We stand in a place of undeserved privilege

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“Therefore, since we have been made right in God’s sight by faith, we have peace with God because of what Jesus Christ our Lord has done for us. 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.” (Rom. 5:1-2 NLT)

Privilege defined

Privilege comes from the Latin word privilegium, and means a benefit enjoyed by an individual or group beyond what's available to others. Being a member of an exclusive club, organization, or group brings  privileges for its members. Family members have privileges that only apply to family members.

Having privileges is wonderful

In 1968, I was stationed at Fort Rucker, Alabama, US Army Aviation Center. I was in charge of three music centers at the base. The job came with many privileges; I lived in a nice apartment, wore a  monogrammed jumpsuit, and I had a “go-to-the-front-of-the-line” meal card to use at all the base mess halls. When I was hungry, I just walked into any one of them, then to the front of the line and showed my card. It was great to have all those special privileges.

We have many privileges as members of God’s family

The Bible passage at top says we have “undeserved privilege” provided to us through faith in Jesus Christ. Here are some of them

We are adopted in God’s family which  brings many wonderful privileges

  • Privilege of being a co-heir with Christ “Now if we are children, then we are heirs--heirs of God and co-heirs with Christ…” (Rom. 8:17).
  • Privilege of having bold access to God “Let us therefore come boldly to the throne of grace, that we may obtain mercy and find grace to help in time of need. (Heb. 4:16 NKJV)
  • Privilege of having a new home waiting in heaven “But according to His promise we are looking for new heavens and a new earth, in which righteousness dwells.” (2 Peter 3:13 NASB)
  • Privilege of being Blessed “Blessed be the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, who has blessed us with every spiritual blessing in the heavenly places in Christ.” (Eph. 1:3 NASB)
  • Privilege of using His Name “If you ask Me anything in My name, I will do it.” (John 14:14 NASB)
  • Privilege of having all of God’s promises “For no matter how many promises God has made, they are "Yes" in Christ.” (2 Cor. 1:20 NIV)
  • Privilege of sharing the good news with others “And he said to them, “Go into all the world and proclaim the gospel to the whole creation.” (Mark 16:15 ESV)