How can we live confidently knowing we are "saved from wrath"? “Much more then, having now been justified by His blood, we will be saved from wrath through Him.” – Romans 5:9 Grasping the Core Promise • “Justified by His blood” means the courtroom verdict is already in: righteous. • “Saved from wrath” is not a future maybe; it is a settled certainty anchored in the cross. • The same verb tense in v. 9 that settles our justification secures our rescue. Why Wrath Exists—and Why It Will Never Reach Us • God’s wrath is His holy response to sin (Nahum 1:2; Romans 1:18). • Jesus absorbed that wrath on our behalf: “He Himself is the atoning sacrifice for our sins” (1 John 2:2). • Because God is just, He will not demand double payment. The bill is stamped “Paid in Full.” The Finished Work of Christ • John 5:24—“Whoever hears My word and believes Him who sent Me has eternal life and will not come under judgment; indeed, he has crossed over from death to life.” • Hebrews 10:14—“For by one offering He has perfected for all time those who are being sanctified.” • The cross was not a partial down payment; it was complete settlement. Living in Confidence Today • No condemnation: Romans 8:1. • No separation: Romans 8:38-39. • Perfect love drives out fear: 1 John 4:18. • Our citizenship is already marked “heaven” (Philippians 3:20). • The Spirit testifies we are God’s children (Romans 8:16). Practical Rhythms to Keep Confidence Alive • Rehearse the gospel daily—preach Romans 5:9 to your own heart each morning. • Memorize anchor verses (e.g., John 5:24; Jude 24). • Participate in Communion with a grateful focus on the blood that justifies. • Share your testimony; telling reinforces believing (Revelation 12:11). • Sing truth-filled hymns and songs about the cross (Colossians 3:16). • Lean into fellowship; encouragement safeguards assurance (Hebrews 10:24-25). Guarding Against Doubt • Doubt often grows in isolation; bring questions into the light of Scripture and community. • Remember salvation is by grace through faith, not performance (Ephesians 2:8-9). • When sin triggers fear, confess quickly and receive cleansing (1 John 1:9). • Fix your mind on what is true, not on shifting emotions (Philippians 4:8). Overflowing in Grateful Obedience • Love fuels obedience: “For Christ’s love compels us” (2 Corinthians 5:14-15). • Serve others as rescued people eager to display mercy (Titus 3:5-8). • Look for daily opportunities to extend the same grace you’ve received. Saved from wrath, we walk out our days not with anxious uncertainty, but with settled, joyful confidence—grounded in the blood of Jesus and guarded by the unchanging character of God. |