And we know that for those who love God all things work together for good, for those who are called according to his purpose.  Romans 8:28

A. The Ministries of the Holy Spirit Romans 8:1-27

B. The Promise of Assurance Romans 8:28-30

1. The personal assurance in the promise – “we know”

2. The Giver of the promise: Our Sovereign God

3. The recipients of the promise: those who love God, called

Romans 8:28

a) The promise is for those who love God by obedience to His Word John 14:15

b) The promise is for those who are called by God

1) The general (external) call of God: Mark 16:15; Acts 17:30

2) The effectual (internal) call of God: Romans 1:1; Romans 1:6-7

c) Affirming our effectual calling by God 2 Peter 1:10

1) Have I come to and am I trusting Jesus Christ for forgiveness?

Matthew 11:28-30; Ephesians 1:7, Psalm 130:4

2) Does my life give evidence of new birth?

– The Fear of God governing my life: Jeremiah 32:38-40

– A Beatitude life forming: Matthew 5:1-11

3) Am I developing and practicing Spirit produced character?

2 Peter 1:3-10

4) Do I hunger for and enjoy fellowship with God?

1 Corinthians 1:9; Psalm 42:1-2; Psalm 63:1-4

5) Am I conforming to the holy image of the Lord Jesus?

Galatians 5:22-23