Useful Bible Studies > Romans Commentary > chapter 5
Some Christians are so weak that they seem ashamed of almost everything in their lives. However, Paul shows that Christians can and should speak boldly about many things.
Christians can speak boldly and with joy about the hope that God has given them (5:2). They can be sure that God will do good things in their lives. God’s promises are certain; he will not disappoint them (Hebrews 6:17-19).
They can even be so bold that they speak joyfully about their troubles (5:3). Of course, they are not pleased about their troubles. They are pleased about the way that God is working in their lives during their troubles (8:28).
However, in the end, a Christian’s joy must not be mainly about himself, but about God. Of course we are joyful about the wonderful things that God is doing for us (1 Corinthians 2:9). However, we should be even more joyful that our God is so wonderful. We must not allow our beliefs as Christians to become an excuse for selfish attitudes (1 Corinthians 4:6-10). Rather, our attention must be upon God. His character is perfect (Exodus 34:6-7); his love is great (5:6-8). He alone deserves that we should praise him (Revelation 22:8-9). All honour and greatness in heaven and on earth belong to him (Revelation 4:11). If we desire to speak about truly great and wonderful things, we must speak about him (1 Corinthians 1:31).
Next part: Paul compares Adam and Christ (Romans 5:12-14)
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