This sermon continues a series on the book of Romans, emphasizing Paul's systematic theology of the gospel. The message explores justification by faith, the righteousness of God, and the transformation that faith brings into the believer’s life.

The Righteousness of God and Justification

Paul begins the book of Romans by establishing the righteousness of God, declaring that without it, there is no gospel and no hope for humanity. In chapter 1, Paul introduces the gospel as a revelation of God's righteousness, which is made evident through faith. Chapter 2 addresses the self-righteousness of the Jews, who believed that their heritage and adherence to religious traditions were sufficient for salvation. However, Paul emphasizes that true righteousness is not found in external practices but in the transformation of the heart.

Chapter 3 highlights the universal sinfulness of mankind, stating that "all have sinned and come short of the glory of God." There is no exception—everyone is guilty before God. This realization of sin sets the stage for chapter 4, where Paul uses Abraham as an example of faith. Abraham was not justified by works, rituals, or obedience to the law but by faith alone. Paul underscores that faith is the key to righteousness, and this faith must be active and growing.

Romans 5:1 – The Peace of Justification

Chapter 5 begins with the powerful statement: "Therefore, being justified by faith, we have peace with God through our Lord Jesus Christ." This declaration means that believers, once weighed down by sin, have been completely cleared of their debt through faith in Jesus Christ. The magnitude of this justification is likened to an insurmountable financial debt being completely paid off—except that our spiritual debt was far greater than any monetary sum.

The peace that comes from justification is not based on our efforts but on Christ’s sacrifice. The sermon draws an analogy to international political tensions, explaining that unresolved debts create conflict, but when the debt is paid, peace follows. In the same way, before justification, there was hostility between humanity and God. Now, because of Christ’s sacrifice, believers are no longer at odds with God but are at peace with Him.

Access to Grace and the Growth of Faith

Through Christ, believers have access to grace. This grace is not merely an escape from sin’s punishment but a gateway to a transformed life. The sermon illustrates this by comparing it to having a security key card—faith grants believers access to God's presence, His blessings, and His will. With this access, Christians can grow spiritually, experiencing deeper communion with God, the fruit of the Spirit, and divine wisdom.

The sermon emphasizes that true fulfillment and purpose are only found in God's will. It references biblical figures like Joseph, Moses, and Joshua—men whom God led through hardship to develop them into strong leaders. Just as they had to endure challenges, believers today must go through trials to grow spiritually.

Trials, Patience, and Spiritual Growth

Romans 5:3-4 explains that suffering produces perseverance, character, and ultimately hope. The Christian life is not about avoiding difficulties but enduring them with faith. Trials are necessary because they cultivate patience, much like physical calluses that develop over time through repeated strain. Patience, in turn, produces experience, which strengthens a believer's faith and confidence in God's promises.

The message challenges believers to embrace difficulties rather than seek immediate relief. While trials may be uncomfortable, they refine character and prepare individuals for greater responsibilities in God’s plan.

Hope That Does Not Disappoint

Romans 5:5 states that "hope maketh not ashamed," meaning that true hope in Christ will never lead to disappointment. The sermon references Psalm 22:5, which assures that those who trust in God will never be confounded. Unlike worldly hope, which is uncertain, biblical hope is a confident expectation based on God’s faithfulness.

Even when prayers seem unanswered or life does not go as expected, God is still working. The sermon recounts a personal story of praying for a loved one’s healing, acknowledging that while the desired outcome did not happen, God was still at work in other ways.

God’s Ultimate Love – Romans 5:6-8

The sermon concludes with Romans 5:6-8, which highlights God’s immense love for humanity. While people may be willing to die for a good person, Christ died for sinners at their worst. The word "commendeth" in verse 8 means "to show"—God demonstrated His love not when humanity was at its best but when it was at its lowest.

This truth serves as both a foundation for salvation and a motivation for spiritual growth. Just as God gave His best for humanity, He calls believers to give their best for Him. Regardless of where someone stands in their faith journey—whether distant from God, struggling through trials, or growing in their relationship with Him—God’s love remains constant, urging them to take the next step forward.

Final Challenge

The sermon closes by urging believers to trust in God's plan and take the next step in faith. Whether facing trials, spiritual stagnation, or doubts, God has already demonstrated His love through the sacrifice of Jesus. He calls each believer to continue growing, enduring hardships, and striving to be their best in every aspect of life—spiritually, professionally, and personally.

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