Cambridge Greek Testament for Schools and Colleges - Romans 5:1 - 5:1

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Cambridge Greek Testament for Schools and Colleges - Romans 5:1 - 5:1


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This Chapter Verse Commentaries:

Rom 5:1-11. Introduction, describing the nature of the state in which we are, under the power of the Gospel: (1) Since, then, we are justified by GOD on the single condition of faith, let us maintain the state of peace with GOD, by the help of Him, (2) by whom we have been brought under this free favour of GOD, and ground our boasting on hope of attaining the perfection of this state in the future full manifestation of GOD in us; (3) and no less in the present straitened condition of our lives, (4) as an opportunity for endurance, proof of character and hope, that hope which cannot disappoint us because it is itself the effect of GOD’S love in us; (6) and that love, measured by what was done for us in Christ’s death for us while we were enemies and sinners, will certainly complete our salvation by the working of Christ’s life in us. (11) So, finally, let us boast in GOD by the help of our Lord Jesus Christ, through whom, as I have said, we received that reconciliation which is now our state.

These verses describe the state of the Christian. It has been shown to be due to GOD’S free act of justification, requiring only man’s faith in Him; it is, summarily, a state of peace with GOD; it was won by the Death of Christ, and is maintained by His Life; under present conditions it is a state of θλίψις, for the man must be tested; but the hope of maintaining and perfecting this state is warranted by the fact that the love which gave it to us will surely maintain us in it and perfect us for its complete realisation. The thought comes out at once that the power of the Gospel is Christ living in us: the section begins and ends with διὰ τοῦ Κυρίου ἡ. Ἰ. Χρ.; cf. n. on Rom 1:17; the subject is resumed and fully treated in c. 8