Passage
Romans 1:8-17 (ESV)
A Tense Confrontation
Genesis 31:31-55
Key Verse: 31:44
A Shepherd Preaches the Gospel
Date: Feb. 22, 2015
Daily Bread
Key Verse: 1:16
First, Paul's longing for the Romans (8-13). Paul was deeply thankful to God for the faith of the believers in Rome. Paul thought about them all the time and prayed for them continuously. Out of his prayer, Paul wanted to impart a spiritual gift to them. He longed to be an encouragement to them and to reap a bountiful harvest among them just as he had among the other Gentiles.
Second, the power of God (14-17). Paul's desire was more than noble sentiment. Paul felt a deep obligation to preach the gospel. His sense of debt came not only from the grace that he had received in Christ, but also from a compassionate heart for those still suffering under the power of sin and in need of the righteousness of God. This righteousness comes to us only through faith in Jesus Christ. The gospel is the power of God that brings salvation to everyone who believes. A true, genuine shepherd heart is one that is eager to share this gospel with the world.
Prayer: Father, use us to share the gospel of salvation.
One Word: The gospel is the power of God
