The Unwavering Love of God: Reflections on Romans 8:32
In this passage, Charles Hodge (1797–1878) offers profound insights into the nature of God’s love and its implications for our lives. As we explore Romans 8:32, we are reminded that the love of God is the foundation of our confidence and security.
The Gift of God’s Son
The verse begins with a striking phrase: “He who did not spare his own Son.” Here, Paul contrasts God’s adopted sons with His own special Son, Jesus Christ. The use of the word “own” emphasizes the unique relationship between God and Christ, highlighting their shared divine nature. This distinction is crucial, as it underscores the magnitude of God’s love in giving up His Son for our sake.
The Depth of God’s Love
The phrase “but gave him up for us all” reveals the extent of God’s love. Christ was delivered up to death on our behalf, taking our place as a substitute. This idea is not explicitly stated in the Greek preposition but is implicit in the context. The sacrifice of Christ secures our benefit because it is offered in our place. The word “all” in this verse should not be limited by our understanding; rather, it should be interpreted in light of Scripture’s broader teachings.
The Implications of God’s Love
The second part of the verse asks, “How will he not also, along with him, graciously give us all things?” If God has given us the greatest gift of all – His Son – will He not also provide us with everything else we need? The gift of Christ includes all other gifts, and God’s love ensures that we will receive the Holy Spirit to make that gift effectual.
A Reason for Confidence
This passage offers a compelling reason for confidence in our salvation. We are assured of God’s unchanging love, not because of our own constancy, but because of the infinite nature of His love. A love that spared not the eternal Son of God cannot fail to achieve its goal. As we reflect on Romans 8:32, may we be reminded of the unwavering love of God and its transformative power in our lives.
About the Author
Charles Hodge (1797–1878) was a professor of biblical literature and theology at Princeton for over fifty years. He edited the Princeton Review for forty-six years and championed divine sovereignty in salvation and the infallibility of the Bible. His commentaries on Romans, Ephesians, and 1 and 2 Corinthians remain highly regarded to this day.
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