Romans 1:7 to all who are beloved of God in Rome, called as saints: Grace to you and peace from God our Father and the Lord Jesus Christ.
Paul had all the beloved of God in Rome in view as he wrote this incredible letter. The Holy Spirit has us in view as well, for we too are loved by God. How do we know we are loved by God? The Lord Jesus Christ is with us, living His life in us. That makes us Holy ones, saints. When Paul wrote that they were called as saints, he was stating the basis of God’s love. They had been set apart by the Holy Spirit when He united or incorporated them into Jesus. When did that call take place? In eternity! Listen as Paul described that calling to Timothy. In 2 Timothy 1:9, speaking of God, “who has saved us and called us with a holy calling, not according to our works, but according to His own purpose and grace which was granted us in Christ Jesus from all eternity.”
We have been known and loved by God in Christ, called as saints, holy ones to the Lord, before the world was created. Therein lies the fountain of the grace and peace we have from God our Father and the Lord Jesus Christ. The grace to love with Jesus flows out of our union with Jesus. Experiencing and expressing His love is the proof that we have peace with God through Jesus. We know we are the beloved of God! May grace and peace be yours in fullest measure!
Acknowledgment: Music from “Carried by the Father” by Eric Terlizzi. www.ericterlizzi.com
