But if we hope for what we do not yet have, we wait for it patiently. Romans 8:25
Paul’s letter to Romans is the most complete explanation of the nature of the Gospel found in the Bible. The church of Rome was established by those who were present in Jerusalem on the day of Pentecost and believed, then returned home and remained faithful. But, problems arose. First, it was believed that to be Christian one must first become a Jewish proselyte, taking on the physical rites, orthodox traditions and the Law of Moses. Paul says that man’s justification rests fundamentally on Grace and Mercy, not Law. And all of this is possible because God is Holy although we are not.
The verse prior to this one , “For in this hope we are saved. But hope that is seen is not hope at all. Who hopes for what they already have?” Why do we hope and wait? Because we long for a better existence. This won’t be fully fulfilled in the flesh, but in our redemption and freedom from sin into Heaven’s Glory.
We are saved by faith, but it is hope that gives us perseverance, diligence and joy of testimony that ultimately speaks the Good News.
Love,
Gretchen