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Pathways Through Paul
Daily Devotional
January 6
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Today's Pathway:
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Thus far, Paul has spoken about who he is and about Who Jesus is. Now he turns his focus to the people in the church at Rome. In verse 7 he makes two observations about them, which are statements that can also be made about all who have received Christ as Savior. First, he calls them "beloved of God". It is true that God loves the entire world (John 3:16). Yet, Paul seems to emphasize to these Christians the fact that God loves them in a special way. The Greek word that is translated as "beloved" is agapetos, and comes from the Greek word agape, which is used to show deep, unconditional love. Agapetos is the same word that God the Father used when He spoke audibly about Jesus at both His baptism (Matt 3:17) and at His transfiguration (Matt 17:5). I find it interesting that, while God does "agape" the world, the word agapetos is used exclusively in the Bible for Christ and believers. Therefore, if God loves His children as He loves His only begotten Son, and considers us to be "beloved", then His love for us must be truly immeasurable.
Paul next says that the Roman believers were "called to be saints". The word "saint" has been so misused over the centuries that many do not understand what it means. Saints in the Scriptures are simply those who have received Christ. There are no special qualifications or conditions that a Christian must meet in order to become a saint. As soon as a person is born again, he or she is a saint. However, the word "saint" does have meaning. It means to be "set apart". It is often translated "holy", and is the word used for the "Holy" Spirit. Thus, when the Lord saves someone, He expects that person to live a life that is holy and separated from the sinfulness of the world. I Peter 1:15 says,
"But as he which hath called you is holy, so be ye holy in all manner of conversation."
Every facet of the believer's life is to be set apart from sin, just like God Himself is set apart from sin.
As believers, let's thank God today for His great love to us, and strive to show our appreciation for that love by living the holy lifestyle that would reflect Who our loving Heavenly Father is.
Pastor Mark J Montgomery
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