3.3. RIGHTEOUSNESS PERFECTED (Romans 8:17-25)

As the children of God we are joint heirs with Christ. Presently we are helped by the Holy Spirit through the sufferings that are to culminate in glory (Romans 8:17,18 ). In the perfection of our hope lies the solution for the entire creation (Romans 8:19-25 ). In God's vast plan of salvation even earth will know newness and rejuvenation (Romans 8:21 ). We shall experience the perfect culmination of our redemption in our resurrection state (Romans 8:23 ).

Romans 8:25 "But if we hope for what we do not see, we eagerly wait for it with perseverance."

Living expectantly, knowing it is better, far better the fullness and completion ahead, produces the grace of perseverance in us which is so precious to God.

Our mighty helper the Holy Spirit prevails in intercession through us.

Romans 8:26 "Likewise the Spirit also helps in our weaknesses. For we do not know what we should pray for as we ought, but the Spirit Himself makes intercession for us with groanings which cannot be uttered."

Nature groans (Romans 8:22 ), we groan (Romans 8:23 ), The Holy Spirit groans (Romans 8:26 ). Our groaning would be futile without the mighty, supernatural groanings of the Holy Spirit within us. Holy Spirit intercession is in accordance with our real need and according to the will of God (Romans 8:27 ).

Holy Spirit intercession results in God working all things together for good to those who love God and are called according to His purpose (Romans 8:28 ). We would ask for that which would not be for our good, even for things out of accord with His purpose. The given, indwelling divine Helper saves us from all that by intercession.

God's overruling purpose is that we be conformed to the image of His Son. This is the destiny of those made righteous in Christ Jesus. This is the highest good. God has planned for us to be like His Son.

Romans 8:29 "... that he might be the first born among many brethren."

Our future glorification as the justified is so certain that it is said to be accomplished, "these He also glorified" (Romans 8:30 ).

God is for us - this is certain since He gave His Son.

Romans 8:31 "What then shall we say to these things? If God is for us, who can be against us?"

There is no doubt God is for us in our struggles, situations, and work. But the thought here is that of God's unceasing commitment and unalterable attitude including His unending giving of all things (Romans 8:32 ) with respect to those in Christ.

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QUESTIONS FOR GROUP INTERACTION

1. How is your expectation as a joint-heir with Christ affecting your present difficulties (Romans 8:17-18; 2 Corinthians 4:17 )?

2. What kind of bondage do you witness creation to be subjected to, and in what hope lies the solution (Romans 8:19-21 )?

3. What is the result of the Holy Spirit's intercession in your life (Romans 8:26-28 )?

4. What is your destiny as one made righteous in Christ Jesus (Romans 8:29 )?

5. What is God's promise to you, the neediest, that He guarantees by having given His dearest (Romans 8:29 )?