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"These things." The only question as to the meaning of this expression is, whether it covers the whole Epistle, or is to be confined to this chapter or to the immediately preceding verses. In any case the emphasis of the appeal must be chiefly on the last — things which are so much above the reach of the carnal mind, and so likely to produce a feeling of wonder or revolt. There the things are; they cannot be reasoned away. "We can do nothing against the truth, but for the truth.

I. THE FACT. The world will have much to say against the doctrines of grace. "But if God be for us," then we can afford to have the world against us. The plan of mercy which determines the way of salvation may surpass all human wisdom and experience, but if it be God's plan it will take effect. The method of grace by which the sinner's heart is renewed may surpass the carnal judgment. Yet if it be God's method it will work His purpose in spite of man's ridicule and unbelief. The subserviency of Providence to the purposes of redemption will work itself out, though men may be blind to the issue. Now let us apply this to our —

1. Doctrinal opinions. God is for us when our views are in accordance with the Scripture. Reason, experience, received opinions, learning and wisdom, may seem to be against us, but God is more than all. "Let God be true and every man a liar."

2. The interest and safety of attainments and privileges of the believer's state. The world has much to say upon the subject of the work of grace. There are some who resolve the facts of Christian experience into disease or deception. According to our view this work of grace is God's most beautiful and costly work. Now, if we are indeed God's workmanship, if what we call the work of grace be indeed the work of the Holy Spirit, then we may say in the view of the world's contumely and scorn, "If God be for us, who then can be against us?"

3. The believer's safety. The text does not imply the absence of danger and opposition. Both Scripture and experience teach us the contrary. The meaning is that nothing shall prevail against us (2. Chronicles 32:7, 8).

4. The interest which believers have in the plan of Providence. According to the teaching of the apostle, the entire administration of this present world is determined in the interest of Christ and His Church. Yet how strangely does it appear to be contradicted by the facts around us. How often is the cause of slavery and tyranny seen to triumph over the cause of freedom or piety! But faith, when asked, What shall we say to these things? is still ready with its reply, "If God be for us, who can be against us?"

II. ITS INFLUENCE. It will produce —

1. An independence, in matters of conscience and religion, of human authority. Independence of man is necessary to a thorough dependence on God (Acts 4:19). Thus Luther, "Here I stand, I cannot recant; I rest on the Word of God. Let God see to it."

2. A spirit of patience under the pressure of trial. If God is with us, on our side, why should we faint in our minds?

3. Confidence of the final triumph of the Christian's interest, and the clearing up of all the dark clouds that rest upon the ways of God. Iniquity shall not always prevail.

(P. Strutt.)

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KJV: What shall we then say to these things? If God be for us, who can be against us?

WEB: What then shall we say about these things? If God is for us, who can be against us?