16For I am not ashamed of the gospel, because it is the power of God that brings salvation to everyone who believes: first to the Jew, then to the Gentile.
17For in the gospel the righteousness of God is revealed—a righteousness that is by faith from first to last, just as it is written: "The righteous will live by faith."
- P27
11I long to see you so that I may impart to you some spiritual gift to make you strong—
12that is, that you and I may be mutually encouraged by each other’s faith.
- P26
Paul knows that Rome is an influential city, and although he has not yet had a chance to minister there, he thanks God because the faith of the Romans is being reported all over the world! Paul writes his letter to share more about God and to let the Romans know that he prays often for them. - P28
Whether we are in influential cities or remote towns, let us share the gospel freely and confidently, knowing that the Spirit is at work sparking faith in unexpected places and in unexpected ways. - P28
And let us not hesitate to encourage believers—even those we have not met—because we recognize that they are our brothers and sisters in Christ all over the world. - P28
Heavenly Father, You are still at work in this world to make Your gospel spread rapidly. Guide me in doing my part to support my brothers and sisters all around the world, and fill me with Your zeal so that I may boldly proclaim the gospel wherever I go. In Jesus’ name, amen. - P29
Paul thanks God for the Romans and prays for them continually. He wants tovisit them and strengthen them in their shared faith. - P27
Paul is eager to preachthe gospel, which is the power of God that brings salvation. The gospel revealsthe righteousness of God, a righteousness that is by faith from first to last. - P27
In the prominent city of Rome where power, wealth, and social class arevalued, the very small minority of Christians could easily have felt ashamedof being followers of Jesus. However, Paul boldly proclaims that he is notashamed of the gospel. He is eager to preach the gospel to all, regardless ofethnic background or level of understanding, because it holds God‘s powerto save and reveals the righteousness He offers to those who believe. - P28
Theremay be times when we are tempted to hide the fact that we are Christiansout of fear of criticism or judgment. Instead, may we be like Paul, un-ashamedly proclaiming Christ and excited to see the power of God bringingsalvation to everyone who believes in Him. - P28
Despite some negative interactions, I was ultimately proud to study theol-ogy because I knew it was certainly not an easy subject and not a decisionI came to lightly. Some of those who judged me harshly discovered overtime that I was actually a "normal" person and not an intolerant and overlyconservative one. With the Holy Sprit‘s guidance, I was able to representChrist through my character and words. - P29
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