Romans 1 - 10.8.24
SCRIPTURE
16 For 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. 17 For 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.” Romans 1:16 – 17
OBSERVATION
Paul is writing to the believers in Rome where he recounts his desire to come and encourage them all. He writes in verse 11 “I long to see you so that I may impart to you some spiritual gift to make you strong— 12 that is, that you and I may be mutually encouraged by each other’s faith.” He shares his passion, obligation, and eagerness to share the gospel with “Greeks, non-Greeks, wise and the foolish.” Paul’s deep passion was in sharing the gospel to everyone and encourage the faithful.
Paul then solidifies his position as a believer in the gospel message and that God provides salvation to “everyone who believes: first to the Jew, then to the Gentile.” See when Jesus died on the cross, salvation was now open to ALL. Matthew 27:50 – 52 says “And when Jesus had cried out again in a loud voice, he gave up his spirit. At that moment the curtain of the temple was torn in two from top to bottom. The earth shook, the rocks split and the tombs broke open. The bodies of many holy people who had died were raised to life.” The torn curtain symbolized that the barrier between God and man had been removed.
APPLICATION
When I was a kid, I would eagerly watch The Ten Commandments every year. I was in awe of God’s power that was shown in the movie. Later I found a Bible and decided to read along the entire story that was shown in The Ten Commandments movie. I was brought to faith by the power of God shown in the Old Testament scriptures. His Word brings faith. That’s why reading God’s Word, the Bible, is so important for us: it grows our faith more and more.
While reading the Old Testament scriptures, I realized how special the Jewish people were to God. I wondered if a non-Jewish person would be special to God as well. Later, when the salvation was message was shared with me, I realized God did love me as well. Paul’s message in this scripture solidifies what I experienced by faith: that God’s salvation message is for everyone!
PRAYER
Lord, thank you for your love that is never ending. Throughout time you’ve shown that your love endures. In the beginning, your message was only for the Jews. It was exclusive. After Jesus, the salvation message is for everyone. Hallelujah!! You came, died for our sins, and rose again for each of us. I’m so grateful for your saving grace. Help me to never forget and never take for granted that your love is for all. Help me to share your love with everyone in every circumstance. Thank you, Lord, for opening your gift of salvation for all.
- Mary Oberg
