Paul has outlined a very bleak picture of the human condition as being dead, disobedient and doomed (v1-3). Now he focuses on where hope is to be found. Due to the condition of people all hope must be found outside of themselves (v4).

The only hope for sinners is the intervention of God. Here we have one of the great ‘But God’ statements of the Bible (v4). We’re dead, disobedient and doomed, there is nothing we can do, but God steps in. God steps in not because we deserve it (for we don’t), but because He is rich in mercy.

The resurrection power of Christ is applied to the sinner’s heart so that they are made spiritually alive in Christ (v5). New spiritual life means they can understand, trust, love and follow Christ. This Paul says happens as a gift of grace, God’s undeserved favour reaching down into the lives of those God the Father has chosen. Here we see clearly that salvation is all of the Lord.

Paul then says something truly amazing (v6). The Christian is united even now with Christ in heaven. This reality is worked out as we commune with Christ in glory. Our prayers, our praise enter the throne of heaven.

The goal of this work of salvation is the praise of God for the immeasurable riches of His grace (v7). Speak to God now about the wonder of this grace.