Rightly Handling the Word of Truth Pt 2

​Based on our observations of Romans 5:9 & 10 in the previous post, I believe it is obvious Paul is using the word “saved” differently from the common way we use it today.   Saved from wrath must be something other than deliverance from hell since the person in mind has already been justified.  The word wrath has already occurred 6 times in the first 4 chapters and each time it referred to temporal rather than eternal consequences of sin. 
 
So, how does that impact our understanding of Paul’s purpose in writing his letter to the Romans?  Well, go back and look at his greeting and introduction in chapter 1.   Romans 1:7 identifies his addressees: “To all who are in Rome, beloved of God, called to be saints: Grace to you and peace from God our Father and the Lord Jesus Christ.”  He wrote this letter to believers, people who already had everlasting life and were in no danger of the lake of fire. 
 
We also have his stated theme laid out in Romans 1:16-19 For I am not ashamed of the gospel of Christ, for it is the power of God to salvation for everyone who believes, for the Jew first and also for the Greek. 17 For in it the righteousness of God is revealed from faith to faith; as it is written, “The just shall live by faith.” 18 For the wrath of God is revealed from heaven against all ungodliness and unrighteousness of men, who suppress the truth in unrighteousness, 19 because what may be known of God is manifest in them, for God has shown it to them.
 
The Gospel of Jesus Christ is also the revelation of God’s righteousness to people of faith because we who are saved by faith are also to live by faith.  Why?  Because God’s wrath is presently being revealed against all ungodliness and unrighteousness of men.  All means regardless of their eternal destiny.  Can a Christian suppress the truth?  That should be apparent from all the doctrinal disagreements we have between denominations.  They all cannot be right; some have gotten it wrong.  In fact, our need to be saved after being justified (Romans 5:9) insists that we can! 
 
While the Holy Spirit felt it necessary for Paul to make sure we have a clear understanding of justification by faith (Romans 3-4) the balance of Romans deals with living by faith.  The justified shall live by faith (1:17).  It is the only way to please God and avoid wrath.  Hebrews 11:6 But without faith it is impossible to please Him, for he who comes to God must believe that He is, and that He is a rewarder of those who diligently seek Him.  Romans is the letter you need to read to get the basics of living by faith. 
 
Because those whose righteousness is by faith should also live by faith if they want to please God and avoid wrath.