Tom Leonard - September 14, 2014
I'm Not Ashamed of the Gospel
I Am Not Ashamed of the Gospel Romans 1:1-17 Main Point: Through the Gospel of Jesus Christ God has given us the power of salvation and righteousness through faith. Paul’s Calling – called by God to be an apostle of this Gospel. verses 1&5 Paul was ‘called’ (kaleo) = invited/appointed – used as ‘one invited to a banquet’ – a specific invitation. ‘Apostle’= ambassador, one sent with a commission – to preach the Gospel. We are ‘called’ = called to belong to Jesus (verse 6), and called to the obedience that comes from faith in Jesus Christ. (verse 5) 2. Paul’s Purpose – Paul plans to visit them in order to encourage, impart and preach the Gospel to them, and invite them to partner with him in his desire to preach the Gospel in Spain. (verses 9-15 > Chp 15:23-24) 3. Paul’s Preaching – Paul declares he is not ashamed of the Gospel of Jesus Christ, for it is the power of God for salvation, and a righteousness that comes through faith in Jesus Christ, God’s Son. (verses 3-4; 16-17) Matthew 24:14; Mark 16:15-16 ‘Power of Salvation’ (sodzo) = ‘saved fully, wholly’ – saved from the penalty of sin, the power of sin, and ultimately the presence of sin. ‘Righteous’ (dikaios) = being right with, acceptable to God – in relationship and moral character. Faith’ (pistis) = conviction as true, believing so that I am convinced and rely upon. Habakkuk 2:4 ‘… the righteous will live by his faith.’
Scripture References: Romans 1:1-17, Romans 15:23-24, Matthew 24:14, Mark 16:15-16, Galatians 1:11-17
