Romans 8:33-34 – Who shall bring a charge against God’s elect? It is God who justifies. Who is he who condemns? It is Christ who died, and furthermore is also risen, who is even at the right hand of God, who also makes intercession for us.

Paul asks two questions in these verses that are legal in nature. The first question is, “Who shall bring a charge against God’s elect?” Satan is identified as “the accuser” of God’s people in Revelation 12:10. The bad news is, his accusations are valid, because they are based on the believer’s sinfulness and defilement. But, the great news is, Satan’s accusations will be thrown out of court, because it is God who justifies. The Judge Himself declares the accused person righteous on the basis of his faith in Jesus Christ. As a result all accusations are dismissed and no one can bring an accusation that will stand. The second question is, “Who is he who condemns?” In the Greek this has the future sense, “will condemn,” which is preferable here. Jesus Christ is God’s appointed Judge, so Paul answered this question by stating, Christ Jesus. Because Jesus is the very One whom the believer has trusted for salvation. Furthermore, He is the One who died, and more than that, who was raised to life, who is at the right hand of God, and is also interceding for us. The Lord Jesus Christ is indeed the Judge, but He is also the One with whom each believer is identified by faith. As a result, He is your Sacrifice for sin, your new life, your Intercessor and your Defense (1 John 2:1). Certainly the Judge will not condemn His own who are in Him by faith!

Challenge:

Living in the power of the resurrection of Jesus is available to all who believe in the finished work upon the cross and the empty tomb that could not hold Christ! Jesus cleansed you from your sin on the cross and He gave you eternal life by leaving the tomb. Your challenge this week is to reject the accusations and threats the enemy would have you believe and stand in the freedom Jesus has given to you. Do not allow your mind to dwell upon your past mistakes. Do not entertain any lie that would have you believe that you are less than unconditionally loved by God. When you are in Christ, you are, as Peter puts it, a chosen generation, a royal priesthood, a holy nation, His own special people (1 Peter 2:9). God has set you apart to stand out in this world and proclaim His praises and His power! Rejoice in the Lord and let everyone know why you are so grateful to Him for His endless blessings and His unfailing love. He is Risen and He will raise you too! May God bless you richly.