Could we join with Paul and echo the sentiments of Romans 1:14-16?
“I am under obligation both to Greeks and to barbarians, both to the wise and the foolish.” (Rom. 1:14)
Paul was given direct orders to go to Gentiles and Jews (and even kings!) and tell them what they must do to be forgiven (Acts 9:3-9, 15-16; 26:15-18).
Christians have been given a number of direct orders as well: repentance & baptism (Acts 2:38; 10:48; Col. 1:13; et. al.); walking in the truth (2 John 1:4); even sharing the gospel (Matt. 28:19-20; Rom. 10:14-15).
“I am eager to preach the gospel to you also who are in Rome.” (Rom. 1:15)
Paul was both excited as well as ready (prepared) to share the gospel with these people. He has a message that can change lives and alter the destiny of those who hear it! He couldn’t wait to get after it! Additionally, he was prepared (cf. Phil. 1:16). Peter was prepared (1 Peter 3:15). They knew what needed to be said.
What about us? If we knew we had the greatest message in the world—the most important message any could share—would we be eager to share it? Would we feel prepared to share it?
“I am not ashamed of the gospel, for it is the power of God for salvation to everyone who believes, to the Jew first and also to the Greek.” (Rom. 1:16)
Paul lived at a time when preaching the gospel of Christ could get him killed (Acts 14:19; 2 Cor. 11:23-28). That sounds extreme to us. But—and this may hit closer to home—he also lived at a time when others would mock him for what he taught & believed. Festus once exclaimed, “Paul, you are out of your mind!” (Acts 26:24). Nevertheless, Paul was not ashamed to teach about the exclusive nature of Christianity. He was not ashamed to say there is no other way. He was not ashamed to live the moral & righteous life of the Christian.
What about us? When it comes to matters of doctrine, are we ashamed to stand with the word of God? Are we ashamed to stand out and to live like Christ even when so many others refuse?
Can we join with Paul? Let us say:
I am under obligation to obey and I am eager to share the Gospel. I am not ashamed of the Gospel.
Bart
