Romans 8:28-39

August 18 / Romans 8:28-39

On November 19, 1863 Abraham Lincoln delivered his remarkable Gettysburg Address at the dedication of the Soldiers’ National Cemetery. He was not the featured speaker that day. That honor belonged to the Hon. Edward Everett. Everett spoke for just over two hours. Lincoln spoke for just over two minutes. Everett was a rightly famous orator but the words he spoke that day are all but forgotten. Lincoln’s words still deeply stir the heart and they will continue to do so forever.

This passage before us today puts me in mind of Lincoln’s famous speech. There is some disagreement about the exact wording of Lincoln’s speech but the generally quoted version is 272 words long. Of course the English translation of Romans 8:28-39 will vary in different versions but in the NIV it is 271 words.

Trying to add anything to it would feel very much like being Edward Everett. I will only add one note about verse 34 because it might tend to be a little confusing. Essentially what Paul is saying here is that the One who serves as our Judge is the same One who died for us and was raised from the dead. If He was willing to die for us then we should be confident He will rule in our favor.

Beyond that all I have to say it, “Read it.” Take two minutes and read all 271 words. Then take the rest of the day and stand in awe.