to separate the saint from God’s love.
Saints scorn suffering as they fully embrace God’s love.
We can call it unfair business. God is the teacher, the examiner, the invigilator, and the marker. And if there is a case, He is your defense lawyer. He alone comprises the Jury. He is also the Judge. The saints know they always win!
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