Romans Chapter 8 Vs. 27

 

Future Glory

And he that searcheth the hearts knoweth what is the mind of the Spirit, because he maketh intercession for the saints according to the will of God. Rom 8:27

he that searcheth... This is no doubt Christ who knows the mind of the Spirit. It would seem out of place to state that the Spirit knows His own mind. All three persons of the Trinity search hearts: God the Father (1Ch. 28:9; Jer. 17:10); the Son (Rev. 2:23); and the Spirit (1Cor. 2:10).

he maketh intercession... Greek: entungchano, to intercede; to act as an agent or manager in all phases of salvation and dealings with God (Rom. 8:27, 8:34; 11:2; Heb. 7:25). Translated "deal with" Acts 25:24.

We see the problem that many Christians face when they are praying for others. We all pray to the very best of our ability, and still we do not always know what to pray for, or how to pray for a particular thing. This is when the Spirit takes over for us and prays for us. God’s Spirit knows exactly what the needs are.

The Spirit also groans along with creation and the believer. The reference is to the Spirit’s interpretation of the believer’s innermost feelings, which cannot be put into words as the Spirit knows what’s in the heart of man.

The One who searches our hearts is God (1Sam. 16:7; Heb. 4:13), and He knows (oiden, “knows perceptively or intuitively”) the mind of the Spirit, because the Spirit intercedes (entynchanei; cf. Rom. 8:26) for the saints in accordance with God’s will. Even though the Spirit’s words are not expressed, the Father knows what the Spirit is thinking. This is an interesting statement about the Father’s omniscience and the intimacy within the Trinity. The Lord Jesus continually intercedes for believers in God’s presence (Rom. 8:34; Heb. 7:25) and the Holy Spirit also intercedes on their behalf! Though believers are ignorant of what to pray for and how to voice those requests, the Spirit voices their requests for them.

Daniel Chapter 11 Vs. 14

 The Kings of the South and the North

Daniel 11:14 And in those times there shall many stand up against the king of the south: also the robbers of thy people shall exalt themselves to establish the vision; but they shall fall.

there shall many... Antiochus the Great and Philip of Macedonia united in conquering Egypt. In 198 B.C. Egypt was defeated and Palestine was again under the Seleucids.


king of the... This was Ptolemy V, called Epiphanes, the Illustrious. He was only 5 years old at this time, when Philopater died. Rome for the first time interfered to make Antiochus surrender his conquests. Not daring to disobey Rome, Antiochus made peace with Ptolemy and betrothed to him his daughter Cleopatra, 193 B.C.


also the robbers... The Jews who rejected their religion and joined Ptolemy under Scopas, the Egyptian general defeated by Antiochus the Great in 198 B.C. Violent Jews wanted Judean independence from Egypt, but failed in their revolt.


to establish the... To take the side of Syria to help fulfill the prophecy of liberating Judea. In doing so they fell under the wrath of the Egyptians, for Scopas came with a large army, while Antiochus was engaged in other parts, and subdued Israel taking much spoil into Egypt.


This happens almost as if it were to fulfill the prophecy.



Syria was not Egypt’s only enemy, for Philip V of Macedonia joined with Antiochus III against Egypt. Many Jews (your own people, i.e., Daniel’s people, the Jews; cf. “your people” in Dan. 9:24; 10:14) also joined Antiochus against Egypt. Perhaps the Jews hoped to gain independence from both Egypt and Syria by joining the conflict, but their hopes were not realized.

Romans Chapter 8 Vs. 26

 

Future Glory

Likewise the Spirit also helpeth our infirmities: for we know not what we should pray for as we ought: but the Spirit itself maketh intercession for us with groanings which cannot be uttered. Rom 8:26

Spirit also helpeth... Twelve Blessings of the Holy Spirit:

1. He sets free from sin (Rom. 8:2).

2. He cancels death penalty (Rom. 8:2).

3. He fulfills righteousness (Rom. 8:4-5).

4. He indwells believers (Rom. 8:9-11).

5. He gives life (Rom. 8:10).

6. He quickens the mortal body (Rom 8:11).

7. He mortifies sinful members (Rom. 8:13).

8. He leads children of God (Rom. 8:14).

9. He adopts into God’s family (Rom. 8:15).

10. He bears witness of sonship (Rom. 8:16).

11. He helps infirmities (Rom. 8:26).

12. He makes intercession for saints (Rom. 8:26).

helpeth... Greek: sunantilambanomai, joint help. It is the assistance afforded by any two persons to each other, who mu-tally bear the same load or carry it between them.

our infirmities:... Our physical, mental, or moral weakness or flaws (see, Mat. 8:17).

for we know... We would make many mistakes in prayer if the Spirit did not inspire us with proper desires and help us fulfill those desires in the will of God.

The Spirit itself... Himself, for He is a person.

Maketh intercession for... Greek: huperentungchano, to apply one’s self to intercede for another.

us with groanings... Greek: stenagmos, unutterable gushings of the heart. Only here and in Acts 7:34.

We see the problem that many Christians face when they are praying for others. We all pray to the very best of our ability, and still we do not always know what to pray for, or how to pray for a particular thing. This is when the Spirit takes over for us and prays for us. God’s Spirit knows exactly what the needs are.

The Spirit also groans along with creation and the believer. The reference is to the Spirit’s interpretation of the believer’s innermost feelings, which cannot be put into words as the Spirit knows what’s in the heart of man.

These verses point out that believers are not left to their own resources in their sufferings (Rom. 8:18) and groaning (Rom. 8:23). The Spirit helps (pres. tense, “keeps on helping”) us in (the Gr. here does not have the words rendered “us in”) our weakness. It is not that the Spirit helps in those occasional times when Christians are weak; their state is one of weakness and the Spirit continually helps them. The Greek word for weakness (astheneia) may include physical, emotional, and spiritual disability (cf. see Jas. 5:14) evidenced by inward “groaning” (Rom. 8:23). “Helps” translates synantilambanetai, a rich word that pictures someone helping another carry a heavy load. (It is used elsewhere in the NT only in Luke 10:40.)

One evidence of their weakness is the fact that believers do not know what they ought to pray (lit., “what we should pray as it is necessary”). In their weakness both the content and the manner of proper prayer eludes them, but the Spirit Himself comes to their rescue and intercedes (pres. tense, “keeps on interceding”) for us with groans that words cannot express. Natural Creation groans (Rom. 8:22) and believers groan (Rom. 8:23), and so does the Holy Spirit. This has nothing to do with praying in tongues, as some suggest. The groaning is done by the Holy Spirit, not believers, and is not stated in words. The help the Spirit gives (Rom. 8:26) is His interceding. “Intercedes” translates hyperentynchanei, which occurs only here in the New Testament; it means “approaches or appeals to someone.

Daniel Chapter 11 Vs. 13

The Kings of the South and the North

Daniel 11:13 "For the king of the north shall return, and shall set forth a multitude greater than the former, and shall certainly come after certain years with a great army and with much riches."




the king of... Antiochus III, called the Great, who ruled 223-187 B.C. Fourteen years after his defeat at Raphia, he returned to fight the Egyptians with a greater army than before and with many riches from his campaign in restoring the eastern parts of his empire.

A king of Syria shall rise up and attack Egypt. This king will be very rich.

Thirteen years later Antiochus returned with a great army, and in a series of strikes against Egypt brought Palestine (the Beautiful Land), into his control as far South as Gaza.

And with these series of strikes against Egypt he brought Palestine (the Beautiful Land) into his control as far South as Gaza.




But after a brief interruption Antiochus returned with another army (much larger) and turned back the king of the South.

Romans Chapter 8 Vs. 25

Future Glory

But if we hope for that we see not, then do we with patience wait for it. Rom 8:25

Without the clear and certain promises of the Word of God, the believer would have no basis for hope.

Those who respond by faith to that promise have hope, a confident expectation of that bodily redemption (cf. Gal. 5:5). This is the final step of salvation and it was in that anticipation that we were saved. The redemption of the body (Rom. 8:23) obviously has not yet occurred (Who hopes for what he already has?), but it is hoped for and eagerly anticipated (wait is from apekdechomai; cf. Rom. 8:19, Rom. 8:23) with steadfast endurance (patiently is lit., “through endurance”) in present sufferings (Rom. 8:18). 

Daniel Chapter 11 Vs. 12

 The Kings of the South and the North

Daniel 11:12 "[And] when he hath taken away the multitude, his heart shall be lifted up; and he shall cast down [many] ten thousands: but he shall not be strengthened [by it]."




when he hath... Ptolemy IV was initially successful in delaying the invasion of Antiochus.

his heart shall... Even though the multitude was captured, his heart shall be lifted up.

shall cast down... Ptolemy slaughtered many thousands.

He shall not... Their captor is not strengthened.

Great numbers do not make a great army. Great leadership and great causes, make a great army.

Gideon's army of 300 caused the multitude {so many they were like grasshoppers}, of Amalekites and Midianites to flee.

The size of an army is not important. God's blessing on that army is what is important.




Ptolemy IV came to meet Antiochus III at the southern borders of Israel. Ptolemy IV was initially successful in delaying the invasion of Antiochus (Ptolemy slaughtered many thousands).

Romans Chapter 8 Vs. 24

 

Future Glory

For we are saved by hope: but hope that is seen is not hope: for what a man seeth, why doth he yet hope for? Rom 8:24

For we are... In the final analysis, present salvation is a hope. Many things can happen before the final change to immortality and eternal life (see, John 6:27).

for what a... Question 45. Next, Rom. 8:31.

Unlike the English word “hope,” the New Testament word contains no uncertainty. It speaks of something that is certain, but not yet realized. The believer’s ultimate destiny is to share in the very glory of God and that hope will be realized because Christ Himself secures it.

God has promised that a believer’s body will finally be delivered from sin and its effects by the work of His Son. Those who respond by faith to that promise have hope, a confident expectation of that bodily redemption (cf. Gal. 5:5). This is the final step of salvation and it was in that anticipation that we were saved.

Daniel Chapter 11 Vs. 11

 The Kings of the South and the North

Daniel 11:11"And the king of the south shall be moved with choler, and shall come forth and fight with him, [even] with the king of the north: and he shall set forth a great multitude; but the multitude shall be given into his hand."

king of the south... Ptolemy Philopater, "Lover of Father" or Tryphon, son of Euergetes, reigned 221-204 B.C. Antiochus the Great of Syria declared war on him about 219 B.C. Philopater defeated Antiochus in the battle of Raphia near Gaza, 217 B.C. He became greatly exalted destroying and oppressing many in his own land especially the Jews (Dan. 11:12). He was not to be strengthened by his victories due to the constant decline of his kingdom brought about by permitting favorites to rule or ruin (Dan. 11:12).

moved with choler... The word "choler" means bitter. His bitterness caused the king of Egypt to come against the king of Syria.

a great multitude... The army, spoken of as a multitude, was about 75,000. The multitude falls into enemy hands. They were defeated here. Ptolemy IV Philopator (222-203 B.C.) devastated the Syrian army under Antiochus III the Great (223-187 B.C.). Egypt’s advantage would be brief, v.12.



The king of the South in this verse was Ptolemy IV Philopator (221-204 b.c.). He was the one driven back by Antiochus III the Great (cf. see Dan. 11:10). Ptolemy IV came to meet Antiochus III at the southern borders of Israel.

Romans Chapter 8 Vs. 23

 

Future Glory

And not only they, but ourselves also, which have the firstfruits of the Spirit, even we ourselves groan within ourselves, waiting for the adoption, to wit, the redemption of our body. Rom 8:23

not only they,... Not only the corrupt, depraved creations, but we who are redeemed also suffer and wait for final redemption of the body (1Cor. 15:51-58; Phlp. 3:21).

the firstfruits of... The first blessings of the outpoured Spirit upon all flesh. Greek: aparche, used of the first of several kinds of blessings (Rom. 8:23; 11:16; 16:5; 1Cor. 15:20, 15:23; 16:15; Jas. 1:18; Rev. 14:4).

we ourselves groan... Greek: stenazo, to sigh deeply, bewail (Rom. 8:23; Mark 7:34; 2Cor. 5:2, 5:4; Heb. 13:17; Jas. 5:9; cp. sustenazo, Rom. 8:22).

adoption, to wit,... This adoption refers to the change of our bodies from mortality to immortality. Just like one is adopted from one family to another, saints are to be adopted physically into the family of immortal beings (Phlp. 3:21; 1Cor. 15:51-58).

The Holy Spirit is the first installment of the glory yet to follow.

In the first chapter of James, we read of the Christians being firstfruits.

Jas. 1:18 “Of his own will begat he us with the word of truth, that we should be a kind of firstfruits of his creatures.”

1Cor. 15:23 “But every man in his own order: Christ the firstfruits; afterward they that are Christ’s at his coming.”

This is speaking of those who received the baptism of the Holy Ghost at Pentecost. Receiving the Spirit of God inside of you is a first fruit promise of the resurrection.

Definition of Pentecost: (from Greek pentecoste, “fiftieth day”). Christian festival commemorating the descent of the Holy Spirit on the disciples of Jesus, occurring on the Jewish Pentecost, after Jesus’ death, resurrection, and ascension. The disciples began to speak in the many languages of the people assembled there, a sign that the disciples should spread the Christian message throughout the world. Jewish Pentecost was a thanksgiving feast for the first fruits of the wheat harvest and was associated with remembrance of God’s gift of the Law to Moses on Mount Sinai. Christian Pentecost is celebrated on the Sunday concluding the 50-day period following Easter. It is also the name of the Jewish celebration of Shavuot (“Festival of Weeks”).

The believer groans because of the conflict experienced (in 7:14-24), from which he needs a final and complete deliverance. This is the ultimate answer to (7:24).

“O wretched man that I am! who shall deliver me from the body of this death?”

Christ will deliver us by the resurrection and glorification of our bodies. Not the physical body only, but all of man’s remaining fallenness.

Believers are described as the ones having the first-fruits of the Spirit. This is an appositional use of the genitive and means that the Holy Spirit is “the firstfruits” (aparchēn) of God’s work of salvation and re-creation in believers. Elsewhere the Holy Spirit is called “a deposit (down payment or earnest) guaranteeing our inheritance” (Eph. 1:14; cf. 2Cor. 1:22), a similar idea. A farmer’s “firstfruits” were the initial harvesting of his first-ripened crops. This first installment was a foretaste and promise that more harvest was to come. Similarly God the Holy Spirit, indwelling believers, is a foretaste that they will enjoy many more blessings, including living in God’s presence forever.

Because of “present sufferings” (Rom. 8:18) believers, like the Creation, groan inwardly (cf. Rom. 8:22; 2Cor. 5:2) as they wait eagerly (from apekdechomai, the same word used of the Creation in Rom. 8:19 and of the manifestation of hope in Rom. 8:25) for their adoption as sons, which is identified as the redemption of their bodies. The word “adoption” (huiothesian, “placing as a son”; trans. “sonship” in Rom. 8:15) describes a believer’s legal relationship to God as a result of God’s grace received by faith. (Regeneration, however, describes a believer’s relationship to God as a result of the new birth.) Israel had received adoption by God (Rom. 9:4), a reality undoubtedly growing out of her covenantal ties with God (Deut. 7:6-9). In one sense each believer has already received the adoption because he has “received the Spirit of sonship” (lit., “adoption,” Rom. 8:15) and is a son of God (Gal. 4:6-7). At the same time, as Rom. 8:23 states, believers still anticipate their adoption in its completeness, which is said to be “the redemption” (apolytrōsin; etymologically the Gr. word describes a release or deliverance or manumission achieved by a ransom payment [lytron]; cf. see Rom. 3:24) of their bodies. This is called the revelation of the sons of God (Rom. 8:19) and “the glorious freedom of the children of God” (Rom. 8:21). It will occur at the Rapture of the church when believers will be raised and transformed with glorious bodies (1Cor. 15:42-54; 2Cor. 5:1-5; Phlp. 3:20-21; 1Thes. 4:13-18). Paul called that day “the day of redemption” (Eph. 4:30).

Daniel Chapter 11 Vs. 10

The Kings of the South and the North

Daniel 11:10 "But his sons shall be stirred up, and shall assemble a multitude of great forces: and [one] shall certainly come, and overflow, and pass through: then shall he return, and be stirred up, [even] to his fortress."




his sons shall... The sons of Seleucus II, Seleucus III, (Ceraunus, or Thunderbolt) and Antiochus III, called the Great. Seleucus II did assemble a great multitude of forces to recover his father’s dominions, but was poisoned by two of his own generals after a reign of 2 years. His brother, Antiochus III, was then proclaimed king, so that only one of the sons actually started a war against Egypt. He retook Seleucia and regained Syria. He seemed disposed to invade Egypt, as he came to his fortress, even to the borders of Egypt.

The two sons (Seleucus III and Antiochus III) had sought to restore Syria’s lost prestige by military conquest, the older son by invading Asia Minor and the younger son by attacking Egypt. Egypt had controlled all the territory north to the borders of Syria which included the land of Israel. Antiochus III succeeded in driving the Egyptians back to the southern borders of Israel in his campaign in 219-217.



Seleucus’ sons (successors), kept up war against Egypt, as described (in verses 11-35).

Romans Chapter8 Vs. 22

Future Glory

For we know that the whole creation groaneth and travaileth in pain together until now. Rom 8:22

groaneth and travaileth... Groans and toils in labor and hardship. This refers to Adam’s Fall, which has caused misery from then until the present. The present sufferings of creation are the “birth pangs” of the new age to be born, the Millennium. From the Fall until now, creation has been groaning over the pointlessness of having been made subject to a curse. It eagerly looks forward to the time when the curse will be lifted.

Until Jesus’ sacrificial death on the cross, there was no promise of everlasting life. Mankind died with no hope of everlasting life. The atonement (payment), for sins up until Jesus crucifixion, was just for 1 year at a time. The blood of an animal could not do away with sin, it could only cover it.

In one sense Rom. 8:22 is an appropriate conclusion to the preceding paragraph, summing up the present cursed state of the physical creation. Paul said, We know (oidamen, continuing state of knowledge that grows out of perception) that the whole Creation has been groaning as in the pains of childbirth (lit., “keeps on groaning together and keeps on travailing together”) right up to the present time. The emphasis on “together” in these verbs does not include believers in Christ, who are specifically mentioned in Rom. 8:23, but involves the various parts of the natural Creation. At the same time Rom. 8:22 introduces this new paragraph, which sets forth the hope of future deliverance from suffering under the curse of sin.

Paul had begun this section by referring to the believers’ “present sufferings” (Rom. 8:18), a subject to which he returned in Rom. 8:23. 

Daniel Chapter 11 Vs. 9

 The Kings of the South and the North

Daniel 11:9 "So the king of the south shall come into [his] kingdom, and shall return into his own land."




come into his... He comes into the kingdom of Seleucus II. This refers to a second invasion of Syria, but having heard of rebellion in Egypt, Ptolemy III returned there to suppress it. Otherwise, he would have wholly destroyed the kingdom of Syria.

Syria’s Callinicus attacked Egypt (in 240 B.C.), but retreated, soundly beaten.



After this humiliating defeat, Seleucus II Callinicus (the king of the North) sought to invade Egypt but was unsuccessful. After his death (by a fall from his horse) he was succeeded by his son, Seleucus II Soter (227-223 b.c.), who was killed by conspirators while on a military campaign in Asia Minor. Seleucus III’s brother, Antiochus III the Great, became the ruler in 223 at 18 years of age and reigned for 36 years (till 187).

Romans Chapter 8 Vs. 21

 

Future Glory

Because the creature itself also shall be delivered from the bondage of corruption into the glorious liberty of the children of God. Rom 8:21

delivered from the... This refers to the renovation of the heavens and earth by fire when creation will be rid of all bondage of corruption and made new for the eternal perfect state (2Pet. 3:10-13; Heb. 1:10-12; 12:25-28; Isa. 65:17; 66:22-24; Rev. 21-22).

corruption into the... Greek: phthora, moral corruption, decay, ruin, depravity, wickedness (Rom. 8:21; 1Cor. 15:42, 15:50; Gal. 6:8; 2Pet. 1:4; 2:12, 2:19). Also translated "perish" (Col. 2:22) and "be destroyed" (2Pet. 2:12). There will be no more death. The creature or creation looks forward to the Millennium when redeemed man is glorified and will never again have to face God’s curse.

glorious liberty of... Literally, "freedom of the glory of the children of God—the glory of eternity" (1Cor. 2:9; Rom. 8:18).

When God’s program of salvation for people is completed and the children of God together experience their glorious freedom from sin, Satan, and physical decay, then the Creation itself will be liberated from its bondage to decay. God had cursed the physical Creation as a part of His judgment on people for sin because of their position and authority over the Creation as God’s representatives (Gen. 1:26-30; 2:8, 2:15). Similarly, since God’s program of salvation for people is one of a new Creation (2Cor. 5:17; Gal. 6:15), the physical world also will be re-created (Rev. 21:5). This will take place in two stages. First will be the renovation of the present cosmos in conjunction with the return to earth of the Lord Jesus and the establishment of the messianic kingdom on earth (Isa. 11:5-9; 35:1-2, 35:5-7; 65:20, 65:25; Amos 9:13). The second stage will be creation of “a new heaven and a new earth” (Rev. 21:1; cf. 2Pet. 3:7-13).

Daniel Chapter 11 Vs.8

 The Kings of the South and the North

Daniel 11:8 "And shall also carry captives into Egypt their gods, with their princes, [and] with their precious vessels of silver and of gold; and he shall continue [more] years than the king of the north."




shall also carry... This is speaking of Egypt prevailing over Syria and their princes. He, Ptolemy III Euergetes (246-221), was victorious over the Syrian army (the king of the North), put Laodice to death, and returned to Egypt with many spoils.

precious vessels of... These precious things shall be carried as bounty back to Egypt, silver and gold and such.

continue more years... The death of Seleucus II was due to a fall from a horse. Ptolemy III survived him 4 or 5 years.





He was victorious over the Syrian army (the king of the North), put Laodice to death, and returned to Egypt with many spoils.

Romans Chapter 8 Vs. 20

 

Future Glory

For the creature was made subject to vanity, not willingly, but by reason of him who hath subjected the same in hope, Rom 8:20

subject to vanity... Greek: mataiotes, disappointing misery. Only here; Eph. 4:17; 2Pet. 2:18, but used in the Septuagint in Ecc. 1:14; 2:11, 2:17; 9:9; etc. People became vain willingly, but became subject to misery unwillingly.

Vanity has several meanings. Futility, emptiness, frailty, folly, all references to the curse of Genesis and considers the whole thing as unnecessary. Creation did not actively participate in the Fall.

This refers to the inability to achieve a goal or purpose. Because of man’s sin, God cursed the physical universe and now, no part of creation entirely fulfills God’s original purpose.

The reason for this eager anticipation is stated in Rom. 8:20. For the Creation was subjected to frustration. The Greek word mataiotēti (“futility, frailty, purposelessness”; cf. Eph. 4:17; 2Pet. 2:18) describes the change and “decay” (cf. Rom. 8:21) that prevails in all created things. This was not a voluntary subjection because the created world as such had no choice. Instead it was a decree of God, the sovereign Creator, who subjected it. (This probably refers to God, not, as some have suggested, to Adam.) And yet it was in hope, that is, in anticipation of a coming day when the “frustration” would be removed (cf. Rom. 8:24-25). God judged the totality of His Creation along with people for their sin (Gen. 3:14, 3:17-19).

Daniel Chapter 11 Vs. 7

The Kings of the South and the North

Daniel 11:7 "But out of a branch of her roots shall [one] stand up in his estate, which shall come with an army, and shall enter into the fortress of the king of the north, and shall deal against them, and shall prevail:"




out of a... A branch of the same roots from which Berenice sprang. Her brother, Ptolemy III, who had just succeeded to the Egyptian throne steps up in his fathers place. He at once invaded the Seleucid realm to avenge his sister who was murdered at Antioch. He annexed the eastern provinces to Egypt and ravaged the coasts of Asia Minor with his navy, 246 B.C. (Dan. 11:7-9).

in his estate... His: Ptolemy, the father of Berenice who is referred to in Dan. 11:6, as "he that strengthened her."

king of the... This was Seleucus II, son of Laodice who suffered defeat by Ptolemy III. He not only entered into the fortress of the king of the north, but plundered Seleucia, Susa, and Babylonia, even penetrating to the borders of India. Ptolemy III could not enjoy the fruit of his great victories due to trouble in his own country (Dan. 11:9). He did take many captives back to Egypt and the Egyptian gods which Cambyses, king of Persia, took from Egypt 300 years before (Dan. 11:8). Hence, he was called Euergetes (benefactor) by the Egyptians.

The murdered Berenice’s brother stood in his father’s place. His name was Ptolemy III Euergetes of Egypt (246-222 B.C.), and in reverse he conquered Syria, sacking their great treasure (verse 8).





Berenice’s brother, Ptolemy III Euergetes (246-221), succeeded his father and set out to avenge the death of his sister Berenice.

Romans Chapter 8 Vs. 19

 

Future Glory

For the earnest expectation of the creature waiteth for the manifestation of the sons of God. Rom 8:19

the earnest expectation... Greek: apokaradokia, anxious looking with outstretched body (Phlp. 3:20).

of the creature... Greek: ktisis. Creation (Mark 10:6; 13:19; Rom. 1:20; 8:22; 2Pet. 3:4; Rev. 3:14), creature (Mark 16:15; Rom. 1:25; 8:19-21, 8:39; 2Cor. 5:17; Gal. 6:15; Col. 1:15, 1:23; Heb. 4:13); building (Heb. 9:11); and ordinance (1Pet. 2:13). Here it refers to the whole creation waiting for the removal of the curse.

waiteth for the... Greek: apekdechomai, wait for (Rom. 8:19, 8:23, 8:25; 1Cor. 1:7; Gal. 5:5) and look for (Phlp. 3:20; Heb. 9:28; 1Pet. 3:20).

The creature or creation eagerly looks forward to the revelation of the sons of God in the Millennium (the 1000 year earthly reign), because that is the time when the curse will be lifted and creation will be restored to Edenic conditions.

Everyone who believes in Jesus the Christ is also earnestly awaiting the coming of Christ and our eternal life as a son of God. While we are in a fleshly body, it is our most blessed hope. When we leave this body, and are in heaven with Jesus, it will be a reality.

The interrelationship of man with the physical creation of which he is a part and in which he lives was established in God’s sentence of judgment on Adam after the Fall (Gen. 3:17-19). In Rom. 8:19-21 Paul demonstrated that this relationship has a future aspect in connection with God’s program of salvation for people. He declared, The Creation waits in eager expectation (lit., “for the strained expectation [apokaradokia is used only one other time in the NT, in Phlp. 1:20] of the Creation keeps on eagerly awaiting”) for the sons of God to be revealed. The verb for “eagerly waits” (apekdechomai) is used seven times in the New Testament, each time to refer to Christ’s return (Rom. 8:19, 8:23, 8:25; 1Cor. 1:7; Gal. 5:5; Phlp. 3:20; Heb. 9:28). The revealing of the sons of God will occur when Christ returns for His own. They will share His glory (Rom. 8:18; Col. 1:27; 3:4; Heb. 2:10), and will be transformed (Rom. 8:23). All of nature (inanimate and animate) is personified as waiting eagerly for that time.

Daniel Chapter 11 Vs. 6

The Kings of the South and the North

Daniel 11:6 "And in the end of years they shall join themselves together; for the king's daughter of the south shall come to the king of the north to make an agreement: but she shall not retain the power of the arm; neither shall he stand, nor his arm: but she shall be given up, and they that brought her, and he that begat her, and he that strengthened her in [these] times."




in the end years... Literally, "after some years"—about 65 years. Thus a number of historical events are passed over at this point (cp. 2Ch. 18:2).

they shall join... They: the kings of the north (Syria) and of the south (Egypt) shall make a league together. Having been in a bloody war for several years, they agreed to terminate it in 250 B.C. by the marriage of Berenice, daughter of Ptolemy II Philadelphus, king of Egypt, 285-247 B.C., to Antiochus II Theos, the king of Syria, 262-246 B.C. The marriage was on condition that Antiochus would put away his wife, Laodice, and her children, and this he did. Since Berenice brought an immense fortune to her husband, it seemed that all would go well. But after a while Antiochus recalled his former wife, Laodice, and her children; and she, fearing that he might later recall Berenice, caused him to be poisoned and Berenice to be murdered with her son. She then set her own son Callinicus (Seleucus II) upon the throne. He was called Antiochus II. Antiochus I reigned 280-262 B.C.

But she shall... Berenice shall not retain the power of the Syrian throne (her posterity shall not reign over Syria). This was fulfilled, for Antiochus II left her and her infant son in Antioch and returned to live with his divorced wife, Laodice, who was responsible for all three being killed.

neither shall he... This predicts the death of Antiochus II by Laodice who poisoned him and put her own son on the throne.

but she shall... Berenice shall not retain the power of the Syrian throne (her posterity shall not reign over Syria). This was fulfilled, for Antiochus II left her and her infant son in Antioch and returned to live with his divorced wife, Laodice, who was responsible for all three being killed (Dan. 11:6).

they that brought... The Egyptian women who accompanied Berenice from Egypt strove to defend her when she was murdered and many were killed.

he that begat... Literally, "he whom she brought forth," referring to the son of Berenice who was killed with her.

he that strengthened... This refers to her own father who gave her to Antiochus for a wife.

The king of Egypt shall enter into the kingdom of the north to make an agreement. It appears, a daughter tries to marry, to help the agreement to be signed. She is not accepted, and neither is the agreement signed. The expedition is a failure.

Berenice, daughter of Egypt’s Ptolemy II Philadelphus (285-246 B.C.), married Syria’s King Antiochus II Theos (261-246 B.C.). The latter part of the verse refers to the political advantage they hoped the alliance would produce. Antiochus divorced his wife to marry Berenice. Later that divorced wife murdered Berenice, her baby son, and even Antiochus by poisoning him. Thus she brought her own son, Seleucus II Callinicus, to the throne.





Ptolemy I Soter died in 285 b.c. and Ptolemy II Philadelphus, Ptolemy’s son, ruled in Egypt (285-246). Meanwhile Seleucus was murdered in 281 and his son Antiochus I Soter ruled till 262. Then Seleucus’ grandson Antiochus II Theos ruled in Syria (262-246). Ptolemy II and Antiochus II were bitter enemies but finally (after some years) they entered into an alliance in about 250. This alliance was sealed by the marriage of Ptolemy II’s daughter Berenice to Antiochus II. This marriage, however, did not last, for Laodice, whom Antiochus had divorced in order to marry Berenice, had Berenice killed (she was handed over). Laodice then poisoned Antiochus II and made her son, Seleucus II Callinicus, king (246-227).

Romans Chapter 8 Vs. 18

 

Future Glory

For I reckon that the sufferings of this present time are not worthy to be compared with the glory which shall be revealed in us. Rom 8:18

sufferings of this... No suffering can compare with the eternal glory (2Cor. 4:17; 1Cor. 2:9).

In short, this describes the trials and tribulations that we go through in this life on earth. Paul puts this clearly (in 2Cor. 4:17), when he says: “For our light affliction, which is but for a moment, worketh for us a far more exceeding and eternal weight of glory”.

Paul’s own testimony lists a seemingly unbearable litany of sufferings and persecutions he endured throughout his life, yet he viewed them as weightless and lasting for only a brief moment. To Paul the future glory he would experience with the Lord far outweighed any suffering he experienced in this world. Paul understood that the greater the suffering, the greater would be his eternal glory.

Paul can speak from first-hand about suffering. He was stoned, shipwrecked, and so many times left for dead: suffering was no stranger to him.

with the glory... Looks forward to the resurrection of the body and the subsequent complete Christ likeness which is the believer’s eternal glory.

We can easily see that this present suffering is minor compared to the great glory we will receive when Jesus recognizes us as His when we stand before Him in heaven.

Goal of sanctification

In one sense this verse is the conclusion of the preceding paragraph in which believers are assured of being heirs of Christ’s coming glory. However, Paul reminded his readers that sharing in the glory of Christ in the future required sharing “in His sufferings” in this life. But after careful figuring (Logizomai, I consider) Paul concluded that our present sufferings are far outweighed by the glory that will be revealed in (as well as to and through) us. This future glory is so great that present sufferings are insignificant by comparison. Also the glory is forever, whereas the suffering is temporary and light (2Co. 4:17). Certainly this truth can help believers endure afflictions. Rom. 8:18 also serves as a topic sentence for the following discussion on the relationship between believers and the whole Creation, both in their afflictions and in their future glory.

Daniel Chapter 11 Vs. 5

The Kings of the South and the North

Daniel 11:5 "And the king of the south shall be strong, and [one] of his princes; and he shall be strong above him, and have dominion; his dominion [shall be] a great dominion."




and the king... Represents the Ptolomies, the leaders of Egypt, contrasted often in verse 5 with the king of the north, the Seleucids leaders of Syria (v.6). South and North are in relation to Israel, for which the angel Gabriel, speaking in the passage, is so concerned. Verses 5 - 20 cover almost 200 years of wars between these bordering powers.

The conflict between the Ptolemies and the Seleucids (Dan. 11:5-20).

The strong king of the South was Ptolemy I Soter, a general who served under Alexander. He was given authority over Egypt in 323 b.c. and proclaimed king of Egypt in 304. Seleucus I Nicator, also a general under Alexander, was given authority to rule in Babylon in 321. But in 316 when Babylon came under attack by Antigonus, another general, Seleucus sought help from Ptolemy I Soter in Egypt.

shall be strong... He became strong, for he added Cyprus, Phoenicia, Caria, Corinth, etc. to his kingdom of Egypt. After Antigonus’ defeat in 312, Seleucus returned to Babylon greatly strengthened. He ruled over Babylonia, Media, and Syria, and assumed the title of king in 305. Thus Seleucus I Nicator’s rule was over far more territory than Ptolemy I Soter’s.

one of his... This was Seleucus I, called Nicator, the Conqueror, founder of the Seleucid Empire, 312-280 B.C. He lost out to Antigonus who conquered Babylonia in 316 B.C. Seleucus fled to Egypt and distinguished himself as one of the commanders of Ptolemy I, hence, he is called a prince of Ptolemy (Dan.11:5).

a great dominion... In the victory won by Ptolemy at Gaza, 312 B.C., the way was opened for Seleucus to return to Babylonia. In 9 years he won the whole of the eastern part of Alexander’s empire. In 301 B.C. he added Syria and part of Asia Minor to his empire. The Seleucid era was from 312-65 B.C. when the kingdom of Syria was reduced by Pompey to a Roman province.

The conflict between the Ptolemies and the Seleucids 

The Ptolemies who ruled over Egypt, were called the kings “of the South.” The Seleucids, ruling over Syria, north of Israel, were called the kings “of the North.” This section (Dan. 11:5-20) gives many details of the continuous conflict between the Ptolemies and the Seleucids during which the land of Israel was invaded first by one power and then by the other.

The strong king of the South was Ptolemy I Soter, a general who served under Alexander. He was given authority over Egypt in 323 b.c. and proclaimed king of Egypt in 304. The commander referred to in Dan. 11:5 was Seleucus I Nicator, also a general under Alexander, who was given authority to rule in Babylon in 321. But in 316 when Babylon came under attack by Antigonus, another general, Seleucus sought help from Ptolemy I Soter in Egypt. After Antigonus’ defeat in 312, Seleucus returned to Babylon greatly strengthened. He ruled over Babylonia, Media, and Syria, and assumed the title of king in 305. Thus Seleucus I Nicator’s rule was over far more territory than Ptolemy I Soter’s.

Romans Chapter 8 Vs. 17

Heirs with Christ

And if children, then heirs; heirs of God, and joint-heirs with Christ; if so be that we suffer with him, that we may be also glorified together. Rom 8:17

And if children,... The 1st New Testament prophecy in Romans (Rom. 8:17-25). Next, Rom. 11:25. Not only children, but also heirs (Rom. 8:17; Eph. 3:6; Heb. 11:9; 1Pet. 3:7).

if so be... This refers to our sufferings for His sake, as all are called to endure (Rom. 8:17-18; Col. 1:24; 2Tim. 2:12; 3:12).

also glorified together... All will be glorified together with Christ (Col. 3:4; 1Thes. 4:13-17; 1Cor. 15:23, 15:51-58).

If you are a believer, you are an heir of God. We will then inherit eternal salvation, God Himself, glory and everything in the universe.

Unlike the Jewish practice of the primacy of the firstborn son, under Roman law the inheritance was divided equally between the children, where the law more carefully protected possessions that had been inherited.

joint-heirs with... God has appointed His Son to be heir of all things. Every adopted child will receive by divine grace the full inheritance Christ receives by divine right.

suffer with Him... Is proof of the believer’s ultimate glory in that he suffers, whether it comes as mockery, ridicule, or physical persecution, because of his Lord.

In many families children inherit their parents’ estates; each child is an heir and the children together are co-heirs. Similarly, since Christians are God’s children, they are His heirs (cf. Gal. 4:7), and they are co-heirs with Christ. They are recipients of all spiritual blessings (Eph. 1:3) now, and in the future they will share with the Lord Jesus in all the riches of God’s kingdom (John 17:24; 1Cor. 3:21-23). Sharing with Jesus Christ, however, involves more than anticipating the glories of heaven. For Jesus Christ it involved suffering and abuse and crucifixion; therefore being co-heirs with Christ requires that believers share in His sufferings (cf. John 15:20; Col. 1:24; 2Tim. 3:12; 1Pet. 4:12). In fact believers do share in His sufferings; if indeed translates eiper, which means “if, as is the fact” (cf. Rom. 8:9). Then after the suffering they will share in His glory (2Tim. 2:12; 1Pet. 4:13; 5:10). 

Daniel Chapter 11 Vs. 4

The Kings of the South and the North

Daniel 11:4 And when he shall stand up, his kingdom shall be broken, and shall be divided toward the four winds of heaven; and not to his posterity, nor according to his dominion which he ruled: for his kingdom shall be plucked up, even for others beside those.




kingdom shall be... This refers to the breaking up of the Grecian Empire into 4 divisions after the death of Alexander the Great. The period from Alexander to the conquest of these 4 kingdoms by the Romans (336-100 B.C.) is called the Hellenistic or Alexandrian Age. For a time the generals of the army agreed to rule the various parts of the empire until Alexander’s son by Roxane became of age to take the throne, but they all really desired to become king of the province they held. In 311 B.C. the child and his mother were murdered. Then the struggle for power became an open contest. Antigonus, one of the most able generals of Alexander, used Syria as a base to conquer the whole empire for himself. In 301 B.C. he was defeated by 4 other generals and slain. The 4 great generals then divided the empire.

not to his... This simply means that Alexander’s kingdom was to be divided among others who were not of his posterity nor according to the dominion by which he ruled. In 15 years not one of Alexander’s family, including 3 wives, 2 sons, his brother and wife, and mother, was left alive. Alexander founded no dynasty of rulers; since he had no heirs, his kingdom was divided and the empire was marked by division and weakness.

his kingdom shall... His kingdom was to be plucked up, even for others besides the 4 generals that would seize the greatest part of his empire. Minor parts of the empire did go to others from which they were taken.

Even this great kingdom, falls to the Roman Empire.

The king of the South is Egypt. One of the princes under the king rises to overthrow the king. The king of the North (Aram or Syria), receive emphasis in v.5 and after. As time moved on other leaders ruled, crossing and re-crossing Israel.





A few years after Alexander’s death, his kingdom was divided among his four generals (cf. Dan. 8:22): Seleucus (over Syria and Mesopotamia), Ptolemy (over Egypt), Lysimacus (over Thrace and portions of Asia Minor), and Cassander (over Macedonia and Greece). This division was anticipated through the four heads of the leopard (Dan. 7:6) and the four prominent horns on the goat (Dan. 8:8).

Romans Chapter 8 Vs. 16

Heirs with Christ

The Spirit itself beareth witness with our spirit, that we are the children of God: Rom 8:16

the Spirit itself... Himself, for He is a person. Holy Spirit.

with our spirit... Our mind or understanding (1Cor. 2:11).

In Roman culture for an adoption to be legally binding, seven reputable witnesses had to be present, attesting to its validity.

God’s Holy Spirit confirms the validity of our adoption, not by some inner, mystical voice, but by the fruit He produces in us and the power He provides for spiritual service.

Notice, this first Spirit in the sentence above is Capitalized meaning the Holy Spirit of God (or the Spirit of the risen Christ). This Spirit within us is God’s Spirit. There is plenty of evidence in our lives when this Spirit dwells within us, because we allow Christ to live through our actions and deeds. We become Christ like.

Besides being adopted into God’s family as sons, believers also are His children (tekna, “born ones”) by the new birth (John 1:12; 1Jhn. 3:1-2). And the Holy Spirit, who gives believers life, testifies with (not to) their spirit(s) of the fact of the new birth. 

Daniel Chapter 11 Vs. 3

The Kings of the South and the North

Daniel 11:3 "And a mighty king shall stand up, that shall rule with great dominion, and do according to his will."

History under Greece

And a mighty... This is Alexander the Great who carried out the plans of his father, Philip of Macedon, to invade the Persian Empire. The war began in 336 B.C. when Alexander came to the throne of Greece and Macedon. He had only 35,000 soldiers and $75,000 to start the war with, while the Persian king had a yearly revenue of $11,000,000, many millions in the treasury, and hundreds of thousands of soldiers, besides a great navy. He hired 50,000 Greek soldiers with Greek generals. But in 13 years Alexander conquered the whole Persian Empire and beyond. He literally did "according to his will," fulfilling Dan. 11:3.

that shall rule... This mighty king Alexander whose rise had been foreshadowed by (a) the bronze belly and thighs of Nebuchadnezzar’s image (Dan. 2:32, 2:39), (b) the winged leopard (Dan. 7:6), and (c) the prominent horn of the goat (Dan. 8:5-8). Between 334 and 330 b.c. Alexander conquered Asia Minor, Syria, Egypt, and the land of the Medo-Persian Empire.

and do according... His conquests extended as far as India, he was powerful in his rule, many thought he might rule the world, he did according to his will, before Alexander’s death at the age of 32 in 323 b.c. from malaria with complications from alcoholism.

Romans Chapter 8 Vs.15

 

Heirs with Christ

For ye have not received the spirit of bondage again to fear; but ye have received the Spirit of adoption, whereby we cry, Abba, Father. Rom 8:15

spirit of bondage... Spirit and nature of Satan (Eph. 2:2; John 8:44; 1Jhn. 3:8; Heb. 2:14-15). You have not received a spirit of slavery to relapse again into fear and terror, but you have received the Spirit of freedom and sonship to break every bondage.

the Spirit of... Spirit and nature of God (Rom. 5:5; 8:2, 8:9, 8:11, 8:15-16; Gal. 4:4-6).

spirit of adoption... Sonship (Rom. 8:15, 8:23; 9:4; Gal. 4:5; Eph. 1:5). Adopted sons share the same rights and privileges as one born in the family. The Spirit of adoption isn’t a reference to the transaction by which God adopts us, but to a Spirit produced awareness of the rich reality that God has made us His children, therefore we can come before Him without fear or hesitation as our beloved Father.

Cry, Abba, Father... Slaves were never allowed to say Abba to a master or Imma to a mistress.

Unregenerate people are slaves to their fear of death because of their life of sin, and to fear their final punishment.

A very similar Scripture is in 1 Corinthians.

1Cor. 2:12 “Now we have received, not the spirit of the world, but the spirit which is of God; that we might know the things that are freely given to us of God.”

When God adopted us into his family, then that made us heirs to all he possesses. We will be joint-heirs with Jesus as we read (in verse 17 of Romans 8). There are 3 places in the New Testament Abba is used; one here (in Romans 8:15); once (in Mark 14:36), and once (in Gal. 4:6).

Mark 14:36 “And he said, Abba, Father, all things [are] possible unto thee; take away this cup from me: nevertheless not what I will, but what thou wilt.”

Gal. 4:6 “And because ye are sons, God hath sent forth the Spirit of his Son into your hearts, crying, Abba, Father.”

We see in all of these 3 verses, that this name is reserved for only the children of God to call Him by meaning Daddy or Papa and connotes tenderness, dependence, and a relationship free of fear or anxiety.

In contrast with the control of sin, which enslaves to the point of fear, believers have received the Spirit of sonship. The word translated “sonship” (huiothesias) means “placing as a son” and is frequently translated “adoption” (as in, e.g., Rom. 8:23). Believers are adopted sons (Gal. 4:5; Eph. 1:5), not slaves (Gal. 4:7); so they need not be enslaved to sin or in fear. In New Testament times adopted sons enjoyed the same privileges as natural-born sons. So, instead of cowering in slave-like fear, Christians can approach God in an intimate way calling Him Abba, Father. “Abba” is a Greek and English transliteration of the Aramaic word for father (used elsewhere in the NT only in Mark 14:36; Gal. 4:6).