Reflection upon Romans 5

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Just what is the hope of the Christian? Or, stated differently, what is Christian hope? It is far different from the hope of the world. The world’s definition of hope is one of believing in a 50/50 chance of a desired outcome that is not certain. The Christian’s hope could not be any more different. Its basis lies in faith; the substance of things hoped for, the evidence of things not seen. The Christian believes in his God, and that he will indeed receive what is promised. The Christian believes this will indeed happen, with no chance of it not happening. The Christian knows this to be true, for this truth has been poured into his heart by God through the Holy Spirit. Herein is the love of God on full display. God’s love for us is not only shown through our salvation (God choosing us for Himself, rescuing us from sin and His wrath), but also in our justification (we are declared righteous before Him through His Son’s atonement), our sanctification (God working in our lives, purifying us, molding us), and finally to our glorification (we will be with Him in holy perfection for all eternity). We know this to be true with all our being. This is the hope of every child of God.

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