'We know that all things work for good for those who love God, who are called according to his purpose. For those he foreknew he also predestined to be conformed to the image of his Son, so that he might be the firstborn among many brothers. And those he predestined he also called; and those he called he also justified; and those he justified he also glorified (Rom. 8:28-30).
There are three different interpretations of v. 28. However, no matter which interpretation is used, the essence is that God’s divine purpose and plan are behind all that happens to Christians because He is in control and does not leave the future to chance. It does not mean that God will allow only good things to happen to Christians. We are disciples of Christ and; ‘No slave is greater than his master.’ If they persecuted me, they will also persecute you (Jn. 15:20).' Christians who have responded to God’s divine call and live in faith, as Christ taught, are destined for adoption by God through the risen Christ (Eph. 1:5). If we put our faith in Christ, we will share in his glory. That is the culmination of our invitation from God (our call), our election (our acceptance), our predestination (the consequence of imitating Christ), and our justification through faith in Christ earned for us through his death and resurrection. We have been redeemed by the blood of Christ and reconciled with God so we can attain the final glory.
Almighty God, help us to remember that you are always near to us like a loving father helping, teaching, inspiring, protecting, guiding, forgiving and blessing us. In your mercy teach your children to turn to you not only in bad times but more importantly in good times when they can clearly feel your presence so they may be strengthened to carry the human or spiritual crosses that will be placed on their shoulders. This we pray through Christ our Lord. Amen!
References:
Raymond E. Brown, Joseph A. Fitzmyer, & Roland E. Murphy, (Eds.). (1990, 1968). The New Jerome Biblical Commentary. Englewood Cliffs, New Jersey: Prentis Hall, Inc.
Jose M. Casciaro, Santiago Ausin, Gonzalo Aranda, Claudio Basevi, Vincente Balaguer, Francisco Varo, James Gavigan, Brian McCarthy & Thomas McGovern (Eds.). (2017). The Navarre Bible - New Testament. Dublin 8, Ireland: Four Courts Press.
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