Romans 8:28 is one of the most quoted verses in the Bible. Rightfully so, it is God’s greatest promise to us. I want to focus in on two things from these verses today that I hope will be helpful. First, I want to rightly understand what Romans 8:28 means and what it does not mean, in light of the explanation given in Romans 8:29-30. Secondly, I want to set a theological foundation for what Romans 9 is going to say, by rightly understanding the word “foreknew” in 8:29. Most people who know me would say that I lean towards theological understanding vs. emotional, but I would say that in order to have any real true emotions for God, they must be based on a right, true understanding of Him. So when I discuss theological items, I’m always going to explain why it matters objectively from God’s word, and to what extent it matters subjectively based on my own opinion, understanding, and hopefully wisdom.
First, what does Romans 8:28 mean? The most important part of what I want known about Romans 8:28 is that it is by no means a declaration of promised earthly prosperity. Consider the author, Paul, who has been imprisoned and beaten for the very message that he is writing to the Church at Rome. God is not promising us any kind of health, wealth, and prosperity as Christians. A good explanation of Romans 8:28 is found in James 1:2-4 – “Count it all joy, my brothers, when you meet trials of various kinds, for you know that the testing of your faith produces steadfastness. And let steadfastness have its full effect, that you may be perfect and complete, lacking in nothing.” Even as Christians, we struggle with believing that our joy can be found in this world and in this life. God has something infinitely better for us, and it is at the center of what it means to truly “believe” the gospel; the good news of the gospel is our reconciliation to God, our ability through Christ to have perfect fellowship with Him.
Following the Way 