27 Creation Groans, Ro 8:17-28

The road to the promised land travels through a wilderness of suffering. And there’s no getting away from that reality. We aren’t in heaven yet. This planet is still cursed, and our bodies are still dying, so indeed suffering in one form or another comes to all of us – not because we’ve done something wrong, or because God has failed to protect us, but simply because we aren’t home yet. We’re travelers, sojourners, strangers dwelling for a season in a harsh land and enduring along with everyone else the sufferings of that troubled place. Yes, God provides much protection, but He gives us no promise we won’t suffer, in fact we’re assured we will. In these last few chapters of Romans (6-8), Paul has been teaching on the spiritual realities that take place inside a person, but here at the end of this discussion he turns our attention outward and shows us the fallen world in which we live. He wants us to face reality boldly. Though glorious changes take place inside every believer and an amazing future is waiting for us all, we still wake up day after day in the “wilderness” of this present age, so he needs to teach us some foundational truths so we can walk this path victoriously. To receive a free copy of Dr. Steve Schell's book Understanding Romans, email us at [email protected] and ask for your copy at no charge. The book has all the notes from each sermon in this series. Also check out our website at lifelessonspublishing.com for additional resources for pastors and leaders. We have recorded classes and other materials offered at no charge. And if you would like to receive a copy of Pastor Steve's newest book Study Verse by Verse: Revelation at no charge, we are still giving this book out as well!