Daily Bible Plan - Romans 5

21st May 2025

Devotion by Pastor Joseph Antwi

Fortified City Church & Love City Church, Basel

Grace That Reigns over Death

Devotion by Pastor Joseph Antwi

Read: Romans Chapter 5

Key Scripture:

Romans 5:8“But God demonstrates His own love for us in this: While we were still sinners, Christ died for us.”

⸻

Devotion:

Romans 5 opens with one of the most powerful declarations in the New Testament:

“Therefore, since we have been justified by faith, we have peace with God through our Lord Jesus Christ.” (v.1)

This peace is not the absence of problems, but the presence of a reconciled relationship with God—one that gives us access to grace and fills us with a hope that does not disappoint.

⸻

Reflection from Pastor Joseph:

Think for a moment—how often do you find someone willing to die for a good person? In this world, you’re considered valuable only when you’re useful. The moment you are no longer needed, people can forget you.

But Christ—knowing how unfaithful and ungrateful we would be—still chose to die for us. He didn’t wait for us to become perfect. He died while we were still sinners: broken, selfish, lost, and without compassion.

Wowowo! What kind of love is this?

“But God demonstrates His own love for us in this: While we were still sinners, Christ died for us.” — Romans 5:8

It just takes faith in Jesus to receive this eternal gift. Wowowowow! What a Savior!

⸻

My Personal Journey:

Before I became a pastor, I didn’t want anything to do with ministry. I told my mentor clearly: “I don’t think I’ll ever be a pastor.”

I wanted a life of peace—free from burden. When I saw what other pastors went through, I ran from the call.

Worse still, I felt unqualified. I thought I didn’t even deserve to be a cleaner in God’s house—let alone His servant.

But when I was still a sinner, Christ found me worthy to lead His people in His vineyard.

Today, I am humbled to see that God has entrusted me with so many people—not just within FCC Basel, but also beyond—to teach, train, and raise for His Kingdom.

What a privilege. What undeserved grace.

“Because of our faith, Christ has brought us into this place of undeserved privilege where we now stand, and we confidently and joyfully look forward to sharing God’s glory.” — Romans 5:2

This truth still humbles me.

It’s not about who I am—it’s about His grace.

⸻

Finding Strength in Suffering:

Verse 3 comforts me greatly as a pastor. People see the platform but not the pain.

But the Word says:

“We can rejoice, too, when we run into problems and trials, for we know that they help us develop endurance.”

“And endurance develops strength of character, and character strengthens our confident hope of salvation.” — Romans 5:3–4

Dear one, if you are going through trials of any kind —pain,  rejection, disappointment—it’s not meant to destroy you.

It’s part of the process. It’s God shaping your heart, building your endurance, and forming your character. That’s what gives you a confident hope of salvation.

⸻

The Great Exchange:

From verse 12 to 21, Paul explains the difference between Adam and Jesus.

Adam’s one sin brought death and condemnation to all. But Jesus’ one act of obedience brought life and righteousness to all who believe.

“Because one person disobeyed God, many became sinners. But because one other person obeyed God, many will be made righteous.” — Romans 5:19

Instead of being angry at Adam, rejoice in what Jesus has done! He reversed the curse.

You are no longer condemned—you are made righteous through Christ!

⸻

Final Word:

Congratulations!

You have received this free gift of eternal life. Treasure it. Walk in it. And don’t keep it to yourself—share it!

⸻

Prayer:

Lord Jesus, thank You for dying for me while I was still a sinner. Thank You for bringing me into this place of undeserved privilege. Help me rejoice through every trial, knowing You are shaping me. Let my life be a testimony of Your grace. I receive Your gift of righteousness, and I will share it with others. In Your name, Amen.

⸻

NOW DO THIS:

1. Share your thoughts on Romans 5:1–21 in the church WhatsApp group.

Encourage someone with what stood out to you.

2. Send this devotion to 10 people.

Be a vessel of grace. Someone needs this word today!

Loads of love,

Pastor Joseph Antwi

For prayer & counseling send message to WhatsApp: +41796636324