In Pastor Mel's sermon on Romans 5:1-11, he teaches about God’s transformation of humanity. Because we have been made right by faith, we now enjoy peace with God through Jesus (and therefore peace with ourselves). We stand in undeserved grace, and confidently rejoice in the hope of sharing God’s glory. Even trials produce endurance, character, and an unshakeable hope that never disappoints, since God has poured His love into our hearts through the Holy Spirit—the true evidence of His affection that so many opt out of. At just the right time, while we were utterly helpless sinners and enemies of God, Christ died for us, reconciling us, saving us from condemnation, and restoring friendship with God. Much like Abraham was called God’s friend, Jesus declares His obedient followers to be His friends rather than slaves.