Jack Hibbs : What Do You Know For Sure? (Romans 15:1-6)
As Christians, we often find ourselves asking the big questions of life, faith, and eternity. In today’s uncertain world, with so much confusion in society and division even within the body of Christ, it’s more important than ever that we anchor ourselves in God’s Word and the promises He has given us. This powerful message based on Romans 15:1-6 takes us deep into these truths, offering encouragement, perspective, and assurance to believers in every stage of their walk with Christ.
Standing Firm in Turbulent Times
If you have your Bible nearby, open it to Romans 15:1-6. This passage calls believers to a high standard—to bear one another’s weaknesses and to put the good of others ahead of pleasing ourselves. In a time when the world is more divided than ever before, we’re reminded that some divides are necessary. Just as the continental divide determines the direction water flows, spiritual divides reveal where we truly stand.
We’re living in an age where the difference between ‘the church’ as a social institution and ‘God’s Church’ is being exposed. Not everyone who holds a Bible or enters a church building is necessarily a follower of Jesus. Today, God is allowing a separation—a shaking—to see what is genuine and what is not. As Paul writes, the measure isn’t just what we say, but how we live out our faith and love for one another.
The Call to Authentic Christianity
The true Church is not defined by cultural labels or attendance, but by life transformation and loyalty to Christ. In recent times, testimonies abound of people coming to Christ, a wave sweeping through congregations. This is exciting, but it’s only the beginning. Real revival is more than an emotional response—it’s seen in enduring faith, holiness, and a community set apart for God’s purposes.
This is also where many believers experience pushback. When the world criticizes you for your faith, it’s a sign that your values have truly changed. Jesus warned that those who follow Him will walk the same path He did—and at times, that means enduring rejection, misunderstanding, and even hostility. But take heart; this is not defeat, but evidence that God’s work is alive in you.
Why the Scriptures Matter—Both Old and New Testament
Romans 15 is rich with Old Testament references. Paul wants us to understand that what was written beforehand is for our learning today. The reliability of the New Testament is rooted in the fulfillment of ancient prophecies and promises—there’s a seamless connection, a divine consistency from Genesis to Revelation.
The heroes of the faith in the Old Testament, like Isaiah and Jeremiah, looked forward to the Messiah. The New Testament records the fulfillment in Christ. When Jesus cleansed the temple, the disciples remembered Psalm 69:9, “Zeal for your house has eaten me up.” This deep scriptural unity assures us that our faith has a solid foundation, and it’s vital for every believer to study both testaments, not just for knowledge, but for growing hope and confidence in God’s plan.
Recognizing Jesus as Messiah—Scripture’s Testimony
Jesus didn’t just quote the Old Testament—He embodied it. In John 5, He challenged the religious leaders: you study the Scriptures, but you refuse to come to Me even though they testify about Me. On the road to Emmaus in Luke 24, the risen Lord explained to two disciples how all the Scriptures pointed to Him. Their hearts burned as He opened the Word—they realized that the whole narrative of redemption was coming true before their eyes.
This underscores a critical point: Christian faith is not grounded in myth or speculation, but in the historical fulfillment of God’s promises. The same Jesus who walked with the disciples—who died for our sins, was buried, and rose again—is the one who still calls us today.
Our Names Written in Heaven
One of the most comforting truths for the believer is the assurance that our names are written in the Book of Life. Scripture describes two books in God’s heavenly courtroom: the Book of Life, recording every living soul who has ever existed, and the Lamb’s Book of Life, which contains the names of those who have put their trust in Jesus Christ.
Everyone begins with their name in the Book of Life. The question is: have you moved from the general ledger into God’s eternal family? The only way to secure your name forever is to believe in Jesus, the Lamb of God. Those whose names aren’t found in the Lamb’s Book of Life will one day face judgment, but for everyone who believes, heaven is a certainty.
Why Assurance Matters
Our confidence isn’t based on our performance or religious effort. Faith in Christ means you’re not just “hoping for the best”—you can have deep confidence in God’s promise. Jesus said, “My sheep hear my voice, and I know them, and they follow me” (John 10:27). If you truly desire to follow Him, even when you don’t feel strong or perfect, that longing comes from His Spirit within you. Grace meets us where we are, but God calls us to grow, to press in, and to persevere.
The Truth About Following Jesus
Walking with Christ isn’t always smooth or popular. Sometimes it brings criticism, misunderstanding, or even hostility from others. Jesus said to rejoice when the world reviles you on account of Him, for it proves your allegiance is secure. Even as society pushes back against biblical truth, remember, “If God is for us, who can be against us?” (Romans 8:31). Yes, opposition may come, but it cannot touch the assurance we have in Christ.
There’s real spiritual warfare in this world, as demonic deception intensifies, but Christ has given His followers authority and protection. He told His disciples not to rejoice merely in spiritual victory, but because their names are written in heaven. That is our unshakable hope.
