Romans 10:1-15
Writing by pastortim on Wednesday, 1 of July , 2009 at 10:12 am
Dear Wednesday Friend,
Yes, it has been a while since I’ve posted this blog.
In worship we will be doing a three-part series on “I’m Praying for You.” This week’s prayer is for salvation.
(Yes, I’m Trinitarian in my theology…and I do tend to think in terms of threes….)
Nevertheless, Paul seems to be addressing three questions about salvation in this passage.
1. The burning motivation, zeal, and passion for Paul are that the Israelites may be saved (10:1). This answers the “why” question.
Back in Romans 9:2-3 Paul goes as far to say that he would gladly be cursed and cut off from Christ if that meant that Israel could be saved. Wow. That thought humbles me. Paul’s love for his fellow Jews is remarkable. Talk about having a heart for the lost!!!!
2. The gracious purpose of God’s salvation is universal. “Everyone who calls upon the name of the Lord will be saved” (10:13). This speaks to the “what” question.
The Israelites are caught up in trying to earn, deserve, and/or merit their righteousness (standing) before God. Paul will have none of this.
Rather, one’s righteousness ‘by faith’ is founded entirely upon God’s freely offered grace. This offer is not exclusive but inclusive. The Gospel of Jesus Christ is universal. It is for everyone…of any time. If people call out to God in prayer, in worship, and in a general dependence upon God’s mercy, forgiveness, kindness, etc. they will experience salvation. This salvation is experience both during our lifetimes as we continually call out to God on a daily basis and at the end of the age when our salvation will be completed in glory.
3. The thoughtful plan of God’s salvation is revealed (10:14-15). This addresses the “how” question.
Paul’s logic here is impeccable.
(Christ/Holy Spirit/God) sends out heralds of His Gospel. These heralds preach, teach, explain, proclaim the Gospel. People hear God’s message…and believe. These believers call out to God and are saved.
God’s Word will not return to Him void!!! It is the message that never changes though the messengers and the methods employed therein will almost always change.
So what?
I would invite us to return to those three questions.
Why are motivated to pray for someone’s salvation?
What is the message of salvation that we are communicating?
How are we communicating this message?
As always, thank you for praying for me.
Blessings,
Tim
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Category: Romans
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1 John 4:19