I Am Convinced: A Devotional Appropriation of Romans 8 to the Life of the Pastor

Abstract

This essay is intended to be a cool gospel drink—and in rich measure! A man rooted in the gospel will bear gospel fruits in his ministry. He must be filled with the confidence of Christ if he is to put his hand to overseeing a vibrant parish life in the years ahead. While nothing can separate the under-shepherd from the love of Christ, there is plenty in life that threatens to separate a man from the Word of Christ. This essay, therefore, will also serve as an encouragement to deepen our private devotional life. In turn, the pastor can take a devotional lead in the home, at church, and in our communities. He will be a source of Christ-centered encouragement to other brothers in our fellowship. Through this exposition of the gospel, we desire that pastors be renewed, refreshed, and restored for their lives of ministry.

Physical illnesses show us the fragility and despair of death in this world. Moreover, it points out our need for The Physician and to be at peace with God. Through Romans 8 (with the background of Romans 7), Paul anguished internally in his wretchedness and sinful nature. Thus, “the law has done its faithful wounding.” God then relieves us of our guilt in chapter 8. Christ had passed through and redeemed every stage of life. He was subjected to crucifixion, “the absolute degradation of its victim.” Through which, we are redeemed. Though we continually struggle with our flesh and sin, the Spirit of Sonship tells us that we are children of God. We can call him “Abba.” God knows us, and we know that God cares for us as a father does for a child. Our “Prodigal God” has given us everything to redeem us. Through Christ, he made us conquerors over the afflictions of this life. Therefore, we return to God’s word in our personal devotions to be reminded of Christ’s marvelous truth. This is the appropriation of all the gifts and promises of Christ, to be in fellowship with Jesus, to remember Christ’s forgiveness for the sinner. Furthermore, God has given pastors the gift of fellowship with brothers. In our confession, our brothers give us the loosing key and the Word of Christ. To our brothers, we are able to stand in the stead of and by the command of our Lord Jesus Christ to forgive the sins that plague our brothers.