Putting Down Evil, Lifting Up Friends

As we have journeyed through this magnificent letter Paul wrote to the Romans,
you’ll recall that on several occasions he wove into his writings both benedictions and
doxologies. The first appears in 11:36, the next in 15:33, and another in 16:20. And so,
we’re not surprised that when Paul came to his closing words, he wrote his final—and
longest—benediction. Each of the benedictions in this letter points the reader’s
attention to the living God, emphasizing one or more of God’s attributes. This final
ascription, as we shall see in this message, unveils some of the most significant truths
found anywhere in Holy Scripture about our heavenly Father. They exalt the plan, the
wisdom, and the glory that belong to Him—and only to Him.