‍We’re in Romans chapter 8 one more time this week. Writing to a small band of Christians in the city of Rome who were feeling the growing persecution of the Emperor Nero, the Apostle Paul sends a long letter of theology and encouragement, what we now call the book of Romans. It’s hard reading in places, and very deep – but chapter 8 is a beautiful master class in confidence – the confidence of those who are “in Christ” and know that they are eternally loved by God.

It’s Baptism Sunday! Always a joyful day – and what brings us joy as we watch others profess their faith in Jesus Christ is exactly what Paul has been talking about as we’ve looked at Romans 8: the ultimate security we find in Christ. Because we all struggle with insecurity; but the security and confidence we find in Christ comes from one truth: God is for us – and he proved it through Jesus.

Today, over two billion people around the world are celebrating Easter. What is that all about? On the surface, the story is familiar: a young man from a small town in the Middle East lived a relatively short but amazing life that drew the attention of many; then he was put to death, and miraculously rose again from the dead. But how did that simple story become a worldwide movement and a holiday celebrated around the world? Many would say that it’s because their own encounter with the risen Jesus changed everything – that somehow, this man who came back to life has now given them life.