The Advantage we have

Romans 3:1-2: What advantage then hath the Jew? Or what profit is there of circumcision? Much every way: chiefly, because that unto them were committed the oracles of God.

An oracle is defined in my dictionary as a person or thing regarded as an infallible authority or guide on something.

The Jewish believers addressed in Romans 2 were still trying to earn God's favor through works. They also felt that they had a special place with God because of they were Jews. Paul debunked that thought in Romans 2:11 "For there is no respect of persons with God."

So the Jews had a question... "Well, what was the point, then? What was the advantage of being God's chosen people?" To which Paul replied, "Unto you were committed the oracles of God." The Jews were the only nation to enjoy hearing prophecies from God. They were the only ones unto whom His word was given, at that time.

Brothers and sisters, we have that same advantage. Unto us (God's churches) have been committed the oracles of God... His Word. We have the Holy Bible and the Holy Spirit to help us understand the Bible. God has entrusted us with this treasure and commissioned us to share this treasure with others (II Corinthians 4:7).

We have His Word. His Word builds our faith (if we read it, Romans 10:17). That faith helps us to know Christ (Philippians 3:8-10). Having that ongoing personal relationship with God gives us the ability to trust God through great troubles and distresses.

I know people who fear the next terrorist attack. I know those who are struggling to save their businesses, marriages, to get their kids to behave well, to better themselves. For some of these people, they have no hope beyond what they have on this earth.

For us, we know that whatever terrorist attack happens, whatever event befalls us in our lives, we can trust the Lord to either pull us through it, or carry us home. That is the advantage we have. Let's share it with others.