For we were saved in this hope, but hope that is seen is not hope; for why does one still hope for what he sees? But if we hope for what we do not see, we eagerly wait for it with perseverance.
Romans 8:24-25
It is important to remember that the New Testament epistles are letters that were written to those who are Christians, that is, those who once were “dead in trespasses and sins” (Ephesians 2:1) but have been made alive in Christ and saved by His grace (Ephesians 2:8-9).
As Paul speaks to these Christians, he tells them “we were saved in this hope” (Romans 8:24). Hope always has a future orientation, something anticipated but not yet received. But biblically, hope is never wishful thinking, but confidant assurance based on the character and promises of God.
Hope always has a future orientation, something anticipated but not yet received. But biblically, hope is never wishful thinking, but confidant assurance based on the character and promises of God.
As a Christian, there are many blessings that I am already enjoying because of my relationship to Jesus, being blessed “with every spiritual blessing in the heavenly places in Christ” (Ephesians 1:3). It has been suggested that through Paul’s encounter with the Lord on the road to Damascus he learned that there is a union between Christ and His people such that whatever happens to us impacts Christ (Acts 9:4-5); but also, whatever happens to Christ impacts us. Because Christ died, I died; because He rose, I rose; because He is seated in heavenly places, I am seated in heavenly places (Ephesians 2:5-6).
But the language of hope tells us there is still much that lies ahead for those who by faith are children of God (John 1:12-13). Peter speaks of “an inheritance incorruptible and undefiled and that fades not away, reserved in heaven for you who are kept by the power of God through faith” (1 Peter 1:3-5). We have not yet entered into all the blessings provided by the death of Jesus, but we anticipate with confidence that God will fulfil His promises.
Paul’s point in Romans 8 is that the hardships and struggles of life in a world under the curse of sin (Genesis 3:17-19) are to be expected but assures believers that “the sufferings of this present time are not worthy to be compared with the glory which shall be revealed in us” (Romans 8:18). He argues that the whole creation is groaning now as it eagerly awaits deliverance from the curse, and that believers “were saved in this hope”.
Do you have hope for the future, that things will get better? Is it mere wishful thinking or is it based upon the promises of a God who cannot lie (Hebrews 6:17-19)?
DNW