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In Romans 8:28-29 we see what theologians call the “golden chain of redemption.” Like links in a chain, Paul strings together the stages of our salvation to assure us of God’s saving work in our lives. He begins with God’s FOREKNOWLEDGE, which is a recognition that God knows ahead of time what will happen in human history and who will come to a saving faith in Jesus. From there, we move to the concept of PREDESTINATION, a loaded Biblical word that means God not only knew beforehand but, based on that foreknowledge, destined that we would be saved. From there, we see that those people are CALLED, which means that the Spirit of God brings them into a saving relationship with God. Those who enter a relationship with God are JUSTIFIED, a legal status we have before God, declaring us not only “not guilty” but also totally righteous in Christ. Finally, those who are justified by faith will one day be GLORIFIED, which means that we will be resurrected to eternal life with God. This Golden Chain is meant to give those of us who have been justified – meaning all born-again believers – confidence that the same God who foreknew us, predestined us, called us, and justified us will one day glorify us when His Son Jesus returns!

This can bring up questions about foreknowledge, predestination, free will, and the scope of salvation. Theologians have wrestled with these questions for centuries, and Bible-believing Christians are free to disagree on them and retain fellowship. But I plead with you today not to let those very important questions keep you from rejoicing in this simple truth; He who began a good work in you will carry it on to completion on the day of Christ Jesus. (Philippians 1:6) The same God who justified you will glorify you; it is on that truth that you can take your stand and put your hope!

Final Thought: Thank God for the wonderful future He has promised you!

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