Msg #2611 Seven Things That Can’t

Msg #2611 Seven Things That Can’t

What The Bible Says

Good Samaritan’s Penny Pulpit by Pastor Ed Rice

Romans 8’s final question is, “Who shall separate us from the love of Christ?” (8:35). It is followed by a list of seven contestants. Preachers love lists; God gives plenty of them; 9 Blessed Rs, 9 fruits of the Spirit, 7 pieces of armor to don, 7 things to add to faith, 7 principles of the doctrine of Christ et al.. Here, curiously, are seven contestants that might attempt to separate one from the love of Christ. Shall tribulation – a cause of great trouble or suffering, derived from Latin to press as does a threshing board constructed with sharp points? “Simon, Simon, behold, Satan hath desired to have you, that he may sift you as wheat” (Luk.22:31). Take a note, these contestants operate in our minds, not in Christ’s mind, nor do they operate unbounded in his jurisdiction. They might cast down one’s soul as he supposes a separation, but none exists. Shall distress – extreme anxiety, sorrow, or pain? If on an aircraft sending out a distress signal, one might not know what will happen next, and you can know anxiety personally!

Shall persecution – hostility and ill treatment because of beliefs? Or, how about famine – either natural or supernatural? Shall it separate you from Christ’s love? Recall David’s line, “I’ve not seen the righteous forsaken nor his seed begging bread” (Psa.37:25). Shall nakedness – being without necessary clothing? (Likely not addressing those who voluntarily run around half naked). As Jesus puts it, “Is not the life more than meat, and the body than raiment?… but rather seek ye the kingdom of God and all these things shall be added unto you.” (Matt.6:25, Luk.12:22-31) Shall peril – serious and immediate danger? Shall sword? Go over to Persia and ask Mordecai about those two. (See Esther).

An Essay for week #11 Mar 15, 2026
Msg in audio at www.GSBaptistChurch.com/audio/gs260315.mp3
A Systematic Theology www.GSBaptistChurch.com/theology
Virtual Tour of Israel www.GSBaptistChurch.com/israel22
Penny Pulpit Blog www.gsbcpastorrice.wordpress.com

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