Notes on Romans 1:6-7

For the remainder of notes on Romans 1:1-5; 8-17 go here https://istwenty63.blogspot.com/2020/07/notes-on-romans-11-17.html

Verse 6:  among whom you also are the called of Jesus Christ;

The Amplified version says it this way: 

and you also are among those who are called of Jesus Christ to belong to Him;

Those who respond to the gospel and believe are the called of Jesus Christ. I love the way the amplified version says it....called to belong to Him. ❤️❤️

Verse 7: To all who are in Rome, beloved of God, called to be saints: Grace to you and peace from God our Father and the Lord Jesus Christ. 

Paul’s greeting...Paul had never been to Rome ...this makes Romans different from Paul’s other letters because most of his letters were to churches he had founded.  He did know some of the Christians who resided in Rome because he mentions them at the end of this letter in Chapter 16. I love how Paul reminds them of the truth of who they are in verse 7...they are:

—beloved of God - God has set His love on me.   I am loved by God...a favorite...beloved, esteemed, dear, worthy of love

—called to be saints - God has set me apart from sin unto Him 

Next, comes Paul’s favorite greeting...one he uses in all his letters.  —Grace to you and peace -  Grace and peace are gifts that come

from God our Father and the Lord Jesus Christ.  They are often  coupled together.  It is appropriate that grace is first and then peace because you can't have peace with God until you've first experienced His grace. Similarly, peace with God is necessary before you can have the peace of God.  Explanations coming...

The basic meaning of “grace” is unmerited, undeserved favor; 

Peace with God is a result of God’s saving grace. 

Therefore, since we have been justified by faith, we have peace with God through our Lord Jesus Christ. (Romans 5:1, ESV)

The result of our justification is that we have peace with God.  Prior to our salvation we were his enemies.  Salvation brings that long war to an end.  

Peace of God - divine origin; God’s peace guards or keeps watch over believers. It guards them from anxiety, doubt, fear and distress.  I am united with Christ...he guards my inner being.  Peace Himself dwells in me.  He is my peace. 

After I recognize that the grace of God is not dependent on anything I do, I can then experience the peace of Godbecause I stop striving.  I realize that His blessings are not earned by my merit or my goodness.  I trust in His steadfast love toward me and commit myself completely into His care.  He will complete the good work He began in me.  I BELIEVE God. ❤️

"These things I have spoken to you, that “IN Me” you may have peace. In the world you will have tribulation; but be of good cheer, I have overcome the world."—John 16:33

And let the peace of Christ rule in your hearts, to which indeed you were called in one body. And be thankful. (Colossians 3:15, ESV)

Father,  Give me a thankful attitude knowing that Your will for me comes from Your heart of love.  Your steadfast love toward me never ceases.  I can be completely confident that You are sovereign and can and will do what is best for me always.  Let Your peace rule my heart.