Noah: A Covenant With Humanity

1 Samuel 1-7: The Call of a Prophet

Still Standing

How God's Goodness Changes Everything

The Urgency of Slowing Down

Let Your Light Shine by Vance K. Jackson

Between Borders

Politics for People Who Hate Politics

House of David

Opening the Road to the Kingdom of God

The Listener’s Bible®: NIV Edition

New International Version™  (Anglicised), Audio Edition

Holy Bible, New International Version™ (Anglicised), South Asian Audio Edition

<div class="version vid111 iso6393eng" data-vid="111" data-iso6393="eng">
   <div class="book bkPRO">
      <div class="chapter ch18" data-usfm="PRO.18">
         <div class="label">18</div><div class="q1"><span class="content">  </span><span class="verse v1" data-usfm="PRO.18.1"><span class="label">1</span><span class="content">An unfriendly person pursues selfish ends</span></span></div><div class="q2"><span class="verse v1" data-usfm="PRO.18.1"><span class="content">and against all sound judgment starts quarrels.</span></span></div><div class="b"></div><div class="q1"><span class="verse v1" data-usfm="PRO.18.1"><span class="content">  </span></span><span class="verse v2" data-usfm="PRO.18.2"><span class="label">2</span><span class="content">Fools find no pleasure in understanding</span></span></div><div class="q2"><span class="verse v2" data-usfm="PRO.18.2"><span class="content">but delight in airing their own opinions.</span></span></div><div class="b"></div><div class="q1"><span class="verse v2" data-usfm="PRO.18.2"><span class="content">  </span></span><span class="verse v3" data-usfm="PRO.18.3"><span class="label">3</span><span class="content">When wickedness comes, so does contempt,</span></span></div><div class="q2"><span class="verse v3" data-usfm="PRO.18.3"><span class="content">and with shame comes reproach.</span></span></div><div class="b"></div><div class="q1"><span class="verse v3" data-usfm="PRO.18.3"><span class="content">  </span></span><span class="verse v4" data-usfm="PRO.18.4"><span class="label">4</span><span class="content">The words of the mouth are deep waters,</span></span></div><div class="q2"><span class="verse v4" data-usfm="PRO.18.4"><span class="content">but the fountain of wisdom is a rushing stream.</span></span></div><div class="b"></div><div class="q1"><span class="verse v4" data-usfm="PRO.18.4"><span class="content">  </span></span><span class="verse v5" data-usfm="PRO.18.5"><span class="label">5</span><span class="content">It is not good to be partial to the wicked</span></span></div><div class="q2"><span class="verse v5" data-usfm="PRO.18.5"><span class="content">and so deprive the innocent of justice.</span></span></div><div class="b"></div><div class="q1"><span class="verse v5" data-usfm="PRO.18.5"><span class="content">  </span></span><span class="verse v6" data-usfm="PRO.18.6"><span class="label">6</span><span class="content">The lips of fools bring them strife,</span></span></div><div class="q2"><span class="verse v6" data-usfm="PRO.18.6"><span class="content">and their mouths invite a beating.</span></span></div><div class="b"></div><div class="q1"><span class="verse v6" data-usfm="PRO.18.6"><span class="content">  </span></span><span class="verse v7" data-usfm="PRO.18.7"><span class="label">7</span><span class="content">The mouths of fools are their undoing,</span></span></div><div class="q2"><span class="verse v7" data-usfm="PRO.18.7"><span class="content">and their lips are a snare to their very lives.</span></span></div><div class="b"></div><div class="q1"><span class="verse v7" data-usfm="PRO.18.7"><span class="content">  </span></span><span class="verse v8" data-usfm="PRO.18.8"><span class="label">8</span><span class="content">The words of a gossip are like choice morsels;</span></span></div><div class="q2"><span class="verse v8" data-usfm="PRO.18.8"><span class="content">they go down to the inmost parts.</span></span></div><div class="b"></div><div class="q1"><span class="verse v8" data-usfm="PRO.18.8"><span class="content">  </span></span><span class="verse v9" data-usfm="PRO.18.9"><span class="label">9</span><span class="content">One who is slack in his work</span></span></div><div class="q2"><span class="verse v9" data-usfm="PRO.18.9"><span class="content">is brother to one who destroys.</span></span></div><div class="b"></div><div class="q1"><span class="verse v9" data-usfm="PRO.18.9"><span class="content">  </span></span><span class="verse v10" data-usfm="PRO.18.10"><span class="label">10</span><span class="content">The name of the </span><span class="nd"><span class="content">Lord</span></span><span class="content"> is a fortified tower;</span></span></div><div class="q2"><span class="verse v10" data-usfm="PRO.18.10"><span class="content">the righteous run to it and are safe.</span></span></div><div class="b"></div><div class="q1"><span class="verse v10" data-usfm="PRO.18.10"><span class="content">  </span></span><span class="verse v11" data-usfm="PRO.18.11"><span class="label">11</span><span class="content">The wealth of the rich is their fortified city;</span></span></div><div class="q2"><span class="verse v11" data-usfm="PRO.18.11"><span class="content">they imagine it a wall too high to scale.</span></span></div><div class="b"></div><div class="q1"><span class="verse v11" data-usfm="PRO.18.11"><span class="content">  </span></span><span class="verse v12" data-usfm="PRO.18.12"><span class="label">12</span><span class="content">Before a downfall the heart is haughty,</span></span></div><div class="q2"><span class="verse v12" data-usfm="PRO.18.12"><span class="content">but humility comes before honor.</span></span></div><div class="b"></div><div class="q1"><span class="verse v12" data-usfm="PRO.18.12"><span class="content">  </span></span><span class="verse v13" data-usfm="PRO.18.13"><span class="label">13</span><span class="content">To answer before listening&#8212;</span></span></div><div class="q2"><span class="verse v13" data-usfm="PRO.18.13"><span class="content">that is folly and shame.</span></span></div><div class="b"></div><div class="q1"><span class="verse v13" data-usfm="PRO.18.13"><span class="content">  </span></span><span class="verse v14" data-usfm="PRO.18.14"><span class="label">14</span><span class="content">The human spirit can endure in sickness,</span></span></div><div class="q2"><span class="verse v14" data-usfm="PRO.18.14"><span class="content">but a crushed spirit who can bear?</span></span></div><div class="b"></div><div class="q1"><span class="verse v14" data-usfm="PRO.18.14"><span class="content">  </span></span><span class="verse v15" data-usfm="PRO.18.15"><span class="label">15</span><span class="content">The heart of the discerning acquires knowledge,</span></span></div><div class="q2"><span class="verse v15" data-usfm="PRO.18.15"><span class="content">for the ears of the wise seek it out.</span></span></div><div class="b"></div><div class="q1"><span class="verse v15" data-usfm="PRO.18.15"><span class="content">  </span></span><span class="verse v16" data-usfm="PRO.18.16"><span class="label">16</span><span class="content">A gift opens the way</span></span></div><div class="q2"><span class="verse v16" data-usfm="PRO.18.16"><span class="content">and ushers the giver into the presence of the great.</span></span></div><div class="b"></div><div class="q1"><span class="verse v16" data-usfm="PRO.18.16"><span class="content">  </span></span><span class="verse v17" data-usfm="PRO.18.17"><span class="label">17</span><span class="content">In a lawsuit the first to speak seems right,</span></span></div><div class="q2"><span class="verse v17" data-usfm="PRO.18.17"><span class="content">until someone comes forward and cross-examines.</span></span></div><div class="b"></div><div class="q1"><span class="verse v17" data-usfm="PRO.18.17"><span class="content">  </span></span><span class="verse v18" data-usfm="PRO.18.18"><span class="label">18</span><span class="content">Casting the lot settles disputes</span></span></div><div class="q2"><span class="verse v18" data-usfm="PRO.18.18"><span class="content">and keeps strong opponents apart.</span></span></div><div class="b"></div><div class="q1"><span class="verse v18" data-usfm="PRO.18.18"><span class="content">  </span></span><span class="verse v19" data-usfm="PRO.18.19"><span class="label">19</span><span class="content">A brother wronged is more unyielding than a fortified city;</span></span></div><div class="q2"><span class="verse v19" data-usfm="PRO.18.19"><span class="content">disputes are like the barred gates of a citadel.</span></span></div><div class="b"></div><div class="q1"><span class="verse v19" data-usfm="PRO.18.19"><span class="content">  </span></span><span class="verse v20" data-usfm="PRO.18.20"><span class="label">20</span><span class="content">From the fruit of their mouth a person&#8217;s stomach is filled;</span></span></div><div class="q2"><span class="verse v20" data-usfm="PRO.18.20"><span class="content">with the harvest of their lips they are satisfied.</span></span></div><div class="b"></div><div class="q1"><span class="verse v20" data-usfm="PRO.18.20"><span class="content">  </span></span><span class="verse v21" data-usfm="PRO.18.21"><span class="label">21</span><span class="content">The tongue has the power of life and death,</span></span></div><div class="q2"><span class="verse v21" data-usfm="PRO.18.21"><span class="content">and those who love it will eat its fruit.</span></span></div><div class="b"></div><div class="q1"><span class="verse v21" data-usfm="PRO.18.21"><span class="content">  </span></span><span class="verse v22" data-usfm="PRO.18.22"><span class="label">22</span><span class="content">He who finds a wife finds what is good</span></span></div><div class="q2"><span class="verse v22" data-usfm="PRO.18.22"><span class="content">and receives favor from the </span><span class="nd"><span class="content">Lord</span></span><span class="content">.</span></span></div><div class="b"></div><div class="q1"><span class="verse v22" data-usfm="PRO.18.22"><span class="content">  </span></span><span class="verse v23" data-usfm="PRO.18.23"><span class="label">23</span><span class="content">The poor plead for mercy,</span></span></div><div class="q2"><span class="verse v23" data-usfm="PRO.18.23"><span class="content">but the rich answer harshly.</span></span></div><div class="b"></div><div class="q1"><span class="verse v23" data-usfm="PRO.18.23"><span class="content">  </span></span><span class="verse v24" data-usfm="PRO.18.24"><span class="label">24</span><span class="content">One who has unreliable friends soon comes to ruin,</span></span></div><div class="q2"><span class="verse v24" data-usfm="PRO.18.24"><span class="content">but there is a friend who sticks closer than a brother.</span></span></div><div class="b"></div>
      </div>
   </div>
</div>

<div class="version vid111 iso6393eng" data-vid="111" data-iso6393="eng">
   <div class="book bkPSA">
      <div class="chapter ch91" data-usfm="PSA.91">
         <div class="label">91</div><div class="cl"><span class="heading">Psalm 91</span></div><div class="q1"><span class="content">  </span><span class="verse v1" data-usfm="PSA.91.1"><span class="label">1</span><span class="content">Whoever dwells in the shelter of the Most High</span></span></div><div class="q2"><span class="verse v1" data-usfm="PSA.91.1"><span class="content">will rest in the shadow of the Almighty.</span><span class="note f"><span class="label">#</span><span class=" body"><span class="fr">91:1 </span><span class="ft">Hebrew </span><span class="fqa">Shaddai</span></span></span></span></div><div class="q1"><span class="verse v1" data-usfm="PSA.91.1"><span class="content">  </span></span><span class="verse v2" data-usfm="PSA.91.2"><span class="label">2</span><span class="content">I will say of the </span><span class="nd"><span class="content">Lord</span></span><span class="content">, &#8220;He is my refuge and my fortress,</span></span></div><div class="q2"><span class="verse v2" data-usfm="PSA.91.2"><span class="content">my God, in whom I trust.&#8221;</span></span></div><div class="b"></div><div class="q1"><span class="verse v2" data-usfm="PSA.91.2"><span class="content">  </span></span><span class="verse v3" data-usfm="PSA.91.3"><span class="label">3</span><span class="content">Surely he will save you</span></span></div><div class="q2"><span class="verse v3" data-usfm="PSA.91.3"><span class="content">from the fowler&#8217;s snare</span></span></div><div class="q2"><span class="verse v3" data-usfm="PSA.91.3"><span class="content">and from the deadly pestilence.</span></span></div><div class="q1"><span class="verse v3" data-usfm="PSA.91.3"><span class="content">  </span></span><span class="verse v4" data-usfm="PSA.91.4"><span class="label">4</span><span class="content">He will cover you with his feathers,</span></span></div><div class="q2"><span class="verse v4" data-usfm="PSA.91.4"><span class="content">and under his wings you will find refuge;</span></span></div><div class="q2"><span class="verse v4" data-usfm="PSA.91.4"><span class="content">his faithfulness will be your shield and rampart.</span></span></div><div class="q1"><span class="verse v4" data-usfm="PSA.91.4"><span class="content">  </span></span><span class="verse v5" data-usfm="PSA.91.5"><span class="label">5</span><span class="content">You will not fear the terror of night,</span></span></div><div class="q2"><span class="verse v5" data-usfm="PSA.91.5"><span class="content">nor the arrow that flies by day,</span></span></div><div class="q1"><span class="verse v5" data-usfm="PSA.91.5"><span class="content">  </span></span><span class="verse v6" data-usfm="PSA.91.6"><span class="label">6</span><span class="content">nor the pestilence that stalks in the darkness,</span></span></div><div class="q2"><span class="verse v6" data-usfm="PSA.91.6"><span class="content">nor the plague that destroys at midday.</span></span></div><div class="q1"><span class="verse v6" data-usfm="PSA.91.6"><span class="content">  </span></span><span class="verse v7" data-usfm="PSA.91.7"><span class="label">7</span><span class="content">A thousand may fall at your side,</span></span></div><div class="q2"><span class="verse v7" data-usfm="PSA.91.7"><span class="content">ten thousand at your right hand,</span></span></div><div class="q2"><span class="verse v7" data-usfm="PSA.91.7"><span class="content">but it will not come near you.</span></span></div><div class="q1"><span class="verse v7" data-usfm="PSA.91.7"><span class="content">  </span></span><span class="verse v8" data-usfm="PSA.91.8"><span class="label">8</span><span class="content">You will only observe with your eyes</span></span></div><div class="q2"><span class="verse v8" data-usfm="PSA.91.8"><span class="content">and see the punishment of the wicked.</span></span></div><div class="b"></div><div class="q1"><span class="verse v8" data-usfm="PSA.91.8"><span class="content">  </span></span><span class="verse v9" data-usfm="PSA.91.9"><span class="label">9</span><span class="content">If you say, &#8220;The </span><span class="nd"><span class="content">Lord</span></span><span class="content"> is my refuge,&#8221;</span></span></div><div class="q2"><span class="verse v9" data-usfm="PSA.91.9"><span class="content">and you make the Most High your dwelling,</span></span></div><div class="q1"><span class="verse v9" data-usfm="PSA.91.9"><span class="content">  </span></span><span class="verse v10" data-usfm="PSA.91.10"><span class="label">10</span><span class="content">no harm will overtake you,</span></span></div><div class="q2"><span class="verse v10" data-usfm="PSA.91.10"><span class="content">no disaster will come near your tent.</span></span></div><div class="q1"><span class="verse v10" data-usfm="PSA.91.10"><span class="content">  </span></span><span class="verse v11" data-usfm="PSA.91.11"><span class="label">11</span><span class="content">For he will command his angels concerning you</span></span></div><div class="q2"><span class="verse v11" data-usfm="PSA.91.11"><span class="content">to guard you in all your ways;</span></span></div><div class="q1"><span class="verse v11" data-usfm="PSA.91.11"><span class="content">  </span></span><span class="verse v12" data-usfm="PSA.91.12"><span class="label">12</span><span class="content">they will lift you up in their hands,</span></span></div><div class="q2"><span class="verse v12" data-usfm="PSA.91.12"><span class="content">so that you will not strike your foot against a stone.</span></span></div><div class="q1"><span class="verse v12" data-usfm="PSA.91.12"><span class="content">  </span></span><span class="verse v13" data-usfm="PSA.91.13"><span class="label">13</span><span class="content">You will tread on the lion and the cobra;</span></span></div><div class="q2"><span class="verse v13" data-usfm="PSA.91.13"><span class="content">you will trample the great lion and the serpent.</span></span></div><div class="b"></div><div class="q1"><span class="verse v13" data-usfm="PSA.91.13"><span class="content">  </span></span><span class="verse v14" data-usfm="PSA.91.14"><span class="label">14</span><span class="content">&#8220;Because he</span><span class="note f"><span class="label">#</span><span class=" body"><span class="fr">91:14 </span><span class="ft">That is, probably the king</span></span></span><span class="content"> loves me,&#8221; says the </span><span class="nd"><span class="content">Lord</span></span><span class="content">, &#8220;I will rescue him;</span></span></div><div class="q2"><span class="verse v14" data-usfm="PSA.91.14"><span class="content">I will protect him, for he acknowledges my name.</span></span></div><div class="q1"><span class="verse v14" data-usfm="PSA.91.14"><span class="content">  </span></span><span class="verse v15" data-usfm="PSA.91.15"><span class="label">15</span><span class="content">He will call on me, and I will answer him;</span></span></div><div class="q2"><span class="verse v15" data-usfm="PSA.91.15"><span class="content">I will be with him in trouble,</span></span></div><div class="q2"><span class="verse v15" data-usfm="PSA.91.15"><span class="content">I will deliver him and honor him.</span></span></div><div class="q1"><span class="verse v15" data-usfm="PSA.91.15"><span class="content">  </span></span><span class="verse v16" data-usfm="PSA.91.16"><span class="label">16</span><span class="content">With long life I will satisfy him</span></span></div><div class="q2"><span class="verse v16" data-usfm="PSA.91.16"><span class="content">and show him my salvation.&#8221;</span></span></div>
      </div>
   </div>
</div>

<div class="version vid111 iso6393eng" data-vid="111" data-iso6393="eng">
   <div class="book bkREV">
      <div class="chapter ch18" data-usfm="REV.18">
         <div class="label">18</div><div class="s1"><span class="heading">Lament Over Fallen Babylon</span></div><div class="p"><span class="content">  </span><span class="verse v1" data-usfm="REV.18.1"><span class="label">1</span><span class="content">After this I saw another angel coming down from heaven. He had great authority, and the earth was illuminated by his splendor. </span></span><span class="verse v2" data-usfm="REV.18.2"><span class="label">2</span><span class="content">With a mighty voice he shouted:</span></span></div><div class="q1"><span class="verse v2" data-usfm="REV.18.2"><span class="content">&#8220;&#8198;&#8216;Fallen! Fallen is Babylon the Great!&#8217;</span><span class="note f"><span class="label">#</span><span class=" body"><span class="fr">18:2 </span><span class="ft">Isaiah 21:9</span></span></span></span></div><div class="q2"><span class="verse v2" data-usfm="REV.18.2"><span class="content">She has become a dwelling for demons</span></span></div><div class="q1"><span class="verse v2" data-usfm="REV.18.2"><span class="content">and a haunt for every impure spirit,</span></span></div><div class="q2"><span class="verse v2" data-usfm="REV.18.2"><span class="content">a haunt for every unclean bird,</span></span></div><div class="q2"><span class="verse v2" data-usfm="REV.18.2"><span class="content">a haunt for every unclean and detestable animal.</span></span></div><div class="q1"><span class="verse v2" data-usfm="REV.18.2"><span class="content">  </span></span><span class="verse v3" data-usfm="REV.18.3"><span class="label">3</span><span class="content">For all the nations have drunk</span></span></div><div class="q2"><span class="verse v3" data-usfm="REV.18.3"><span class="content">the maddening wine of her adulteries.</span></span></div><div class="q1"><span class="verse v3" data-usfm="REV.18.3"><span class="content">The kings of the earth committed adultery with her,</span></span></div><div class="q2"><span class="verse v3" data-usfm="REV.18.3"><span class="content">and the merchants of the earth grew rich from her excessive luxuries.&#8221;</span></span></div><div class="s1"><span class="heading">Warning to Escape Babylon&#8217;s Judgment</span></div><div class="p"><span class="verse v3" data-usfm="REV.18.3"><span class="content">  </span></span><span class="verse v4" data-usfm="REV.18.4"><span class="label">4</span><span class="content">Then I heard another voice from heaven say:</span></span></div><div class="q1"><span class="verse v4" data-usfm="REV.18.4"><span class="content">&#8220;&#8198;&#8216;Come out of her, my people,&#8217;</span><span class="note f"><span class="label">#</span><span class=" body"><span class="fr">18:4 </span><span class="ft">Jer. 51:45</span></span></span></span></div><div class="q2"><span class="verse v4" data-usfm="REV.18.4"><span class="content">so that you will not share in her sins,</span></span></div><div class="q2"><span class="verse v4" data-usfm="REV.18.4"><span class="content">so that you will not receive any of her plagues;</span></span></div><div class="q1"><span class="verse v4" data-usfm="REV.18.4"><span class="content">  </span></span><span class="verse v5" data-usfm="REV.18.5"><span class="label">5</span><span class="content">for her sins are piled up to heaven,</span></span></div><div class="q2"><span class="verse v5" data-usfm="REV.18.5"><span class="content">and God has remembered her crimes.</span></span></div><div class="q1"><span class="verse v5" data-usfm="REV.18.5"><span class="content">  </span></span><span class="verse v6" data-usfm="REV.18.6"><span class="label">6</span><span class="content">Give back to her as she has given;</span></span></div><div class="q2"><span class="verse v6" data-usfm="REV.18.6"><span class="content">pay her back double for what she has done.</span></span></div><div class="q2"><span class="verse v6" data-usfm="REV.18.6"><span class="content">Pour her a double portion from her own cup.</span></span></div><div class="q1"><span class="verse v6" data-usfm="REV.18.6"><span class="content">  </span></span><span class="verse v7" data-usfm="REV.18.7"><span class="label">7</span><span class="content">Give her as much torment and grief</span></span></div><div class="q2"><span class="verse v7" data-usfm="REV.18.7"><span class="content">as the glory and luxury she gave herself.</span></span></div><div class="q1"><span class="verse v7" data-usfm="REV.18.7"><span class="content">In her heart she boasts,</span></span></div><div class="q2"><span class="verse v7" data-usfm="REV.18.7"><span class="content">&#8216;I sit enthroned as queen.</span></span></div><div class="q1"><span class="verse v7" data-usfm="REV.18.7"><span class="content">I am not a widow;</span><span class="note f"><span class="label">#</span><span class=" body"><span class="fr">18:7 </span><span class="ft">See Isaiah 47:7,8.</span></span></span></span></div><div class="q2"><span class="verse v7" data-usfm="REV.18.7"><span class="content">I will never mourn.&#8217;</span></span></div><div class="q1"><span class="verse v7" data-usfm="REV.18.7"><span class="content">  </span></span><span class="verse v8" data-usfm="REV.18.8"><span class="label">8</span><span class="content">Therefore in one day her plagues will overtake her:</span></span></div><div class="q2"><span class="verse v8" data-usfm="REV.18.8"><span class="content">death, mourning and famine.</span></span></div><div class="q1"><span class="verse v8" data-usfm="REV.18.8"><span class="content">She will be consumed by fire,</span></span></div><div class="q2"><span class="verse v8" data-usfm="REV.18.8"><span class="content">for mighty is the Lord God who judges her.</span></span></div><div class="s1"><span class="heading">Threefold Woe Over Babylon&#8217;s Fall</span></div><div class="p"><span class="verse v8" data-usfm="REV.18.8"><span class="content">  </span></span><span class="verse v9" data-usfm="REV.18.9"><span class="label">9</span><span class="content">&#8220;When the kings of the earth who committed adultery with her and shared her luxury see the smoke of her burning, they will weep and mourn over her. </span></span><span class="verse v10" data-usfm="REV.18.10"><span class="label">10</span><span class="content">Terrified at her torment, they will stand far off and cry:</span></span></div><div class="q1"><span class="verse v10" data-usfm="REV.18.10"><span class="content">&#8220;&#8198;&#8216;Woe! Woe to you, great city,</span></span></div><div class="q2"><span class="verse v10" data-usfm="REV.18.10"><span class="content">you mighty city of Babylon!</span></span></div><div class="q1"><span class="verse v10" data-usfm="REV.18.10"><span class="content">In one hour your doom has come!&#8217;</span></span></div><div class="p"><span class="verse v10" data-usfm="REV.18.10"><span class="content">  </span></span><span class="verse v11" data-usfm="REV.18.11"><span class="label">11</span><span class="content">&#8220;The merchants of the earth will weep and mourn over her because no one buys their cargoes anymore&#8212; </span></span><span class="verse v12" data-usfm="REV.18.12"><span class="label">12</span><span class="content">cargoes of gold, silver, precious stones and pearls; fine linen, purple, silk and scarlet cloth; every sort of citron wood, and articles of every kind made of ivory, costly wood, bronze, iron and marble; </span></span><span class="verse v13" data-usfm="REV.18.13"><span class="label">13</span><span class="content">cargoes of cinnamon and spice, of incense, myrrh and frankincense, of wine and olive oil, of fine flour and wheat; cattle and sheep; horses and carriages; and human beings sold as slaves.</span></span></div><div class="p"><span class="verse v13" data-usfm="REV.18.13"><span class="content">  </span></span><span class="verse v14" data-usfm="REV.18.14"><span class="label">14</span><span class="content">&#8220;They will say, &#8216;The fruit you longed for is gone from you. All your luxury and splendor have vanished, never to be recovered.&#8217; </span></span><span class="verse v15" data-usfm="REV.18.15"><span class="label">15</span><span class="content">The merchants who sold these things and gained their wealth from her will stand far off, terrified at her torment. They will weep and mourn </span></span><span class="verse v16" data-usfm="REV.18.16"><span class="label">16</span><span class="content">and cry out:</span></span></div><div class="q1"><span class="verse v16" data-usfm="REV.18.16"><span class="content">&#8220;&#8198;&#8216;Woe! Woe to you, great city,</span></span></div><div class="q2"><span class="verse v16" data-usfm="REV.18.16"><span class="content">dressed in fine linen, purple and scarlet,</span></span></div><div class="q2"><span class="verse v16" data-usfm="REV.18.16"><span class="content">and glittering with gold, precious stones and pearls!</span></span></div><div class="q1"><span class="verse v16" data-usfm="REV.18.16"><span class="content">  </span></span><span class="verse v17" data-usfm="REV.18.17"><span class="label">17</span><span class="content">In one hour such great wealth has been brought to ruin!&#8217;</span></span></div><div class="p"><span class="verse v17" data-usfm="REV.18.17"><span class="content">&#8220;Every sea captain, and all who travel by ship, the sailors, and all who earn their living from the sea, will stand far off. </span></span><span class="verse v18" data-usfm="REV.18.18"><span class="label">18</span><span class="content">When they see the smoke of her burning, they will exclaim, &#8216;Was there ever a city like this great city?&#8217; </span></span><span class="verse v19" data-usfm="REV.18.19"><span class="label">19</span><span class="content">They will throw dust on their heads, and with weeping and mourning cry out:</span></span></div><div class="q1"><span class="verse v19" data-usfm="REV.18.19"><span class="content">&#8220;&#8198;&#8216;Woe! Woe to you, great city,</span></span></div><div class="q2"><span class="verse v19" data-usfm="REV.18.19"><span class="content">where all who had ships on the sea</span></span></div><div class="q2"><span class="verse v19" data-usfm="REV.18.19"><span class="content">became rich through her wealth!</span></span></div><div class="q1"><span class="verse v19" data-usfm="REV.18.19"><span class="content">In one hour she has been brought to ruin!&#8217;</span></span></div><div class="b"></div><div class="q1"><span class="verse v19" data-usfm="REV.18.19"><span class="content">  </span></span><span class="verse v20" data-usfm="REV.18.20"><span class="label">20</span><span class="content">&#8220;Rejoice over her, you heavens!</span></span></div><div class="q2"><span class="verse v20" data-usfm="REV.18.20"><span class="content">Rejoice, you people of God!</span></span></div><div class="q2"><span class="verse v20" data-usfm="REV.18.20"><span class="content">Rejoice, apostles and prophets!</span></span></div><div class="q1"><span class="verse v20" data-usfm="REV.18.20"><span class="content">For God has judged her</span></span></div><div class="q2"><span class="verse v20" data-usfm="REV.18.20"><span class="content">with the judgment she imposed on you.&#8221;</span></span></div><div class="s1"><span class="heading">The Finality of Babylon&#8217;s Doom</span></div><div class="p"><span class="verse v20" data-usfm="REV.18.20"><span class="content">  </span></span><span class="verse v21" data-usfm="REV.18.21"><span class="label">21</span><span class="content">Then a mighty angel picked up a boulder the size of a large millstone and threw it into the sea, and said:</span></span></div><div class="q1"><span class="verse v21" data-usfm="REV.18.21"><span class="content">&#8220;With such violence</span></span></div><div class="q2"><span class="verse v21" data-usfm="REV.18.21"><span class="content">the great city of Babylon will be thrown down,</span></span></div><div class="q2"><span class="verse v21" data-usfm="REV.18.21"><span class="content">never to be found again.</span></span></div><div class="q1"><span class="verse v21" data-usfm="REV.18.21"><span class="content">  </span></span><span class="verse v22" data-usfm="REV.18.22"><span class="label">22</span><span class="content">The music of harpists and musicians, pipers and trumpeters,</span></span></div><div class="q2"><span class="verse v22" data-usfm="REV.18.22"><span class="content">will never be heard in you again.</span></span></div><div class="q1"><span class="verse v22" data-usfm="REV.18.22"><span class="content">No worker of any trade</span></span></div><div class="q2"><span class="verse v22" data-usfm="REV.18.22"><span class="content">will ever be found in you again.</span></span></div><div class="q1"><span class="verse v22" data-usfm="REV.18.22"><span class="content">The sound of a millstone</span></span></div><div class="q2"><span class="verse v22" data-usfm="REV.18.22"><span class="content">will never be heard in you again.</span></span></div><div class="q1"><span class="verse v22" data-usfm="REV.18.22"><span class="content">  </span></span><span class="verse v23" data-usfm="REV.18.23"><span class="label">23</span><span class="content">The light of a lamp</span></span></div><div class="q2"><span class="verse v23" data-usfm="REV.18.23"><span class="content">will never shine in you again.</span></span></div><div class="q1"><span class="verse v23" data-usfm="REV.18.23"><span class="content">The voice of bridegroom and bride</span></span></div><div class="q2"><span class="verse v23" data-usfm="REV.18.23"><span class="content">will never be heard in you again.</span></span></div><div class="q1"><span class="verse v23" data-usfm="REV.18.23"><span class="content">Your merchants were the world&#8217;s important people.</span></span></div><div class="q2"><span class="verse v23" data-usfm="REV.18.23"><span class="content">By your magic spell all the nations were led astray.</span></span></div><div class="q1"><span class="verse v23" data-usfm="REV.18.23"><span class="content">  </span></span><span class="verse v24" data-usfm="REV.18.24"><span class="label">24</span><span class="content">In her was found the blood of prophets and of God&#8217;s holy people,</span></span></div><div class="q2"><span class="verse v24" data-usfm="REV.18.24"><span class="content">of all who have been slaughtered on the earth.&#8221;</span></span></div>
      </div>
   </div>
</div>

<div class="version vid111 iso6393eng" data-vid="111" data-iso6393="eng">
   <div class="book bkROM">
      <div class="chapter ch3" data-usfm="ROM.3">
         <div class="label">3</div><div class="s1"><span class="heading">God&#8217;s Faithfulness</span></div><div class="p"><span class="content">  </span><span class="verse v1" data-usfm="ROM.3.1"><span class="label">1</span><span class="content">What advantage, then, is there in being a Jew, or what value is there in circumcision? </span></span><span class="verse v2" data-usfm="ROM.3.2"><span class="label">2</span><span class="content">Much in every way! First of all, the Jews have been entrusted with the very words of God.</span></span></div><div class="p"><span class="verse v2" data-usfm="ROM.3.2"><span class="content">  </span></span><span class="verse v3" data-usfm="ROM.3.3"><span class="label">3</span><span class="content">What if some were unfaithful? Will their unfaithfulness nullify God&#8217;s faithfulness? </span></span><span class="verse v4" data-usfm="ROM.3.4"><span class="label">4</span><span class="content">Not at all! Let God be true, and every human being a liar. As it is written:</span></span></div><div class="q1"><span class="verse v4" data-usfm="ROM.3.4"><span class="content">&#8220;So that you may be proved right when you speak</span></span></div><div class="q2"><span class="verse v4" data-usfm="ROM.3.4"><span class="content">and prevail when you judge.&#8221;</span><span class="note f"><span class="label">#</span><span class=" body"><span class="fr">3:4 </span><span class="ft">Psalm 51:4</span></span></span></span></div><div class="p"><span class="verse v4" data-usfm="ROM.3.4"><span class="content">  </span></span><span class="verse v5" data-usfm="ROM.3.5"><span class="label">5</span><span class="content">But if our unrighteousness brings out God&#8217;s righteousness more clearly, what shall we say? That God is unjust in bringing his wrath on us? (I am using a human argument.) </span></span><span class="verse v6" data-usfm="ROM.3.6"><span class="label">6</span><span class="content">Certainly not! If that were so, how could God judge the world? </span></span><span class="verse v7" data-usfm="ROM.3.7"><span class="label">7</span><span class="content">Someone might argue, &#8220;If my falsehood enhances God&#8217;s truthfulness and so increases his glory, why am I still condemned as a sinner?&#8221; </span></span><span class="verse v8" data-usfm="ROM.3.8"><span class="label">8</span><span class="content">Why not say&#8212;as some slanderously claim that we say&#8212;&#8220;Let us do evil that good may result&#8221;? Their condemnation is just!</span></span></div><div class="s1"><span class="heading">No One Is Righteous</span></div><div class="p"><span class="verse v8" data-usfm="ROM.3.8"><span class="content">  </span></span><span class="verse v9" data-usfm="ROM.3.9"><span class="label">9</span><span class="content">What shall we conclude then? Do we have any advantage? Not at all! For we have already made the charge that Jews and Gentiles alike are all under the power of sin. </span></span><span class="verse v10" data-usfm="ROM.3.10"><span class="label">10</span><span class="content">As it is written:</span></span></div><div class="q1"><span class="verse v10" data-usfm="ROM.3.10"><span class="content">&#8220;There is no one righteous, not even one;</span></span></div><div class="q2"><span class="verse v10" data-usfm="ROM.3.10"><span class="content">  </span></span><span class="verse v11" data-usfm="ROM.3.11"><span class="label">11</span><span class="content">there is no one who understands;</span></span></div><div class="q2"><span class="verse v11" data-usfm="ROM.3.11"><span class="content">there is no one who seeks God.</span></span></div><div class="q1"><span class="verse v11" data-usfm="ROM.3.11"><span class="content">  </span></span><span class="verse v12" data-usfm="ROM.3.12"><span class="label">12</span><span class="content">All have turned away,</span></span></div><div class="q2"><span class="verse v12" data-usfm="ROM.3.12"><span class="content">they have together become worthless;</span></span></div><div class="q1"><span class="verse v12" data-usfm="ROM.3.12"><span class="content">there is no one who does good,</span></span></div><div class="q2"><span class="verse v12" data-usfm="ROM.3.12"><span class="content">not even one.&#8221;</span><span class="note f"><span class="label">#</span><span class=" body"><span class="fr">3:12 </span><span class="ft">Psalms 14:1-3; 53:1-3; Eccles. 7:20</span></span></span></span></div><div class="q1"><span class="verse v12" data-usfm="ROM.3.12"><span class="content">  </span></span><span class="verse v13" data-usfm="ROM.3.13"><span class="label">13</span><span class="content">&#8220;Their throats are open graves;</span></span></div><div class="q2"><span class="verse v13" data-usfm="ROM.3.13"><span class="content">their tongues practice deceit.&#8221;</span><span class="note f"><span class="label">#</span><span class=" body"><span class="fr">3:13 </span><span class="ft">Psalm 5:9</span></span></span></span></div><div class="q1"><span class="verse v13" data-usfm="ROM.3.13"><span class="content">&#8220;The poison of vipers is on their lips.&#8221;</span><span class="note f"><span class="label">#</span><span class=" body"><span class="fr">3:13 </span><span class="ft">Psalm 140:3</span></span></span></span></div><div class="q2"><span class="verse v13" data-usfm="ROM.3.13"><span class="content">  </span></span><span class="verse v14" data-usfm="ROM.3.14"><span class="label">14</span><span class="content">&#8220;Their mouths are full of cursing and bitterness.&#8221;</span><span class="note f"><span class="label">#</span><span class=" body"><span class="fr">3:14 </span><span class="ft">Psalm 10:7 (see Septuagint)</span></span></span></span></div><div class="q1"><span class="verse v14" data-usfm="ROM.3.14"><span class="content">  </span></span><span class="verse v15" data-usfm="ROM.3.15"><span class="label">15</span><span class="content">&#8220;Their feet are swift to shed blood;</span></span></div><div class="q2"><span class="verse v15" data-usfm="ROM.3.15"><span class="content">  </span></span><span class="verse v16" data-usfm="ROM.3.16"><span class="label">16</span><span class="content">ruin and misery mark their ways,</span></span></div><div class="q1"><span class="verse v16" data-usfm="ROM.3.16"><span class="content">  </span></span><span class="verse v17" data-usfm="ROM.3.17"><span class="label">17</span><span class="content">and the way of peace they do not know.&#8221;</span><span class="note f"><span class="label">#</span><span class=" body"><span class="fr">3:17 </span><span class="ft">Isaiah 59:7,8</span></span></span></span></div><div class="q2"><span class="verse v17" data-usfm="ROM.3.17"><span class="content">  </span></span><span class="verse v18" data-usfm="ROM.3.18"><span class="label">18</span><span class="content">&#8220;There is no fear of God before their eyes.&#8221;</span><span class="note f"><span class="label">#</span><span class=" body"><span class="fr">3:18 </span><span class="ft">Psalm 36:1</span></span></span></span></div><div class="p"><span class="verse v18" data-usfm="ROM.3.18"><span class="content">  </span></span><span class="verse v19" data-usfm="ROM.3.19"><span class="label">19</span><span class="content">Now we know that whatever the law says, it says to those who are under the law, so that every mouth may be silenced and the whole world held accountable to God. </span></span><span class="verse v20" data-usfm="ROM.3.20"><span class="label">20</span><span class="content">Therefore no one will be declared righteous in God&#8217;s sight by the works of the law; rather, through the law we become conscious of our sin.</span></span></div><div class="s1"><span class="heading">Righteousness Through Faith</span></div><div class="p"><span class="verse v20" data-usfm="ROM.3.20"><span class="content">  </span></span><span class="verse v21" data-usfm="ROM.3.21"><span class="label">21</span><span class="content">But now apart from the law the righteousness of God has been made known, to which the Law and the Prophets testify. </span></span><span class="verse v22" data-usfm="ROM.3.22"><span class="label">22</span><span class="content">This righteousness is given through faith in</span><span class="note f"><span class="label">#</span><span class=" body"><span class="fr">3:22 </span><span class="ft">Or </span><span class="fqa">through the faithfulness of</span></span></span><span class="content"> Jesus Christ to all who believe. There is no difference between Jew and Gentile, </span></span><span class="verse v23" data-usfm="ROM.3.23"><span class="label">23</span><span class="content">for all have sinned and fall short of the glory of God, </span></span><span class="verse v24" data-usfm="ROM.3.24"><span class="label">24</span><span class="content">and all are justified freely by his grace through the redemption that came by Christ Jesus. </span></span><span class="verse v25" data-usfm="ROM.3.25"><span class="label">25</span><span class="content">God presented Christ as a sacrifice of atonement,</span><span class="note f"><span class="label">#</span><span class=" body"><span class="fr">3:25 </span><span class="ft">The Greek for </span><span class="fq">sacrifice of atonement </span><span class="ft">refers to the atonement cover on the ark of the covenant (see Lev. 16:15,16).</span></span></span><span class="content"> through the shedding of his blood&#8212;to be received by faith. He did this to demonstrate his righteousness, because in his forbearance he had left the sins committed beforehand unpunished&#8212; </span></span><span class="verse v26" data-usfm="ROM.3.26"><span class="label">26</span><span class="content">he did it to demonstrate his righteousness at the present time, so as to be just and the one who justifies those who have faith in Jesus.</span></span></div><div class="p"><span class="verse v26" data-usfm="ROM.3.26"><span class="content">  </span></span><span class="verse v27" data-usfm="ROM.3.27"><span class="label">27</span><span class="content">Where, then, is boasting? It is excluded. Because of what law? The law that requires works? No, because of the law that requires faith. </span></span><span class="verse v28" data-usfm="ROM.3.28"><span class="label">28</span><span class="content">For we maintain that a person is justified by faith apart from the works of the law. </span></span><span class="verse v29" data-usfm="ROM.3.29"><span class="label">29</span><span class="content">Or is God the God of Jews only? Is he not the God of Gentiles too? Yes, of Gentiles too, </span></span><span class="verse v30" data-usfm="ROM.3.30"><span class="label">30</span><span class="content">since there is only one God, who will justify the circumcised by faith and the uncircumcised through that same faith. </span></span><span class="verse v31" data-usfm="ROM.3.31"><span class="label">31</span><span class="content">Do we, then, nullify the law by this faith? Not at all! Rather, we uphold the law.</span></span></div>
      </div>
   </div>
</div>

<div class="version vid111 iso6393eng" data-vid="111" data-iso6393="eng">
   <div class="book bkROM">
      <div class="chapter ch4" data-usfm="ROM.4">
         <div class="label">4</div><div class="s1"><span class="heading">Abraham Justified by Faith</span></div><div class="p"><span class="content">  </span><span class="verse v1" data-usfm="ROM.4.1"><span class="label">1</span><span class="content">What then shall we say that Abraham, our forefather according to the flesh, discovered in this matter? </span></span><span class="verse v2" data-usfm="ROM.4.2"><span class="label">2</span><span class="content">If, in fact, Abraham was justified by works, he had something to boast about&#8212;but not before God. </span></span><span class="verse v3" data-usfm="ROM.4.3"><span class="label">3</span><span class="content">What does Scripture say? &#8220;Abraham believed God, and it was credited to him as righteousness.&#8221;</span><span class="note f"><span class="label">#</span><span class=" body"><span class="fr">4:3 </span><span class="ft">Gen. 15:6; also in verse 22</span></span></span></span></div><div class="p"><span class="verse v3" data-usfm="ROM.4.3"><span class="content">  </span></span><span class="verse v4" data-usfm="ROM.4.4"><span class="label">4</span><span class="content">Now to the one who works, wages are not credited as a gift but as an obligation. </span></span><span class="verse v5" data-usfm="ROM.4.5"><span class="label">5</span><span class="content">However, to the one who does not work but trusts God who justifies the ungodly, their faith is credited as righteousness. </span></span><span class="verse v6" data-usfm="ROM.4.6"><span class="label">6</span><span class="content">David says the same thing when he speaks of the blessedness of the one to whom God credits righteousness apart from works:</span></span></div><div class="q1"><span class="verse v6" data-usfm="ROM.4.6"><span class="content">  </span></span><span class="verse v7" data-usfm="ROM.4.7"><span class="label">7</span><span class="content">&#8220;Blessed are those</span></span></div><div class="q2"><span class="verse v7" data-usfm="ROM.4.7"><span class="content">whose transgressions are forgiven,</span></span></div><div class="q2"><span class="verse v7" data-usfm="ROM.4.7"><span class="content">whose sins are covered.</span></span></div><div class="q1"><span class="verse v7" data-usfm="ROM.4.7"><span class="content">  </span></span><span class="verse v8" data-usfm="ROM.4.8"><span class="label">8</span><span class="content">Blessed is the one</span></span></div><div class="q2"><span class="verse v8" data-usfm="ROM.4.8"><span class="content">whose sin the Lord will never count against them.&#8221;</span><span class="note f"><span class="label">#</span><span class=" body"><span class="fr">4:8 </span><span class="ft">Psalm 32:1,2</span></span></span></span></div><div class="p"><span class="verse v8" data-usfm="ROM.4.8"><span class="content">  </span></span><span class="verse v9" data-usfm="ROM.4.9"><span class="label">9</span><span class="content">Is this blessedness only for the circumcised, or also for the uncircumcised? We have been saying that Abraham&#8217;s faith was credited to him as righteousness. </span></span><span class="verse v10" data-usfm="ROM.4.10"><span class="label">10</span><span class="content">Under what circumstances was it credited? Was it after he was circumcised, or before? It was not after, but before! </span></span><span class="verse v11" data-usfm="ROM.4.11"><span class="label">11</span><span class="content">And he received circumcision as a sign, a seal of the righteousness that he had by faith while he was still uncircumcised. So then, he is the father of all who believe but have not been circumcised, in order that righteousness might be credited to them. </span></span><span class="verse v12" data-usfm="ROM.4.12"><span class="label">12</span><span class="content">And he is then also the father of the circumcised who not only are circumcised but who also follow in the footsteps of the faith that our father Abraham had before he was circumcised.</span></span></div><div class="p"><span class="verse v12" data-usfm="ROM.4.12"><span class="content">  </span></span><span class="verse v13" data-usfm="ROM.4.13"><span class="label">13</span><span class="content">It was not through the law that Abraham and his offspring received the promise that he would be heir of the world, but through the righteousness that comes by faith. </span></span><span class="verse v14" data-usfm="ROM.4.14"><span class="label">14</span><span class="content">For if those who depend on the law are heirs, faith means nothing and the promise is worthless, </span></span><span class="verse v15" data-usfm="ROM.4.15"><span class="label">15</span><span class="content">because the law brings wrath. And where there is no law there is no transgression.</span></span></div><div class="p"><span class="verse v15" data-usfm="ROM.4.15"><span class="content">  </span></span><span class="verse v16" data-usfm="ROM.4.16"><span class="label">16</span><span class="content">Therefore, the promise comes by faith, so that it may be by grace and may be guaranteed to all Abraham&#8217;s offspring&#8212;not only to those who are of the law but also to those who have the faith of Abraham. He is the father of us all. </span></span><span class="verse v17" data-usfm="ROM.4.17"><span class="label">17</span><span class="content">As it is written: &#8220;I have made you a father of many nations.&#8221;</span><span class="note f"><span class="label">#</span><span class=" body"><span class="fr">4:17 </span><span class="ft">Gen. 17:5</span></span></span><span class="content"> He is our father in the sight of God, in whom he believed&#8212;the God who gives life to the dead and calls into being things that were not.</span></span></div><div class="p"><span class="verse v17" data-usfm="ROM.4.17"><span class="content">  </span></span><span class="verse v18" data-usfm="ROM.4.18"><span class="label">18</span><span class="content">Against all hope, Abraham in hope believed and so became the father of many nations, just as it had been said to him, &#8220;So shall your offspring be.&#8221;</span><span class="note f"><span class="label">#</span><span class=" body"><span class="fr">4:18 </span><span class="ft">Gen. 15:5</span></span></span><span class="content">  </span></span><span class="verse v19" data-usfm="ROM.4.19"><span class="label">19</span><span class="content">Without weakening in his faith, he faced the fact that his body was as good as dead&#8212;since he was about a hundred years old&#8212;and that Sarah&#8217;s womb was also dead. </span></span><span class="verse v20" data-usfm="ROM.4.20"><span class="label">20</span><span class="content">Yet he did not waver through unbelief regarding the promise of God, but was strengthened in his faith and gave glory to God, </span></span><span class="verse v21" data-usfm="ROM.4.21"><span class="label">21</span><span class="content">being fully persuaded that God had power to do what he had promised. </span></span><span class="verse v22" data-usfm="ROM.4.22"><span class="label">22</span><span class="content">This is why &#8220;it was credited to him as righteousness.&#8221; </span></span><span class="verse v23" data-usfm="ROM.4.23"><span class="label">23</span><span class="content">The words &#8220;it was credited to him&#8221; were written not for him alone, </span></span><span class="verse v24" data-usfm="ROM.4.24"><span class="label">24</span><span class="content">but also for us, to whom God will credit righteousness&#8212;for us who believe in him who raised Jesus our Lord from the dead. </span></span><span class="verse v25" data-usfm="ROM.4.25"><span class="label">25</span><span class="content">He was delivered over to death for our sins and was raised to life for our justification.</span></span></div>
      </div>
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<div class="version vid111 iso6393eng" data-vid="111" data-iso6393="eng">
   <div class="book bkROM">
      <div class="chapter ch5" data-usfm="ROM.5">
         <div class="label">5</div><div class="s1"><span class="heading">Peace and Hope</span></div><div class="p"><span class="content">  </span><span class="verse v1" data-usfm="ROM.5.1"><span class="label">1</span><span class="content">Therefore, since we have been justified through faith, we</span><span class="note f"><span class="label">#</span><span class=" body"><span class="fr">5:1 </span><span class="ft">Many manuscripts </span><span class="fqa">let us</span></span></span><span class="content"> have peace with God through our Lord Jesus Christ, </span></span><span class="verse v2" data-usfm="ROM.5.2"><span class="label">2</span><span class="content">through whom we have gained access by faith into this grace in which we now stand. And we</span><span class="note f"><span class="label">#</span><span class=" body"><span class="fr">5:2 </span><span class="ft">Or </span><span class="fqa">let us</span></span></span><span class="content"> boast in the hope of the glory of God. </span></span><span class="verse v3" data-usfm="ROM.5.3"><span class="label">3</span><span class="content">Not only so, but we</span><span class="note f"><span class="label">#</span><span class=" body"><span class="fr">5:3 </span><span class="ft">Or </span><span class="fqa">let us</span></span></span><span class="content"> also glory in our sufferings, because we know that suffering produces perseverance; </span></span><span class="verse v4" data-usfm="ROM.5.4"><span class="label">4</span><span class="content">perseverance, character; and character, hope. </span></span><span class="verse v5" data-usfm="ROM.5.5"><span class="label">5</span><span class="content">And hope does not put us to shame, because God&#8217;s love has been poured out into our hearts through the Holy Spirit, who has been given to us.</span></span></div><div class="p"><span class="verse v5" data-usfm="ROM.5.5"><span class="content">  </span></span><span class="verse v6" data-usfm="ROM.5.6"><span class="label">6</span><span class="content">You see, at just the right time, when we were still powerless, Christ died for the ungodly. </span></span><span class="verse v7" data-usfm="ROM.5.7"><span class="label">7</span><span class="content">Very rarely will anyone die for a righteous person, though for a good person someone might possibly dare to die. </span></span><span class="verse v8" data-usfm="ROM.5.8"><span class="label">8</span><span class="content">But God demonstrates his own love for us in this: While we were still sinners, Christ died for us.</span></span></div><div class="p"><span class="verse v8" data-usfm="ROM.5.8"><span class="content">  </span></span><span class="verse v9" data-usfm="ROM.5.9"><span class="label">9</span><span class="content">Since we have now been justified by his blood, how much more shall we be saved from God&#8217;s wrath through him! </span></span><span class="verse v10" data-usfm="ROM.5.10"><span class="label">10</span><span class="content">For if, while we were God&#8217;s enemies, we were reconciled to him through the death of his Son, how much more, having been reconciled, shall we be saved through his life! </span></span><span class="verse v11" data-usfm="ROM.5.11"><span class="label">11</span><span class="content">Not only is this so, but we also boast in God through our Lord Jesus Christ, through whom we have now received reconciliation.</span></span></div><div class="s1"><span class="heading">Death Through Adam, Life Through Christ</span></div><div class="p"><span class="verse v11" data-usfm="ROM.5.11"><span class="content">  </span></span><span class="verse v12" data-usfm="ROM.5.12"><span class="label">12</span><span class="content">Therefore, just as sin entered the world through one man, and death through sin, and in this way death came to all people, because all sinned&#8212;</span></span></div><div class="p"><span class="verse v12" data-usfm="ROM.5.12"><span class="content">  </span></span><span class="verse v13" data-usfm="ROM.5.13"><span class="label">13</span><span class="content">To be sure, sin was in the world before the law was given, but sin is not charged against anyone&#8217;s account where there is no law. </span></span><span class="verse v14" data-usfm="ROM.5.14"><span class="label">14</span><span class="content">Nevertheless, death reigned from the time of Adam to the time of Moses, even over those who did not sin by breaking a command, as did Adam, who is a pattern of the one to come.</span></span></div><div class="p"><span class="verse v14" data-usfm="ROM.5.14"><span class="content">  </span></span><span class="verse v15" data-usfm="ROM.5.15"><span class="label">15</span><span class="content">But the gift is not like the trespass. For if the many died by the trespass of the one man, how much more did God&#8217;s grace and the gift that came by the grace of the one man, Jesus Christ, overflow to the many! </span></span><span class="verse v16" data-usfm="ROM.5.16"><span class="label">16</span><span class="content">Nor can the gift of God be compared with the result of one man&#8217;s sin: The judgment followed one sin and brought condemnation, but the gift followed many trespasses and brought justification. </span></span><span class="verse v17" data-usfm="ROM.5.17"><span class="label">17</span><span class="content">For if, by the trespass of the one man, death reigned through that one man, how much more will those who receive God&#8217;s abundant provision of grace and of the gift of righteousness reign in life through the one man, Jesus Christ!</span></span></div><div class="p"><span class="verse v17" data-usfm="ROM.5.17"><span class="content">  </span></span><span class="verse v18" data-usfm="ROM.5.18"><span class="label">18</span><span class="content">Consequently, just as one trespass resulted in condemnation for all people, so also one righteous act resulted in justification and life for all people. </span></span><span class="verse v19" data-usfm="ROM.5.19"><span class="label">19</span><span class="content">For just as through the disobedience of the one man the many were made sinners, so also through the obedience of the one man the many will be made righteous.</span></span></div><div class="p"><span class="verse v19" data-usfm="ROM.5.19"><span class="content">  </span></span><span class="verse v20" data-usfm="ROM.5.20"><span class="label">20</span><span class="content">The law was brought in so that the trespass might increase. But where sin increased, grace increased all the more, </span></span><span class="verse v21" data-usfm="ROM.5.21"><span class="label">21</span><span class="content">so that, just as sin reigned in death, so also grace might reign through righteousness to bring eternal life through Jesus Christ our Lord.</span></span></div>
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<div class="version vid111 iso6393eng" data-vid="111" data-iso6393="eng">
   <div class="book bkROM">
      <div class="chapter ch6" data-usfm="ROM.6">
         <div class="label">6</div><div class="s1"><span class="heading">Dead to Sin, Alive in Christ</span></div><div class="p"><span class="content">  </span><span class="verse v1" data-usfm="ROM.6.1"><span class="label">1</span><span class="content">What shall we say, then? Shall we go on sinning so that grace may increase? </span></span><span class="verse v2" data-usfm="ROM.6.2"><span class="label">2</span><span class="content">By no means! We are those who have died to sin; how can we live in it any longer? </span></span><span class="verse v3" data-usfm="ROM.6.3"><span class="label">3</span><span class="content">Or don&#8217;t you know that all of us who were baptized into Christ Jesus were baptized into his death? </span></span><span class="verse v4" data-usfm="ROM.6.4"><span class="label">4</span><span class="content">We were therefore buried with him through baptism into death in order that, just as Christ was raised from the dead through the glory of the Father, we too may live a new life.</span></span></div><div class="p"><span class="verse v4" data-usfm="ROM.6.4"><span class="content">  </span></span><span class="verse v5" data-usfm="ROM.6.5"><span class="label">5</span><span class="content">For if we have been united with him in a death like his, we will certainly also be united with him in a resurrection like his. </span></span><span class="verse v6" data-usfm="ROM.6.6"><span class="label">6</span><span class="content">For we know that our old self was crucified with him so that the body ruled by sin might be done away with,</span><span class="note f"><span class="label">#</span><span class=" body"><span class="fr">6:6 </span><span class="ft">Or </span><span class="fqa">be rendered powerless</span></span></span><span class="content"> that we should no longer be slaves to sin&#8212; </span></span><span class="verse v7" data-usfm="ROM.6.7"><span class="label">7</span><span class="content">because anyone who has died has been set free from sin.</span></span></div><div class="p"><span class="verse v7" data-usfm="ROM.6.7"><span class="content">  </span></span><span class="verse v8" data-usfm="ROM.6.8"><span class="label">8</span><span class="content">Now if we died with Christ, we believe that we will also live with him. </span></span><span class="verse v9" data-usfm="ROM.6.9"><span class="label">9</span><span class="content">For we know that since Christ was raised from the dead, he cannot die again; death no longer has mastery over him. </span></span><span class="verse v10" data-usfm="ROM.6.10"><span class="label">10</span><span class="content">The death he died, he died to sin once for all; but the life he lives, he lives to God.</span></span></div><div class="p"><span class="verse v10" data-usfm="ROM.6.10"><span class="content">  </span></span><span class="verse v11" data-usfm="ROM.6.11"><span class="label">11</span><span class="content">In the same way, count yourselves dead to sin but alive to God in Christ Jesus. </span></span><span class="verse v12" data-usfm="ROM.6.12"><span class="label">12</span><span class="content">Therefore do not let sin reign in your mortal body so that you obey its evil desires. </span></span><span class="verse v13" data-usfm="ROM.6.13"><span class="label">13</span><span class="content">Do not offer any part of yourself to sin as an instrument of wickedness, but rather offer yourselves to God as those who have been brought from death to life; and offer every part of yourself to him as an instrument of righteousness. </span></span><span class="verse v14" data-usfm="ROM.6.14"><span class="label">14</span><span class="content">For sin shall no longer be your master, because you are not under the law, but under grace.</span></span></div><div class="s1"><span class="heading">Slaves to Righteousness</span></div><div class="p"><span class="verse v14" data-usfm="ROM.6.14"><span class="content">  </span></span><span class="verse v15" data-usfm="ROM.6.15"><span class="label">15</span><span class="content">What then? Shall we sin because we are not under the law but under grace? By no means! </span></span><span class="verse v16" data-usfm="ROM.6.16"><span class="label">16</span><span class="content">Don&#8217;t you know that when you offer yourselves to someone as obedient slaves, you are slaves of the one you obey&#8212;whether you are slaves to sin, which leads to death, or to obedience, which leads to righteousness? </span></span><span class="verse v17" data-usfm="ROM.6.17"><span class="label">17</span><span class="content">But thanks be to God that, though you used to be slaves to sin, you have come to obey from your heart the pattern of teaching that has now claimed your allegiance. </span></span><span class="verse v18" data-usfm="ROM.6.18"><span class="label">18</span><span class="content">You have been set free from sin and have become slaves to righteousness.</span></span></div><div class="p"><span class="verse v18" data-usfm="ROM.6.18"><span class="content">  </span></span><span class="verse v19" data-usfm="ROM.6.19"><span class="label">19</span><span class="content">I am using an example from everyday life because of your human limitations. Just as you used to offer yourselves as slaves to impurity and to ever-increasing wickedness, so now offer yourselves as slaves to righteousness leading to holiness. </span></span><span class="verse v20" data-usfm="ROM.6.20"><span class="label">20</span><span class="content">When you were slaves to sin, you were free from the control of righteousness. </span></span><span class="verse v21" data-usfm="ROM.6.21"><span class="label">21</span><span class="content">What benefit did you reap at that time from the things you are now ashamed of? Those things result in death! </span></span><span class="verse v22" data-usfm="ROM.6.22"><span class="label">22</span><span class="content">But now that you have been set free from sin and have become slaves of God, the benefit you reap leads to holiness, and the result is eternal life. </span></span><span class="verse v23" data-usfm="ROM.6.23"><span class="label">23</span><span class="content">For the wages of sin is death, but the gift of God is eternal life in</span><span class="note f"><span class="label">#</span><span class=" body"><span class="fr">6:23 </span><span class="ft">Or </span><span class="fqa">through</span></span></span><span class="content"> Christ Jesus our Lord.</span></span></div>
      </div>
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<div class="version vid111 iso6393eng" data-vid="111" data-iso6393="eng">
   <div class="book bkROM">
      <div class="chapter ch7" data-usfm="ROM.7">
         <div class="label">7</div><div class="s1"><span class="heading">Released From the Law, Bound to Christ</span></div><div class="p"><span class="content">  </span><span class="verse v1" data-usfm="ROM.7.1"><span class="label">1</span><span class="content">Do you not know, brothers and sisters&#8212;for I am speaking to those who know the law&#8212;that the law has authority over someone only as long as that person lives? </span></span><span class="verse v2" data-usfm="ROM.7.2"><span class="label">2</span><span class="content">For example, by law a married woman is bound to her husband as long as he is alive, but if her husband dies, she is released from the law that binds her to him. </span></span><span class="verse v3" data-usfm="ROM.7.3"><span class="label">3</span><span class="content">So then, if she has sexual relations with another man while her husband is still alive, she is called an adulteress. But if her husband dies, she is released from that law and is not an adulteress if she marries another man.</span></span></div><div class="p"><span class="verse v3" data-usfm="ROM.7.3"><span class="content">  </span></span><span class="verse v4" data-usfm="ROM.7.4"><span class="label">4</span><span class="content">So, my brothers and sisters, you also died to the law through the body of Christ, that you might belong to another, to him who was raised from the dead, in order that we might bear fruit for God. </span></span><span class="verse v5" data-usfm="ROM.7.5"><span class="label">5</span><span class="content">For when we were in the realm of the flesh,</span><span class="note f"><span class="label">#</span><span class=" body"><span class="fr">7:5 </span><span class="ft">In contexts like this, the Greek word for </span><span class="fq">flesh </span><span class="ft">(<span class="tl">sarx</span>) refers to the sinful state of human beings, often presented as a power in opposition to the Spirit.</span></span></span><span class="content"> the sinful passions aroused by the law were at work in us, so that we bore fruit for death. </span></span><span class="verse v6" data-usfm="ROM.7.6"><span class="label">6</span><span class="content">But now, by dying to what once bound us, we have been released from the law so that we serve in the new way of the Spirit, and not in the old way of the written code.</span></span></div><div class="s1"><span class="heading">The Law and Sin</span></div><div class="p"><span class="verse v6" data-usfm="ROM.7.6"><span class="content">  </span></span><span class="verse v7" data-usfm="ROM.7.7"><span class="label">7</span><span class="content">What shall we say, then? Is the law sinful? Certainly not! Nevertheless, I would not have known what sin was had it not been for the law. For I would not have known what coveting really was if the law had not said, &#8220;You shall not covet.&#8221;</span><span class="note f"><span class="label">#</span><span class=" body"><span class="fr">7:7 </span><span class="ft">Exodus 20:17; Deut. 5:21</span></span></span><span class="content">  </span></span><span class="verse v8" data-usfm="ROM.7.8"><span class="label">8</span><span class="content">But sin, seizing the opportunity afforded by the commandment, produced in me every kind of coveting. For apart from the law, sin was dead. </span></span><span class="verse v9" data-usfm="ROM.7.9"><span class="label">9</span><span class="content">Once I was alive apart from the law; but when the commandment came, sin sprang to life and I died. </span></span><span class="verse v10" data-usfm="ROM.7.10"><span class="label">10</span><span class="content">I found that the very commandment that was intended to bring life actually brought death. </span></span><span class="verse v11" data-usfm="ROM.7.11"><span class="label">11</span><span class="content">For sin, seizing the opportunity afforded by the commandment, deceived me, and through the commandment put me to death. </span></span><span class="verse v12" data-usfm="ROM.7.12"><span class="label">12</span><span class="content">So then, the law is holy, and the commandment is holy, righteous and good.</span></span></div><div class="p"><span class="verse v12" data-usfm="ROM.7.12"><span class="content">  </span></span><span class="verse v13" data-usfm="ROM.7.13"><span class="label">13</span><span class="content">Did that which is good, then, become death to me? By no means! Nevertheless, in order that sin might be recognized as sin, it used what is good to bring about my death, so that through the commandment sin might become utterly sinful.</span></span></div><div class="p"><span class="verse v13" data-usfm="ROM.7.13"><span class="content">  </span></span><span class="verse v14" data-usfm="ROM.7.14"><span class="label">14</span><span class="content">We know that the law is spiritual; but I am unspiritual, sold as a slave to sin. </span></span><span class="verse v15" data-usfm="ROM.7.15"><span class="label">15</span><span class="content">I do not understand what I do. For what I want to do I do not do, but what I hate I do. </span></span><span class="verse v16" data-usfm="ROM.7.16"><span class="label">16</span><span class="content">And if I do what I do not want to do, I agree that the law is good. </span></span><span class="verse v17" data-usfm="ROM.7.17"><span class="label">17</span><span class="content">As it is, it is no longer I myself who do it, but it is sin living in me. </span></span><span class="verse v18" data-usfm="ROM.7.18"><span class="label">18</span><span class="content">For I know that good itself does not dwell in me, that is, in my sinful nature.</span><span class="note f"><span class="label">#</span><span class=" body"><span class="fr">7:18 </span><span class="ft">Or </span><span class="fqa">my flesh</span></span></span><span class="content"> For I have the desire to do what is good, but I cannot carry it out. </span></span><span class="verse v19" data-usfm="ROM.7.19"><span class="label">19</span><span class="content">For I do not do the good I want to do, but the evil I do not want to do&#8212;this I keep on doing. </span></span><span class="verse v20" data-usfm="ROM.7.20"><span class="label">20</span><span class="content">Now if I do what I do not want to do, it is no longer I who do it, but it is sin living in me that does it.</span></span></div><div class="p"><span class="verse v20" data-usfm="ROM.7.20"><span class="content">  </span></span><span class="verse v21" data-usfm="ROM.7.21"><span class="label">21</span><span class="content">So I find this law at work: Although I want to do good, evil is right there with me. </span></span><span class="verse v22" data-usfm="ROM.7.22"><span class="label">22</span><span class="content">For in my inner being I delight in God&#8217;s law; </span></span><span class="verse v23" data-usfm="ROM.7.23"><span class="label">23</span><span class="content">but I see another law at work in me, waging war against the law of my mind and making me a prisoner of the law of sin at work within me. </span></span><span class="verse v24" data-usfm="ROM.7.24"><span class="label">24</span><span class="content">What a wretched man I am! Who will rescue me from this body that is subject to death? </span></span><span class="verse v25" data-usfm="ROM.7.25"><span class="label">25</span><span class="content">Thanks be to God, who delivers me through Jesus Christ our Lord!</span></span></div><div class="p"><span class="verse v25" data-usfm="ROM.7.25"><span class="content">So then, I myself in my mind am a slave to God&#8217;s law, but in my sinful nature</span><span class="note f"><span class="label">#</span><span class=" body"><span class="fr">7:25 </span><span class="ft">Or </span><span class="fqa">in the flesh</span></span></span><span class="content"> a slave to the law of sin.</span></span></div>
      </div>
   </div>
</div>

<div class="version vid111 iso6393eng" data-vid="111" data-iso6393="eng">
   <div class="book bkROM">
      <div class="chapter ch8" data-usfm="ROM.8">
         <div class="label">8</div><div class="s1"><span class="heading">Life Through the Spirit</span></div><div class="p"><span class="content">  </span><span class="verse v1" data-usfm="ROM.8.1"><span class="label">1</span><span class="content">Therefore, there is now no condemnation for those who are in Christ Jesus, </span></span><span class="verse v2" data-usfm="ROM.8.2"><span class="label">2</span><span class="content">because through Christ Jesus the law of the Spirit who gives life has set you</span><span class="note f"><span class="label">#</span><span class=" body"><span class="fr">8:2 </span><span class="ft">The Greek is singular; some manuscripts </span><span class="fqa">me</span></span></span><span class="content"> free from the law of sin and death. </span></span><span class="verse v3" data-usfm="ROM.8.3"><span class="label">3</span><span class="content">For what the law was powerless to do because it was weakened by the flesh,</span><span class="note f"><span class="label">#</span><span class=" body"><span class="fr">8:3 </span><span class="ft">In contexts like this, the Greek word for </span><span class="fq">flesh </span><span class="ft">(<span class="tl">sarx</span>) refers to the sinful state of human beings, often presented as a power in opposition to the Spirit; also in verses 4-13.</span></span></span><span class="content"> God did by sending his own Son in the likeness of sinful flesh to be a sin offering.</span><span class="note f"><span class="label">#</span><span class=" body"><span class="fr">8:3 </span><span class="ft">Or </span><span class="fqa">flesh, for sin</span></span></span><span class="content"> And so he condemned sin in the flesh, </span></span><span class="verse v4" data-usfm="ROM.8.4"><span class="label">4</span><span class="content">in order that the righteous requirement of the law might be fully met in us, who do not live according to the flesh but according to the Spirit.</span></span></div><div class="p"><span class="verse v4" data-usfm="ROM.8.4"><span class="content">  </span></span><span class="verse v5" data-usfm="ROM.8.5"><span class="label">5</span><span class="content">Those who live according to the flesh have their minds set on what the flesh desires; but those who live in accordance with the Spirit have their minds set on what the Spirit desires. </span></span><span class="verse v6" data-usfm="ROM.8.6"><span class="label">6</span><span class="content">The mind governed by the flesh is death, but the mind governed by the Spirit is life and peace. </span></span><span class="verse v7" data-usfm="ROM.8.7"><span class="label">7</span><span class="content">The mind governed by the flesh is hostile to God; it does not submit to God&#8217;s law, nor can it do so. </span></span><span class="verse v8" data-usfm="ROM.8.8"><span class="label">8</span><span class="content">Those who are in the realm of the flesh cannot please God.</span></span></div><div class="p"><span class="verse v8" data-usfm="ROM.8.8"><span class="content">  </span></span><span class="verse v9" data-usfm="ROM.8.9"><span class="label">9</span><span class="content">You, however, are not in the realm of the flesh but are in the realm of the Spirit, if indeed the Spirit of God lives in you. And if anyone does not have the Spirit of Christ, they do not belong to Christ. </span></span><span class="verse v10" data-usfm="ROM.8.10"><span class="label">10</span><span class="content">But if Christ is in you, then even though your body is subject to death because of sin, the Spirit gives life</span><span class="note f"><span class="label">#</span><span class=" body"><span class="fr">8:10 </span><span class="ft">Or </span><span class="fqa">you, your body is dead because of sin, yet your spirit is alive</span></span></span><span class="content"> because of righteousness. </span></span><span class="verse v11" data-usfm="ROM.8.11"><span class="label">11</span><span class="content">And if the Spirit of him who raised Jesus from the dead is living in you, he who raised Christ from the dead will also give life to your mortal bodies because of</span><span class="note f"><span class="label">#</span><span class=" body"><span class="fr">8:11 </span><span class="ft">Some manuscripts </span><span class="fqa">bodies through</span></span></span><span class="content"> his Spirit who lives in you.</span></span></div><div class="p"><span class="verse v11" data-usfm="ROM.8.11"><span class="content">  </span></span><span class="verse v12" data-usfm="ROM.8.12"><span class="label">12</span><span class="content">Therefore, brothers and sisters, we have an obligation&#8212;but it is not to the flesh, to live according to it. </span></span><span class="verse v13" data-usfm="ROM.8.13"><span class="label">13</span><span class="content">For if you live according to the flesh, you will die; but if by the Spirit you put to death the misdeeds of the body, you will live.</span></span></div><div class="p"><span class="verse v13" data-usfm="ROM.8.13"><span class="content">  </span></span><span class="verse v14" data-usfm="ROM.8.14"><span class="label">14</span><span class="content">For those who are led by the Spirit of God are the children of God. </span></span><span class="verse v15" data-usfm="ROM.8.15"><span class="label">15</span><span class="content">The Spirit you received does not make you slaves, so that you live in fear again; rather, the Spirit you received brought about your adoption to sonship.</span><span class="note f"><span class="label">#</span><span class=" body"><span class="fr">8:15 </span><span class="ft">The Greek word for </span><span class="fq">adoption to sonship </span><span class="ft">is a term referring to the full legal standing of an adopted male heir in Roman culture; also in verse 23.</span></span></span><span class="content"> And by him we cry, &#8220;</span><span class="tl"><span class="content">Abba,</span></span><span class="note f"><span class="label">#</span><span class=" body"><span class="fr">8:15 </span><span class="ft">Aramaic for </span><span class="fqa">father</span></span></span><span class="content"> Father.&#8221; </span></span><span class="verse v16" data-usfm="ROM.8.16"><span class="label">16</span><span class="content">The Spirit himself testifies with our spirit that we are God&#8217;s children. </span></span><span class="verse v17" data-usfm="ROM.8.17"><span class="label">17</span><span class="content">Now if we are children, then we are heirs&#8212;heirs of God and co-heirs with Christ, if indeed we share in his sufferings in order that we may also share in his glory.</span></span></div><div class="s1"><span class="heading">Present Suffering and Future Glory</span></div><div class="p"><span class="verse v17" data-usfm="ROM.8.17"><span class="content">  </span></span><span class="verse v18" data-usfm="ROM.8.18"><span class="label">18</span><span class="content">I consider that our present sufferings are not worth comparing with the glory that will be revealed in us. </span></span><span class="verse v19" data-usfm="ROM.8.19"><span class="label">19</span><span class="content">For the creation waits in eager expectation for the children of God to be revealed. </span></span><span class="verse v20" data-usfm="ROM.8.20"><span class="label">20</span><span class="content">For the creation was subjected to frustration, not by its own choice, but by the will of the one who subjected it, in hope </span></span><span class="verse v21" data-usfm="ROM.8.21"><span class="label">21</span><span class="content">that</span><span class="note f"><span class="label">#</span><span class=" body"><span class="fr">8:20,21 </span><span class="ft">Or </span><span class="fqa">subjected it in hope. </span><span class="fv">21 </span><span class="fqa">For</span></span></span><span class="content"> the creation itself will be liberated from its bondage to decay and brought into the freedom and glory of the children of God.</span></span></div><div class="p"><span class="verse v21" data-usfm="ROM.8.21"><span class="content">  </span></span><span class="verse v22" data-usfm="ROM.8.22"><span class="label">22</span><span class="content">We know that the whole creation has been groaning as in the pains of childbirth right up to the present time. </span></span><span class="verse v23" data-usfm="ROM.8.23"><span class="label">23</span><span class="content">Not only so, but we ourselves, who have the firstfruits of the Spirit, groan inwardly as we wait eagerly for our adoption to sonship, the redemption of our bodies. </span></span><span class="verse v24" data-usfm="ROM.8.24"><span class="label">24</span><span class="content">For in this hope we were saved. But hope that is seen is no hope at all. Who hopes for what they already have? </span></span><span class="verse v25" data-usfm="ROM.8.25"><span class="label">25</span><span class="content">But if we hope for what we do not yet have, we wait for it patiently.</span></span></div><div class="p"><span class="verse v25" data-usfm="ROM.8.25"><span class="content">  </span></span><span class="verse v26" data-usfm="ROM.8.26"><span class="label">26</span><span class="content">In the same way, the Spirit helps us in our weakness. We do not know what we ought to pray for, but the Spirit himself intercedes for us through wordless groans. </span></span><span class="verse v27" data-usfm="ROM.8.27"><span class="label">27</span><span class="content">And he who searches our hearts knows the mind of the Spirit, because the Spirit intercedes for God&#8217;s people in accordance with the will of God.</span></span></div><div class="p"><span class="verse v27" data-usfm="ROM.8.27"><span class="content">  </span></span><span class="verse v28" data-usfm="ROM.8.28"><span class="label">28</span><span class="content">And we know that in all things God works for the good of those who love him, who</span><span class="note f"><span class="label">#</span><span class=" body"><span class="fr">8:28 </span><span class="ft">Or </span><span class="fqa">that all things work together for good to those who love God, who</span><span class="ft">; or </span><span class="fqa">that in all things God works together with those who love him to bring about what is good&#8212;with those who</span></span></span><span class="content"> have been called according to his purpose. </span></span><span class="verse v29" data-usfm="ROM.8.29"><span class="label">29</span><span class="content">For those God foreknew he also predestined to be conformed to the image of his Son, that he might be the firstborn among many brothers and sisters. </span></span><span class="verse v30" data-usfm="ROM.8.30"><span class="label">30</span><span class="content">And those he predestined, he also called; those he called, he also justified; those he justified, he also glorified.</span></span></div><div class="s1"><span class="heading">More Than Conquerors</span></div><div class="p"><span class="verse v30" data-usfm="ROM.8.30"><span class="content">  </span></span><span class="verse v31" data-usfm="ROM.8.31"><span class="label">31</span><span class="content">What, then, shall we say in response to these things? If God is for us, who can be against us? </span></span><span class="verse v32" data-usfm="ROM.8.32"><span class="label">32</span><span class="content">He who did not spare his own Son, but gave him up for us all&#8212;how will he not also, along with him, graciously give us all things? </span></span><span class="verse v33" data-usfm="ROM.8.33"><span class="label">33</span><span class="content">Who will bring any charge against those whom God has chosen? It is God who justifies. </span></span><span class="verse v34" data-usfm="ROM.8.34"><span class="label">34</span><span class="content">Who then is the one who condemns? No one. Christ Jesus who died&#8212;more than that, who was raised to life&#8212;is at the right hand of God and is also interceding for us. </span></span><span class="verse v35" data-usfm="ROM.8.35"><span class="label">35</span><span class="content">Who shall separate us from the love of Christ? Shall trouble or hardship or persecution or famine or nakedness or danger or sword? </span></span><span class="verse v36" data-usfm="ROM.8.36"><span class="label">36</span><span class="content">As it is written:</span></span></div><div class="q1"><span class="verse v36" data-usfm="ROM.8.36"><span class="content">&#8220;For your sake we face death all day long;</span></span></div><div class="q2"><span class="verse v36" data-usfm="ROM.8.36"><span class="content">we are considered as sheep to be slaughtered.&#8221;</span><span class="note f"><span class="label">#</span><span class=" body"><span class="fr">8:36 </span><span class="ft">Psalm 44:22</span></span></span></span></div><div class="m"><span class="verse v36" data-usfm="ROM.8.36"><span class="content">  </span></span><span class="verse v37" data-usfm="ROM.8.37"><span class="label">37</span><span class="content">No, in all these things we are more than conquerors through him who loved us. </span></span><span class="verse v38" data-usfm="ROM.8.38"><span class="label">38</span><span class="content">For I am convinced that neither death nor life, neither angels nor demons,</span><span class="note f"><span class="label">#</span><span class=" body"><span class="fr">8:38 </span><span class="ft">Or </span><span class="fqa">nor heavenly rulers</span></span></span><span class="content"> neither the present nor the future, nor any powers, </span></span><span class="verse v39" data-usfm="ROM.8.39"><span class="label">39</span><span class="content">neither height nor depth, nor anything else in all creation, will be able to separate us from the love of God that is in Christ Jesus our Lord.</span></span></div>
      </div>
   </div>
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<div class="version vid111 iso6393eng" data-vid="111" data-iso6393="eng">
   <div class="book bkROM">
      <div class="chapter ch9" data-usfm="ROM.9">
         <div class="label">9</div><div class="s1"><span class="heading">Paul&#8217;s Anguish Over Israel</span></div><div class="p"><span class="content">  </span><span class="verse v1" data-usfm="ROM.9.1"><span class="label">1</span><span class="content">I speak the truth in Christ&#8212;I am not lying, my conscience confirms it through the Holy Spirit&#8212; </span></span><span class="verse v2" data-usfm="ROM.9.2"><span class="label">2</span><span class="content">I have great sorrow and unceasing anguish in my heart. </span></span><span class="verse v3" data-usfm="ROM.9.3"><span class="label">3</span><span class="content">For I could wish that I myself were cursed and cut off from Christ for the sake of my people, those of my own race, </span></span><span class="verse v4" data-usfm="ROM.9.4"><span class="label">4</span><span class="content">the people of Israel. Theirs is the adoption to sonship; theirs the divine glory, the covenants, the receiving of the law, the temple worship and the promises. </span></span><span class="verse v5" data-usfm="ROM.9.5"><span class="label">5</span><span class="content">Theirs are the patriarchs, and from them is traced the human ancestry of the Messiah, who is God over all, forever praised!</span><span class="note f"><span class="label">#</span><span class=" body"><span class="fr">9:5 </span><span class="ft">Or </span><span class="fqa">Messiah, who is over all. God be forever praised! </span><span class="ft">Or </span><span class="fqa">Messiah. God who is over all be forever praised!</span></span></span><span class="content"> Amen.</span></span></div><div class="s1"><span class="heading">God&#8217;s Sovereign Choice</span></div><div class="p"><span class="verse v5" data-usfm="ROM.9.5"><span class="content">  </span></span><span class="verse v6" data-usfm="ROM.9.6"><span class="label">6</span><span class="content">It is not as though God&#8217;s word had failed. For not all who are descended from Israel are Israel. </span></span><span class="verse v7" data-usfm="ROM.9.7"><span class="label">7</span><span class="content">Nor because they are his descendants are they all Abraham&#8217;s children. On the contrary, &#8220;It is through Isaac that your offspring will be reckoned.&#8221;</span><span class="note f"><span class="label">#</span><span class=" body"><span class="fr">9:7 </span><span class="ft">Gen. 21:12</span></span></span><span class="content">  </span></span><span class="verse v8" data-usfm="ROM.9.8"><span class="label">8</span><span class="content">In other words, it is not the children by physical descent who are God&#8217;s children, but it is the children of the promise who are regarded as Abraham&#8217;s offspring. </span></span><span class="verse v9" data-usfm="ROM.9.9"><span class="label">9</span><span class="content">For this was how the promise was stated: &#8220;At the appointed time I will return, and Sarah will have a son.&#8221;</span><span class="note f"><span class="label">#</span><span class=" body"><span class="fr">9:9 </span><span class="ft">Gen. 18:10,14</span></span></span></span></div><div class="p"><span class="verse v9" data-usfm="ROM.9.9"><span class="content">  </span></span><span class="verse v10" data-usfm="ROM.9.10"><span class="label">10</span><span class="content">Not only that, but Rebekah&#8217;s children were conceived at the same time by our father Isaac. </span></span><span class="verse v11" data-usfm="ROM.9.11"><span class="label">11</span><span class="content">Yet, before the twins were born or had done anything good or bad&#8212;in order that God&#8217;s purpose in election might stand: </span></span><span class="verse v12" data-usfm="ROM.9.12"><span class="label">12</span><span class="content">not by works but by him who calls&#8212;she was told, &#8220;The older will serve the younger.&#8221;</span><span class="note f"><span class="label">#</span><span class=" body"><span class="fr">9:12 </span><span class="ft">Gen. 25:23</span></span></span><span class="content">  </span></span><span class="verse v13" data-usfm="ROM.9.13"><span class="label">13</span><span class="content">Just as it is written: &#8220;Jacob I loved, but Esau I hated.&#8221;</span><span class="note f"><span class="label">#</span><span class=" body"><span class="fr">9:13 </span><span class="ft">Mal. 1:2,3</span></span></span></span></div><div class="p"><span class="verse v13" data-usfm="ROM.9.13"><span class="content">  </span></span><span class="verse v14" data-usfm="ROM.9.14"><span class="label">14</span><span class="content">What then shall we say? Is God unjust? Not at all! </span></span><span class="verse v15" data-usfm="ROM.9.15"><span class="label">15</span><span class="content">For he says to Moses,</span></span></div><div class="q1"><span class="verse v15" data-usfm="ROM.9.15"><span class="content">&#8220;I will have mercy on whom I have mercy,</span></span></div><div class="q2"><span class="verse v15" data-usfm="ROM.9.15"><span class="content">and I will have compassion on whom I have compassion.&#8221;</span><span class="note f"><span class="label">#</span><span class=" body"><span class="fr">9:15 </span><span class="ft">Exodus 33:19</span></span></span></span></div><div class="m"><span class="verse v15" data-usfm="ROM.9.15"><span class="content">  </span></span><span class="verse v16" data-usfm="ROM.9.16"><span class="label">16</span><span class="content">It does not, therefore, depend on human desire or effort, but on God&#8217;s mercy. </span></span><span class="verse v17" data-usfm="ROM.9.17"><span class="label">17</span><span class="content">For Scripture says to Pharaoh: &#8220;I raised you up for this very purpose, that I might display my power in you and that my name might be proclaimed in all the earth.&#8221;</span><span class="note f"><span class="label">#</span><span class=" body"><span class="fr">9:17 </span><span class="ft">Exodus 9:16</span></span></span><span class="content">  </span></span><span class="verse v18" data-usfm="ROM.9.18"><span class="label">18</span><span class="content">Therefore God has mercy on whom he wants to have mercy, and he hardens whom he wants to harden.</span></span></div><div class="p"><span class="verse v18" data-usfm="ROM.9.18"><span class="content">  </span></span><span class="verse v19" data-usfm="ROM.9.19"><span class="label">19</span><span class="content">One of you will say to me: &#8220;Then why does God still blame us? For who is able to resist his will?&#8221; </span></span><span class="verse v20" data-usfm="ROM.9.20"><span class="label">20</span><span class="content">But who are you, a human being, to talk back to God? &#8220;Shall what is formed say to the one who formed it, &#8216;Why did you make me like this?&#8217;&#8198;&#8221;</span><span class="note f"><span class="label">#</span><span class=" body"><span class="fr">9:20 </span><span class="ft">Isaiah 29:16; 45:9</span></span></span><span class="content">  </span></span><span class="verse v21" data-usfm="ROM.9.21"><span class="label">21</span><span class="content">Does not the potter have the right to make out of the same lump of clay some pottery for special purposes and some for common use?</span></span></div><div class="p"><span class="verse v21" data-usfm="ROM.9.21"><span class="content">  </span></span><span class="verse v22" data-usfm="ROM.9.22"><span class="label">22</span><span class="content">What if God, although choosing to show his wrath and make his power known, bore with great patience the objects of his wrath&#8212;prepared for destruction? </span></span><span class="verse v23" data-usfm="ROM.9.23"><span class="label">23</span><span class="content">What if he did this to make the riches of his glory known to the objects of his mercy, whom he prepared in advance for glory&#8212; </span></span><span class="verse v24" data-usfm="ROM.9.24"><span class="label">24</span><span class="content">even us, whom he also called, not only from the Jews but also from the Gentiles? </span></span><span class="verse v25" data-usfm="ROM.9.25"><span class="label">25</span><span class="content">As he says in Hosea:</span></span></div><div class="q1"><span class="verse v25" data-usfm="ROM.9.25"><span class="content">&#8220;I will call them &#8216;my people&#8217; who are not my people;</span></span></div><div class="q2"><span class="verse v25" data-usfm="ROM.9.25"><span class="content">and I will call her &#8216;my loved one&#8217; who is not my loved one,&#8221;</span><span class="note f"><span class="label">#</span><span class=" body"><span class="fr">9:25 </span><span class="ft">Hosea 2:23</span></span></span></span></div><div class="m"><span class="verse v25" data-usfm="ROM.9.25"><span class="content">  </span></span><span class="verse v26" data-usfm="ROM.9.26"><span class="label">26</span><span class="content">and,</span></span></div><div class="q1"><span class="verse v26" data-usfm="ROM.9.26"><span class="content">&#8220;In the very place where it was said to them,</span></span></div><div class="q2"><span class="verse v26" data-usfm="ROM.9.26"><span class="content">&#8216;You are not my people,&#8217;</span></span></div><div class="q2"><span class="verse v26" data-usfm="ROM.9.26"><span class="content">there they will be called &#8216;children of the living God.&#8217;&#8198;&#8221;</span><span class="note f"><span class="label">#</span><span class=" body"><span class="fr">9:26 </span><span class="ft">Hosea 1:10</span></span></span></span></div><div class="m"><span class="verse v26" data-usfm="ROM.9.26"><span class="content">  </span></span><span class="verse v27" data-usfm="ROM.9.27"><span class="label">27</span><span class="content">Isaiah cries out concerning Israel:</span></span></div><div class="q1"><span class="verse v27" data-usfm="ROM.9.27"><span class="content">&#8220;Though the number of the Israelites be like the sand by the sea,</span></span></div><div class="q2"><span class="verse v27" data-usfm="ROM.9.27"><span class="content">only the remnant will be saved.</span></span></div><div class="q1"><span class="verse v27" data-usfm="ROM.9.27"><span class="content">  </span></span><span class="verse v28" data-usfm="ROM.9.28"><span class="label">28</span><span class="content">For the Lord will carry out</span></span></div><div class="q2"><span class="verse v28" data-usfm="ROM.9.28"><span class="content">his sentence on earth with speed and finality.&#8221;</span><span class="note f"><span class="label">#</span><span class=" body"><span class="fr">9:28 </span><span class="ft">Isaiah 10:22,23 (see Septuagint)</span></span></span></span></div><div class="m"><span class="verse v28" data-usfm="ROM.9.28"><span class="content">  </span></span><span class="verse v29" data-usfm="ROM.9.29"><span class="label">29</span><span class="content">It is just as Isaiah said previously:</span></span></div><div class="q1"><span class="verse v29" data-usfm="ROM.9.29"><span class="content">&#8220;Unless the Lord Almighty</span></span></div><div class="q2"><span class="verse v29" data-usfm="ROM.9.29"><span class="content">had left us descendants,</span></span></div><div class="q1"><span class="verse v29" data-usfm="ROM.9.29"><span class="content">we would have become like Sodom,</span></span></div><div class="q2"><span class="verse v29" data-usfm="ROM.9.29"><span class="content">we would have been like Gomorrah.&#8221;</span><span class="note f"><span class="label">#</span><span class=" body"><span class="fr">9:29 </span><span class="ft">Isaiah 1:9</span></span></span></span></div><div class="s1"><span class="heading">Israel&#8217;s Unbelief</span></div><div class="p"><span class="verse v29" data-usfm="ROM.9.29"><span class="content">  </span></span><span class="verse v30" data-usfm="ROM.9.30"><span class="label">30</span><span class="content">What then shall we say? That the Gentiles, who did not pursue righteousness, have obtained it, a righteousness that is by faith; </span></span><span class="verse v31" data-usfm="ROM.9.31"><span class="label">31</span><span class="content">but the people of Israel, who pursued the law as the way of righteousness, have not attained their goal. </span></span><span class="verse v32" data-usfm="ROM.9.32"><span class="label">32</span><span class="content">Why not? Because they pursued it not by faith but as if it were by works. They stumbled over the stumbling stone. </span></span><span class="verse v33" data-usfm="ROM.9.33"><span class="label">33</span><span class="content">As it is written:</span></span></div><div class="q1"><span class="verse v33" data-usfm="ROM.9.33"><span class="content">&#8220;See, I lay in Zion a stone that causes people to stumble</span></span></div><div class="q2"><span class="verse v33" data-usfm="ROM.9.33"><span class="content">and a rock that makes them fall,</span></span></div><div class="q2"><span class="verse v33" data-usfm="ROM.9.33"><span class="content">and the one who believes in him will never be put to shame.&#8221;</span><span class="note f"><span class="label">#</span><span class=" body"><span class="fr">9:33 </span><span class="ft">Isaiah 8:14; 28:16</span></span></span></span></div>
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