I have found, in my own thinking and beliefs, a need to undergo such a reorientation regarding the big ideas of God's justice, mercy, His omnipotence (i.e., almightiness or sovereignty) AND His salvation of sinful, guilty people. THIS chapter may have that affect on YOU. I urge you though, not to simply skip over it because the re-orientation COULD lead you to a much deeper appreciation of these ideas and a new sense of mystery, assurance, praise and reverence toward God and of humility, diligence, and abundant comfort. (Westminster Confession of Faith, 3.8)

Let's look at this mind-expanding, heart-expanding passage under three headings:

1. A Quandary Answered By Four Examples
2. The Underlying Truth That Grounds Us
3. Why the Disorientation is Worth It

Today, with one, great, final push, as if Paul is saying, "Not only will what I'm about to say help you to love and forgive one another… to endure difficulties WITH (and let's face it) sometimes FROM one another – but if you get what this means, there's a level of security here so compelling that it can sustain you in ANY difficulty life throws your way – the power of extravagant security!

So, let's look at this and restock the shelves of our hearts with it because we'll need it in the coming weeks (we need it NOW!) – it's the Engine for ongoing love, commitment and unique community in the Church:

1. The Congregation's Deep Need
2. The Counselor's Method and Message
3. The Strange Invitation to Bring It On!

Romans CH 8 is a favorite chapter for many Bible-readers. It addresses a key topic, very significant in our age and all ages and that is – security.

The word comes up a lot in our time and place – security system, security guard, internet security, Homeland Security, Social Security, food security, job security…We live in a world that's INsecure and vulnerable to terrorism and viruses, change and various dangers but ALSO, philosophically, psychologically, socially and spiritually MODERN HUMANITY faces its own insecurity. Men and women and children are facing the existential dilemma …the desire for security.

I'm going to DARE to do something preachers KNOW not to do, i.e., look at the GRAMMAR used by the Apostle Paul:

1. Words that RELATE (Prepositions are your friends!)
2. Words that STATE (Fact vs. Command)
3. Stating and Relating (Grammar Can Be Fun!)