Romans 8:38-39 I am convinced that neither death, nor life, nor angels, nor heavenly rulers, nor things that are present, nor things to come, nor powers, nor height, nor depth, nor anything else in creation will be able to separate us from the love of God in Christ Jesus.
This is such a power-house statement! Sadly, I have often heard this scripture used to suggest that even if we continue in sin, we will find ourselves eternally in the presence of God. While the beginning of chapter 8 begins with our weakness and no condemnation for those in Christ, Paul wrote, “We are no longer under obligation to live according to the flesh, for if you live according to the flesh you will die, but if by the Spirit you put to death the deeds of the flesh, you will live.” (Rom 8:18)
Rather, verses 38-39 are connected to persecution and suffering. In verse 18, Paul begins, “I consider that our present sufferings cannot be compared to the glory that will be revealed to us.” The condemnation spoken of in verse 34 is earthly condemnation. Let’s look at this in context to be clear:
Indeed, He who did not spare His own Son, but gave Him up for us all – how will He not also freely give us all things? Who will bring any charge against God’s elect? It is God who justifies. Who is the one who will condemn? Christ is the one who died (and was raised), who is now at the right hand of God and interceding for us. Who will separate us from the love of Christ? Will trouble, distress, persecution, famine, nakedness, danger, or sword? As it is written, “For Your sake we encounter death all day long: we were considered as sheep to be slaughtered.” Now in all these things we have complete victory through Him who loved us. I am convinced that neither death, nor life, nor angels, or heavenly powers, nor things that are present, nor things to come, nor powers, nor height, nor depth, nor anything else in creation will be able to separate us from the love of God in Christ Jesus.” (Romans 8:32-39)
In the turbulence of these days and the inflammatory speech that has become a norm, it is easy to become discouraged. Some people fear that speaking their opinion might bring attacks from friends or family. It is possible that certain ideas will be banned from social media or labeled ‘hate-speech.’ It is critical that we communicate in love and with respect. We must not let our emotions or behavior discredit Christ in the world. However, we should also be bold and confident. I do not know of anyone in a western culture who has suffered to the point of bloodshed for stating their beliefs. No matter what takes place in the world, no matter how much things change – NOTHING can separate us from the love of God in Christ Jesus. This should give us all courage upon courage to do and say what we know is right.