In the next three chapters are three different models for us. In Chapter 4 we meet Abraham, the father of Israel, the father of the circumcised, the one who originally heard God, and set out on a journey to a place he had never been before. Paul makes the argument that Abraham is the father not just of Israel, not just of the circumcised, but of all who trust God's faithfulness. Didn't God's call to Abraham (and Abraham's answer) precede his circumcision? Paul asks. (Yes). Well, then, it is not circumcision that makes the difference but it is faith in God. It is trust in Christ's faithfulness, not whether we meet a particular legal requirement, that makes the difference.
Before we meet the next model (Adam), there is that wonderful portion of Romans 5 that shows us the consequences of trusting in Christ's faithfulness: peace with God. This peace transcends our circumstances, builds character, and gives meaning to our suffering, because God's love has overflowed into our hearts.
So, what about Adam? Paul also lists Adam as a model -- a model not of obedience but of disobedience, not of trust but of distrust. Adam and Eve were in the garden, with free gifts all around them, and instead of seeing the abundance of gifts, they focused on the one thing denied them. Paul says -- we are like Adam -- and yet, God values us, loves us, and Jesus died for us.
Then, finally, is Jesus, the third model. Unlike Adam, Jesus trusts God. Jesus is faithful to God -- and to us. Somehow because of this faithfulness, the cycle of sin is broken, and we are set free. We don't have to obey God, out of fear or obligation. But we get to hear God's voice, experience God's love and caring, and help our neighbor in ways that really help.
Paul is talking about, trying to explain big things, big concept: Freedom and captivity, sin and faith and righteousness. What do those words mean to you? What does it mean to be free? or, not free?
No comments:
Post a Comment