by Jamie Pantastico | Dec 16, 2023 | Daily Encouragement |
‘Yet in all these things we are more than conquerors through Him who loved us. ‘
Romans 8:37
What are the “things” to which Paul is referring?
In Romans 8:37, the Apostle Paul refers to “yet in all these things” various challenging circumstances or adversaries that believers may face. Paul is referring to verse 35, ‘Who shall separate us from the love of Christ? Shall tribulation, or distress, or persecution, or famine, or nakedness, or peril, or sword?’
Here’s a breakdown of the “things” mentioned in Romans 8:37:
1. “tribulation” – Refers to trials, distress, or hardships.
2. “distress” – Signifies extreme difficulty, pressure, or anguish.
3. “persecution” – Involves hostility, mistreatment, or oppression for one’s beliefs.
4. “famine” – Indicates scarcity of food or resources.
5. “nakedness” – Represents a lack of clothing or basic necessities.
6. “peril” – Denotes exposure to serious danger or risk.
7. “sword” – Symbolizes the threat of violence or conflict.
Despite facing these formidable challenges, Paul proclaims that believers are “more than conquerors” through Christ, who loves them.
We are conquerors, no matter what! Why? Because God said we are, and we believe Him.
Faith above all.
by Jamie Pantastico | Dec 16, 2023 | Daily Encouragement |
Be Encouraged
Scripture: Romans 8:37
“Yet in all these things we are more than conquerors through Him who loved us.”
If you haven’t noticed already, the life of a believer is a battlefield, where trials and tribulations come at us from every direction. In those moments of struggle, it’s easy to question our strength, endurance, and even our faith. But fear not, for in the midst of it all, we have a powerful promise to cling to—a promise found in Romans 8:37.
The apostle Paul, inspired by the Holy Spirit, tells us that “in all these things, we are more than conquerors through Him who loved us.” Notice the emphasis on “more than conquerors.” This is not just about surviving or enduring; it’s about triumphing in a way that exceeds our expectations.
Resurrection Power
The victory we have is not based on our own might, skills, or abilities; it’s rooted in the finished work of Christ, “Resurrection Power”. Our conquering power (Romans 1:16) comes from Him who loved us so much that He triumphed over sin, the law, Satan, and even death itself. Christ’s victory becomes our victory.
As believers, we are not defined by our circumstances. We are defined by the overwhelming, unconditional love of Christ. No matter what trials we face—be it sickness, financial struggles, relationship challenges, or the weight of our past—we are more than conquerors.
Take a moment to reflect on the battles you’re currently facing. Now, envision Christ standing beside you, declaring, “You are more than a conqueror through Me.” His love empowers us to face each day with courage, knowing that His victory secures ours.
In moments of distress, turn to Christ, turn to His word, and pray. He is not only the conqueror of external challenges but also the comforter of our hearts. In His love, we find comfort, strength, and the assurance that no trial can separate us from Him.
So, dear friend, face your day with confidence. You are not merely surviving; you are thriving in the victory of Christ. Embrace the truth that you are more than a conqueror, and let His love be the anchor that steadies your soul.
Prayer for the individual as well as the body of Christ
Heavenly Father, thank You for the incredible victory we have in Christ. In moments of weakness, help us to remember that we are more than conquerors through Him who loves us. May Your love be our source of strength, comfort, and unwavering confidence. In Jesus’ name, we pray. Amen.
by Jamie Pantastico | Dec 15, 2023 | Daily Encouragement |
Introduction
Understanding the context of Luke Chapter One is vital. Rather than rushing ahead to what was revealed to the apostle Paul, a common mistake in most of Christendom, it’s essential to grasp the Bible’s progressive revelation. Properly dividing the Word of Truth reveals a clear understanding, making the Bible both comprehensible and engaging. Attempting to force Paul’s revelations into the four gospels and early Acts causes confusion and division. By approaching the Scriptures with discernment and respecting their chronological unfolding, the richness of God’s message becomes apparent. Mixing God’s Word to fit a particular theology or denominational tradition can hinder the true unity within the body of Christ.
Luke initiates his gospel, breaking the 400 years of silence that followed Malachi’s last words. He picks up precisely where Malachi left off, emphasizing the continuity of Old Testament promises made to Israel, starting with Abraham. The closing verses of the Old Testament anticipate the arrival of someone to pave the way for the Lord. In continuity with this expectation, Luke opens with the angel Gabriel announcing to Zacharias, an elderly priest, that he and his wife will have a son. This son, in the spirit of Elijah the prophet, will turn the hearts of fathers to their children and prepare the way for the Lord. Luke establishes a seamless connection, presenting this son as the fulfillment of Malachi’s prophecy.
Malachi’s prophecy, like all Old Testament prophecies, is specifically addressed to and intended for the nation of Israel. This pattern remains consistent in Luke and the other gospels, with the focus remaining on Israel rather than the Gentile world.
Beloved, rest assured that God had the Gentile world in His divine plan from the very beginning. This was all part of God’s sovereign design, established before the beginning of time as we know it. God, in His sovereignty, knew that Israel would reject Him in unbelief, and He also foresaw the need to send His only Son, Jesus Christ, not only for the redemption of His chosen people but to reconcile the whole world to Himself (2 Corinthians 5:19). However, it’s crucial to approach the study of Luke and the four gospels by recognizing that Christ initially came to His people, the people of Israel. It’s essential not to impose Gentiles or the body of Christ into a timeframe or scriptural context where they do not belong.
Luke 1: The Old Testament Continued
The misconception that Luke or Matthew Chapter 1 marks the beginning of Christianity is incorrect. Instead, it is a continuation of God’s dealings with Israel based on Old Testament covenants and promises.
Christ’s imminent arrival, as announced by the angel in Luke 1, does not initially convey the message of faith alone in His death on the cross, His burial, and His resurrection as the means for salvation. It primarily signifies the fulfillment of God’s promise to the Nation of Israel, which is Israel’s King and a glorious kingdom. (Romans 15:8).
The Four Gospels, within this (literal-in-time) context, are predominantly Jewish. The nation of Israel is operating under the law, with the Temple functioning, sacrifices offered, and maintaining all 613 laws under Judaism. It is only later, through Paul, and not before, that the understanding of not being under the law is revealed and salvation to the Gentile world is offered. The Bible unfolds progressively, and Luke Chapter 1 serves as an introduction to Christ’s first Advent to the Nation of Israel as the promised King. Pastors and theologians commit great violence to God’s word when they force the body of Christ into Luke 1 or any of the four gospels. Yes, the four gospels are building blocks (Romans 15:4), but to teach Luke 1 as doctrine and salvation for the body of Christ is erroneous.
Luke 1:30–33 states, “And the angel said unto her, `Fear not, Mary, for thou hast found favour with God. And, behold, thou shall conceive in thy womb, and bring forth a son, and shalt call his name JESUS. He shall be great, and shall be called the Son of the Highest: and the Lord God shall give unto him the throne of his father David.'” This stems directly from Old Testament promises. Verses 67–74 of Luke 1 emphasize Zacharias’ prophetic blessing, centered on the Lord God of Israel (not the Gentiles) coming to Israel as promised throughout the Old Testament. To crush Israel’s enemies: Who were Israel’s enemies? The Gentiles), to be their King and to set up a glorious kingdom. With their Messiah, Jesus, ruling as King of kings from David’s throne in Jerusalem, again, Luke 1, and the entire book of Luke is a continuation of the Old Testament narrative, fulfilling promises made to the fathers (Abraham, Isaac, and Jacob).
Takeaway
As we study the New Testament, remember that the Lord’s first advent was to the lost sheep of the house of Israel (Matthew 10:5–6; Matthew 15:24), and Jesus was a minister of the circumcision to confirm promises made to the fathers (Romans 15:8). Acts 10 underscores the Jewish adherence to the law and Peter’s initial reluctance to embrace Gentiles. Lastly, in Acts 11:19, which is approximately 12 years after Pentecost, just after the stoning of Stephen, the Jewish believers (Jews who believed that Jesus was the Christ “Messiah”) are scattered because of Paul’s persecution. All that is being preached is the Old Testament (that Jesus was the Christ), AND TO WHO? JEWS ONLY.
Beloved, rest assured that God had the Gentile world in His divine plan from the very beginning. This was all part of God’s sovereign design, established before the beginning of time as we know it. God, in His sovereignty, knew that Israel would reject Him in unbelief, and He also foresaw the need to send His only Son, Jesus Christ, not only for the redemption of His chosen people but for the reconciliation of the entire world to Himself. However, it’s crucial to approach the study of Luke and the four gospels by recognizing that Christ initially came to His own people, the nation of Israel. It’s essential not to impose Gentiles or the body of Christ into a timeframe or scriptural context where they do not belong.
The progressive revelation unfolds, paving the way for God’s turning to the Gentiles through the Apostle Paul.
‘For whatever things were written before were written for our learning, that we through the patience and comfort of the Scriptures might have hope. ‘
Romans 15:4
by Jamie Pantastico | Dec 14, 2023 | Daily Encouragement |
‘Therefore by the deeds of the law no flesh will be justified in His sight, for by the law is the knowledge of sin.’
Romans 3:20
Introduction:
In Romans 3:20, the Apostle Paul emphatically declares that no one can be justified (saved) by keeping the law. The law, given to Moses, serves as a moral compass but cannot save us; instead, it exposes our shortcomings and condemns us. The law’s purpose is not to provide salvation but to highlight our need for it.
The Ministry of Death:
‘But if the ministry of death, written and engraved on stones, was glorious, so that the children of Israel could not look steadily at the face of Moses because of the glory of his countenance, which glory was passing away, ‘
II Corinthians 3:7
As 2 Corinthians 3:7 reveals, the law is the ministry of death. Its righteous standards are impossible for humans to fully meet; they condemn rather than redeem. However, there’s a pivotal shift in understanding what’s required for salvation when we turn to the very next verses, Romans 3:21–22.
Salvation by Faith Alone:
‘But now the righteousness of God apart from the law is revealed, being witnessed by the law and the prophets, even the righteousness of God, through faith in Jesus Christ, to all and on all who believe. For there is no difference; ‘
Romans 3:21-22
Romans 3:21–22 illuminates the heart of the gospel. Paul, having received this revelation from the ascended Lord, underscores that salvation comes through faith alone in the gospel (1 Corinthians 15:1–4)—the death, burial, and resurrection, apart from the law. This truth, though undermined by most of Christendom, is the ONLY means for salvation for mankind today.
Conclusion:
The law’s role is to convict and condemn, but faith in Christ brings righteousness. As you study these verses, grasp the profound simplicity: salvation is a gift (Romans 5:15) received by grace through faith alone in the finished work of the cross. Embrace this truth, allowing it to transform your understanding of God’s amazing grace.
Verses Used:
Romans 3:20
2 Corinthians 3:7
Romans 3:21-22
1 Corinthians 15:1-4
Romans 5:15
Reminder: Take time to study and reflect on these verses to deepen your understanding of God’s redemptive plan.
by Jamie Pantastico | Dec 9, 2023 | Daily Encouragement |
In the tough times we face, it’s like being caught in a never-ending storm where everything feels heavy and overwhelming. But guess what? We have something incredible to hold on to—God’s promises. The Bible verses below (5 from the Old Testament and 5 from the New Testament) are powerful reminders that, even when life gets tough, we’re not alone. God, who loves us like a caring Shepherd and our ultimate Savior, says, “Cast all your anxieties on Him because He cares for you.”
So, dive into these Bible verses, read them several times, pray, and share them with others who are also facing tough challenges.
In the middle of the darkest and most difficult times, these verses show us how to find strength that goes beyond what we can figure out. In other words, we don’t need to ask God (even though we all do). Why is this happening to me? But instead, we put our trust in Him and praise Him because God is with us, and all things work together for good for those who love God.
God’s word is our source of peace, reminding us that even when things look like there is no way out of the storm, God is right there to help and comfort us. Let’s use these verses as a guide, trusting that God’s got our backs through every tough moment.
Old Testament
1. Psalm 34:17–18
“The righteous cry out, and the Lord hears,
And delivers them out of all their troubles.
The Lord is near to those who have a broken heart,
And saves such as have a contrite spirit.”
2. Isaiah 41:10
“Fear not, for I am with you;
Be not dismayed, for I am your God.
I will strengthen you,
Yes, I will help you,
I will uphold you with My righteous right hand.”
3. Psalm 23:4
“Yea, though I walk through the valley of the shadow of death,
I will fear no evil;
For You are with me;
Your rod and Your staff, they comfort me.”
4. Jeremiah 29:11
“For I know the thoughts that I think toward you, says the Lord,
thoughts of peace and not of evil, to give you a future and a hope.”
5. Psalm 46:1–2
“God is our refuge and strength,
A very present help in trouble.
Therefore, we will not fear,
Even though the earth be removed,
And though the mountains be carried into the midst of the sea.”
New Testament
1. Matthew 11:28–30
“Come to Me, all you who labor and are heavy laden,
and I will give you rest. Take My yoke upon you and learn from Me,
for I am gentle and lowly in heart, and you will find rest for your souls.”
2. Philippians 4:6-7
“Be anxious for nothing, but in everything by prayer and supplication,
with thanksgiving, let your requests be made known to God;
and the peace of God, which surpasses all understanding,
will guard your hearts and minds through Christ Jesus.”
3. John 14:27
“Peace I leave with you, My peace I give to you;
not as the world gives do I give to you.
Let not your heart be troubled, neither let it be afraid.”
4. Romans 8:28
“And we know that all things work together for good to those who love God,
to those who are the called according to His purpose.”
5. 2 Corinthians 1:3–4
“Blessed be the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, the Father of mercies
and God of all comfort, who comforts us in all our tribulation,
that we may be able to comfort those who are in any trouble,
with the comfort with which we ourselves are comforted by God.”