Romans 9:30-10:13
But the righteousness based on faith says, “Do not say in your heart, ‘Who will ascend into heaven?’” (that is, to bring Christ down) “or ‘Who will descend into the abyss?’” (that is, to bring Christ up from the dead). But what does it say? “The word is near you, in your mouth and in your heart”… (vv. 6-8) These few verses have always been confusing to me, but I think I might understand it this time. Essentially Paul is saying that the Gospel is neither hidden nor difficult to understand. That is, no one needs to go looking for Jesus in heaven or into the abyss to bring Him in for an explanation. It’s already straightforward! He then goes on to state the Gospel in just a few words: …because, if you confess with your mouth that Jesus is Lord and believe in your heart that God raised him from the dead, you will be saved. (v. 9) It’s our own confession of faith, simple and straightforward!!
For “everyone who calls on the name of the Lord will be saved.” (v. 13) My Study Bible pointed out something I should have seen myself – that Peter quoted this same verse in his Pentecost speech. I thought I recognized it…!! Glory!!
Slava Bohu!
Thanks, Fred. I did a sidetrack and reread Joel 1-3 with new eyes, related to the quote in Rom 10.13. Joel calls Judah to repentance and then describes the Day of the Lord, when the Spirit of the Lord comes and people will dream dreams, prophesy. etc., and everyone who calls on the name of the Lord will be saved. People ask, “What must we do to be saved?” And the answer is there in the OT and NT, again and again! God’s promise is not a hidden secret, it’s right there! Hallelujah!