ISB ~ Romans 8 v35

Who shall separate . . .?:Paul denies suffering the power to cut us off from Christ. In his mind, only sin can pry us away from his grace (1 Cor 6:9-10; Gal 5:4). See note on 1 Jn 5:16-17. tribulation … or sword?: Afflictions commonly linked with the curses that God lets loose upon Israel when they abandon the covenant (Lev 26:21-26; Deut 28:48; Jer 29:18). This background sets the stage for 8:36.