Abide Together: Reflections on Romans 1

In Romans 1, Paul introduces himself not by giving a list of his accomplishments, but by identifying himself with Jesus and all that Jesus has done and is doing. He then addresses the church at Rome by expressing his desire to come to them and serve them for their benefit.  He also expresses that it is because of the Gospel that brings salvation that he desires to come to them. Paul then begins to show that all mankind deserves the just wrath of God, because of their rebellion against and rejection of God.  The thing that stands out this morning as I read this chapter is Paul’s statement about the church in Rome in verse 8, “your faith is being proclaimed throughout the whole world.” Jesus in these believers was so evident that people all over the world were talking about the church at Rome.  Their love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, gentleness, faithfulness and self-control must have been overflowing at every turn.  O Lord, by Your grace may the living out of my faith in Jesus be so evident that others would give praise to You and be talking about Your amazing grace.

– Bryan McKenzie