³¹ What then shall we say to these things? If God is for us, who can be against us?

Paul asked seven questions in machine-gun-like fashion to demonstrate that our salvation is completely secure in God’s economy (vv. 31-39). These verses are the climax and conclusion to chapter eight.

Note the argument of the remainder of the chapter:

God is providentially “for us” (8:31).

Since God gave us the greatest gift in His Son, He will surely give us anything else we might need (8:32).

No one can successfully bring a charge against God’s elect because He Himself declared us righteous (8:33).

No one can condemn us because Christ died and rose for us (8:34).

No one and no thing can separate the believer from God’s love through Christ (8:35-39).

Verses 31 to 39 set forth three strophes:

Celebration of God’s grace, vv. 31-32

Vindication of God’s grace, vv. 33-34

Conquering grace in difficulties, vv. 35-39

³¹ What then shall we say to these things?

Since God’s plan reaches from eternity past to eternity future, what can believers say to this? This question is a response to 8:28-30. The “then” here draws a conclusion from what was previously said.

If [since] God is for us,

There is a definite article (“the”) before “God” in this phrase, indicating the one and only God is for us. It is not simply some god but “the God” who is “for us.” No one and no thing is on the par with God.

The “if” in the Greek does not imply doubt but certainty. It is a certainty that God is for us.

who can be against us?

Christians can exult over God’s providence in their lives because it does not make a particle of difference who is against us. All enemies are swept away in God’s providential care over us.

PRINCIPLE:

Christians elate in God’s divine care over them.

APPLICATION:

Because God is “for us,” no power—including Satan and all his hosts—can prevail against the believer. All our adversity is under God’s control. God will always interpose for us. God is resolved to bring us ultimately to glory, and so nothing can stop our future from happening. As long as we live, God is “for us.”

Ps 27:1, The Lord is my light and my salvation; Whom shall I fear? The Lord is the strength of my life; Of whom shall I be afraid?

Ps 46:1-3, God is our refuge and strength, A very present help in trouble. ² Therefore we will not fear, Even though the earth be removed, And though the mountains be carried into the midst of the sea; ³ Though its waters roar and be troubled, Though the mountains shake with its swelling. Selah

The Christian who claims the promise of God’s providential care over him can deal with pressure out of a divine viewpoint. God will sustain those who claim His promises. This is especially true when it comes to God’s promises of grace toward us. Perspective on God’s grace keeps the believer from relapsing into legalism and guilt.

He 13:6, So we may boldly say: “The Lord is my helper; I will not fear. What can man do to me?