Essentials

Romans 16:21-27

Tendency of many in our world seems to be this: focus on what is most easily observed and take things that are essential for granted. Forget about nutritional value of sandwich, was your footlong cut in half? If not, get angry and throw it at counter help, get arrested for battery (01/11/24). Plaster newsfeeds with rumors and speculation but don’t bother with issues like moral character. Examples abound, and encounter them often, personally, in real life.

Last week, related how one expert waxed eloquent about use of technology and its use in shaping how churches interact with people. In his view, survival of a church depends on its image. But according to God’s word the Bible, is that really where the focus of our attention should be? Particularly with regard to Christ’s kingdom, his church, what things does Bible teach are truly essential? How far can we go / should we go to tailor communication of truth to preferences of audience?

Certainly thank the Lord for meeting places but whether here or heaven, other things have greater significance. Is about much more than nickels and noses, things easy to quantify. There are elements worshiping church should be sure are present and appreciated. As has done already, Paul again draws attention to people but mostly focus is on God (no surprise) and he closes letter with stirring benediction of praise.

A. worshiping people are essential  v.21-23

people of all kinds

Timothy, mixed heritage – mother a Jewess “who believed but” father Gentile – apparently influenced by mother and grandmother – how many families do you know like that?

kinsmen/countrymen – perhaps but not necessarily relatives of Paul, certainly shared beliefs and spiritual family connection w/Paul

Gentiles – from polytheistic background, little or no Bible knowledge, “Temple to Unknown God”, had come to faith, growing percentage of today’s church

from all places

greater Corinth, Rome, all those who read the letter – all greetings to and all greetings from part of body of believers, the church

J John said to woman on airplane he was part of global enterprise – any local assembly component part of whole, spanning globe

sense of community at its core: all are “in the Lord” – each week pray for UPG and brothers/sisters, neighbors who share Gospel so that worshiping community will grow

doing all sorts of things

coworker – Timothy one of several Paul thought of that way, working together for sake of Gospel (common cause), and this:

1 Cor. 3:9  “For we are God’s fellow workers; you are God’s field, you are God’s building.” – Priscilla & Aquila; Philemon; plus Timothy and Titus called fellow laborers

generous host – Gaius, gift of hospitality and probably material resources – prophet’s chamber for Paul, others, used liberally, perhaps even house church

government official – Erastus in position of prominence/responsibility, interacting with many citizens, ideal position for witness

personal secretary – Tertius, third, a slave (?) and trusted helper for Paul, performing task difficult or nearly impossible for Paul

just folks – others who had only one distinguishing mark: loved Jesus and his people – no less important, their prayerful encouragement as necessary as other roles

B. God’s grace is essential  v.24

skip in the record

different versions handle differently – only here, only v.20, both, depends on which early copy of letter where is placed if at all

no way to know for sure – simply unable to figure out from available sources which matches one with Tertius’ handwriting

grace a big deal for Paul – do know this, used in his letters 100+ times, he believed was essential for his life and for others

1 Cor. 15:10 “But by the grace of God I am what I am, and His grace toward me was not in vain; but I labored more abundantly than they all, yet not I, but the grace of God which was with me.”

forever essential

element of God’s character – not only spoken of by others, God said so himself: Ex. 34:6 And the LORD passed before him and proclaimed, “The LORD, the LORD God, merciful and gracious, longsuffering, and abounding in goodness and truth,”

he never changes – since was his character 3500 years ago, is now and always will be gracious… for which we are truly thankful

we never stop needing – even when perfect, will only be perfect as far as we can go – what God deserves will go way beyond that

a good prayer

it pleases God – since is what we all need and shouldn’t take for granted, is good to pray for ourselves and others we know

a guaranteed “yes” – even though God knows need, often waits for his kids to ask, then provide what is most needful

C. praise is essential  v.25-27

a natural response

not spectator event – whether worship or some other churchy thing, is expected everyone will participate by using their gift(s)

child’s response to good and glorious Father – when we recognize just how good and how glorious he really is, what he has accomplished by power of Gospel, is natural to give him praise

not hindered as OT saints were, have “the rest of the story” – hearing the truth over again establishes / strengthens us

needs no coercion – as you see / hear / think about God’s truth, then open your mouth… what comes out? spontaneous praise?

centers on the Gospel

both message and person – the “gospel and the preaching of Jesus Christ” inseparable – one w/o the other has no power

without person, message is empty and empty message no better than what Satan says – may make you feel good but…

cannot be separated from revelation either – without Bible are totally in dark about Gospel and how we should respond to it

practice now for later

grace is never-ending, so is praise – several descriptions in Revelation, not only people praising God, so is all his creation

will praise his glory best when we experience it – who better to praise God than his Son? and…

“Beloved, now we are children of God; and it has not yet been revealed what we shall be, but we know that when He is revealed, we shall be like Him, for we shall see Him as He is.” (1 John 3:2)

must do best we can now to praise him, look forward to then when will be able to praise him more fully and perfectly

This the message we are to take to all nations. Can be certain of this: when we do our best depending on grace of Lord Jesus to obey him and work with him, he will bless our labors for him. We may not see results, love it when we do, thank and praise God when we do. Yet should be confident when we declare God’s truth, he will use it to bring about his eternal purpose.

Don’t need to wait until next life to be worshiping people dependent on God’s grace. Can begin now and encourage others to do same. Singing alone in shower may give some pleasure… but nothing like praising the Lord in presence of other like-minded brothers and sisters.

 

Watch Your Step

Romans 16:17-20 

AI Is Creating A Post-Truth World – Forbes; Fragmented truth: How AI is distorting and challenging our reality – VentureBeat news; Artificial intelligence, deepfakes, and the uncertain future of truth – Brookings Institute; More than a third of state agencies are using AI. Texas is beginning to examine its potential impact – Texas Tribune

“A quarter of the denomination’s [UMC] churches have left.” “forty million people who used to attend church at least once a month now going less than once a year”.

Person may claim to be follower of one religion or another or even no religion at all. But… decided absence of correspondence between what individual says they believe and basic tenets of religion they identify with. Really is often DIY religion – cherry-pick from buffet of beliefs what is most palatable, leave rest behind. Is where the church itself is rapidly headed.

We use digital technology here at WRBC but… listen carefully to article from last week: “In an era where the stable church is endangered, embracing digital transformation is crucial. Churches need to finally take digital seriously and invest in digital infrastructure, from engaging websites to interactive social media strategies. This digital shift isn’t just a survival tactic; it has to be central. Foundational. Start digitally first, not an add-on.” Kenny Jahng

What has happened? Large segments of Christian church regardless of what they might claim have at least begun to drift away from what should be central, foundational. For some may be “digital shift”; for others,”must tailor their digital strategies to engage Millennials effectively. This includes not only the platforms they use but also the content they share.” Article of almost 1450 words, “church/churches” 58x, zero references to God or his Word. (churchtechtoday.com)

“Christianity stands or falls on its central truth claims.  Without the knowledge of the full deity and humanity of Christ, there is no Gospel and no salvation of sinners.” Al Mohler, Pres. SBTS

Psalm 119:160 “The entirety of Your word is truth, And every one of Your righteous judgments endures forever.”  John 17:17 “Sanctify them by Your truth. Your word is truth.” John 14:6 Jesus said to him, “I am the way, the truth, and the life. No one comes to the Father except through Me.” John 8:32 “And you shall know the truth, and the truth shall make you free.”

Truth is knowable, there are absolutes, truth is accessible to anyone. If we are to do as instructed here, must know truth, where is found – in God and his Word. Must not lose grip on truth, must proclaim truth if we are to change people’s lives as they hear Gospel and are enabled by God’s grace to embrace it.

A. be careful  v.17-18

pay attention

challenges to/attacks on truth often cloaked in deception – speaker often unaware of deception, taken in by Satan/his lies

divisions start small and grow – splitting wood w/hammer and wedge – several blows to start crack, then some holdouts at end

need to be like caution at RR crossing – stop, look, listen – attentive to more than immediate, also what it will eventually lead to

not limited to what happens in church, are countless sources of influence that affect individuals/groups and content of belief

compare

some sources of influence very trustworthy, others not so much – only one absolutely reliable source of truth, never-changing God

God’s truth expressed in his Word must be uncompromised standard, that which everything else must agree with

have to know truth in order to know when something needs verifying, God’s truth must be what determines our worldview

avoid

those who knowingly promote deception have wrong motives and a wrong master – iow, wrong distorted worldview

even true things they say are colored by their agenda – whatever causes division among true believers must be avoided

will damage cause of Christ, proclamation of the Gospel, fidelity to truth – has been problem for God’s people since the Garden

B. be wise  v.19

stay true

everyone knows about obedience / faithfulness – you have Christ-honoring reputation, persevere / stay the course, don’t mess up

hard reputation to maintain under best conditions – takes hard work, close attention, constant dependence on God for strength

noticed by others, encourages them to stay true, brings them joy to know Christ’s church prospers… growing in Christ-likeness

causes rejoicing in heaven when sinners come to faith in Christ (Luk 15:7), when saints remain faithful in obedience to him

stay fresh

stale bread may be good for croutons & french toast, we prefer fresh for most things – we can become hardened / crusty in thinking and processing, less able to recognize changes

to see quickly when movement away from truth, must keep God’s truth fresh in mind and thought – have heard 100x, need it again… and again

time reading / meditating on Word – being instructed by faithful reliable teachers – regular encouragement from fellowship w/believers who are like-minded

stay in the middle

guard rails aren’t there to play bumper cars with – have reflectors to warn of danger – ought to stay in middle of truth

much evil, error in world, don’t need to know all details – John, NCT, study, don’t just stay in sight of shore, get feet on ground regularly… for a while… then more study

whatever we feed minds with will influence it – never leaves us neutral, either creates distance or greater love/desire for truth

C. be victorious  v.20

God’s part

Satan doom is sure, has not been finally defeated – his power severely limited but… still has great power, can do much damage

we can “stand against the wiles of the devil” (Eph 6:11) when use belt of truth, breastplate of righteousness, gospel feet, shield of faith, helmet of salvation and… sword of Spirit

see how much of that “equipment” comes from God… all of it… that he uses to not only limit Satan but take territory from him

no matter how it looks, one day Satan will be thoroughly defeated, crushed, sent to his eternal destiny… as an inmate, not warden

your part

yes, says “the God of peace will crush Satan under your feet” but we’re not to be mannequins / dummies, rather active soldiers

God expects us to be doing our part, “God’s fellow workers” (1 Cor. 3:9) at same time as he is working through / with us

is combination Satan is powerless to hinder, he must give way as God’s truth crushes his deception, opens blind eyes

together

no secret, not hard to understand our need for grace Christ bestows in order to do our part – quickly get into trouble on our own

Paul’s prayer not for “y’all” but “all y’all”, plural – not only need God’s help, must also have one another so together we stand

must be working together, all of us including God to stay true to doctrine we have been taught from God’s word the Bible and keep declaring his truth

Is an exclusive message and a true one: “Nor is there salvation in any other, for there is no other name under heaven given among men by which we must be saved.” (Acts 4:12) “For there is one God and one Mediator between God and men, the Man Christ Jesus, who gave Himself a ransom for all.” (1 Tim 2:5)

Often unpopular and not well received yet is absolute unchanging Gospel truth. Must never forget it, be like John Newton: “Although my memory’s fading, I remember two things very clearly: I am a great sinner and Christ is a great Savior.” And remember this: when we stay true to this doctrine and declare it courageously, God will be with us, he will strengthen us and he will lead us “in the paths of righteousness for his name’s sake”. (Psa 23:3)

 

Ministry in the Family

Romans 16:3-16 

“A public recognition of those Christians in Rome whom Paul already knows would encourage them to think favorably of him… The list of names in this section does not make very interesting reading for most students of Romans. But for those few who are especially interested in the socioeconomic composition of the early church, it is a gold mine.” NICONT

24 identified by name, only know connection with certainty for two, Priscilla and Aquila. Much speculation about who the rest perhaps were but how Paul knew them well enough to call by name given no consideration. Yet… fact remains each had significance to Paul. Since he wrote under prompting of Holy Spirit, were important to Holy Spirit too and not just as faceless numbers associated with group.

Disturbing trend at least in this part of world following lockdown foolishness – increasing emphasis on use of technology in Gospel ministry. Encouraging church leaders to up their game by using social media, artificial intelligence, other tools to more effectively engage with people. Not only in addition to face-to-face interaction but in place of it. In the process, Gospel ministry becomes a product delivered electronically while personal relationships diminish or even disappear. Not stated… but is really about quantity rather than quality.

Much different scenario pictured for us in NT when people across socio-economic spectrum expended much time and labor to invest in one another. Nothing official or bureaucratic about it, no independent agencies involved, simply local church families paying attention to their own needs and needs of world around them. True, did not have devices with global reach as we do… yet Gospel traveled from Middle East to most of known world in less than 50 years. Purpose of this letter to equip and encourage believers in Rome to be co-laborers with Paul in advancing Christ’s church. Even though Paul had big vision, did not lose sight of individuals, their importance to him and his affection for them. As far as he was concerned, were family.

A. members of the family

men and women

much more than simple list of names – several places in Bible, begats, lists of names/numbers, mean little to us, lots to God

Paul included personal details – sometimes husband first, women mentioned singly, sisters (maybe twins), wife and husband, more than name-dropping to get attention

reasonable to think most if not all known to those who would hear letter read in church even if all didn’t attend together

multicultural

speaks of some as countrymen – either they or ancestors traveled to Rome b/c of persecution or business, not uncommon

some by name either Gentile by birth or owned by Gentile master and given different name – Jew wouldn’t have named their son for Greek god Mercury (Hermes)

church in Rome similar demographic profile as city itself – encouraging when church family is “from the  neighborhood”

“in the Lord”

repeated identifier (7x) reminding of essential common ground, what they all shared and what it meant – all family

is this that makes saints, sisters, brothers… reason why would have great affection for one another, cause to defend/support

says much about character of life when have reputation like that, also helps to explain some of other descriptive terms

B. activity of the family

fellow workers

to be considered fellow worker with Paul, to be well-known to the apostles… must be actively / productively involved in Gospel work

taking place alongside primary vocation, much like those driven out of Jerusalem by persecution years before: Acts 8:1, 3-4 

“At that time a great persecution arose against the church which was at Jerusalem; and they were all scattered throughout the regions of Judea and Samaria, except the apostles… As for Saul, he made havoc of the church, entering every house, and dragging off men and women, committing them to prison. Therefore those who were scattered went everywhere preaching the word [evangelizing].”

early Christians skilled at multi-tasking, working and carrying on conversation, purposely directing discussion to spiritual principles

labored much

were not going through life on autopilot with little thought for what comes next – was hard work, breaking a sweat for Gospel

ones Paul sends greetings to would fall into bed at end of day exhausted from effort put into helping Christ’s kingdom grow

labor not limited to apostles, recognized teachers/leaders in the church – many among family engaged and getting a reputation

risked their own necks

Paul gave notice to many but one couple stand out from rest – Priscilla and Aquila – traveling companions, Aquila also tentmaker

Aquila born in northern Turkey, driven from Rome with wife Priscilla, now back in Rome and actively involved in church there

not given detail, loved Gospel and Paul enough to risk their lives to help save Paul from harm, caused churches in that area to be greatly thankful Paul could continue ministry

C. gathering of the family

in their house

would be many years before churches had dedicated meeting space – meeting in large room or central atrium of private home

Priscilla & Aquila hosted one, were also churches mentioned v.14 & 15, perhaps also at homes of Aristobulus and Narcissus

as many as five different groups of perhaps 70 to 80 people meeting for worship each Sunday, spread out across city of Rome

church growth in that period not kind to get more into Coliseum but more into the kingdom… and… in way hard to avoid

who are with them

not gathering in secret, trying to fly under radar – consider Priscilla & Aquila, Andronicus & Junia, putting lives at risk for Christ

greetings to “those who are of the household of” – not the householder himself but those in his family and/or employ (slaves)

saw no good reason to go to church elsewhere, deprive entire household of that influence – don’t know who is listening, principle applies to all manner of settings

also likely regular preacher/teacher was one from the household – less “formal” but at same time more vibrant than much now

show affection (12:10)

kiss of greeting common in some cultures, hug or handshake in others – exact form less important than what is communicated

think for moment what we say with a handshake – lot of variables influence it, wide variety in shades of meaning attached

Paul expressed affection repeatedly here, once in understated way v.13 – greeting to Rufus’ mother who was like a mother to Paul

certainly application of his own prior exhortation to “Be kindly affectionate to one another with brotherly love”, also Peter’s instruction to “love one another fervently” (1 Pet. 1.22)

expected of those who are in God’s family, not possible among casual acquaintances or simply attending same events

Many friends and neighbors invest much time and treasure in things only for this world, maybe only for this life. Followers of Christ must have larger vision than that. Instead of building castles and portfolios, build up one another. Instead of advancing political causes, advance Christ’s kingdom. Instead of reaching new fitness goal, reach another friend or family member or people group with the Gospel. Everything indicates 24 hours from now we’ll be in a new year, will have turned calendar page, let’s make it one that counts for Christ.

 

Women in the Early Church

Romans 16:1-2  

Opinion people have about Apostle Paul cover range from one of God’s greatest gifts to Christian church all the way to patriarchal misogynistic homophobe who wrote only six or seven letters of thirteen attributed to him (14 counting Hebrews). Many see what they want in epistles, do whatever seems expedient to rationalize/redefine to make it fit and say what they think it should. God expects us to let his Word say what it says, understand as was meant to best of ability, treat as it is… the authoritative word of God. Is true regardless of penman, OT and NT alike. If not happy with what it says, problem is with us and not the Bible.

Not possible to read this text, other similar, conclude Paul didn’t like women. Even more difficult to believe he failed to recognize importance and value of women in the church. Beginning with Matthew 1, substantial place given to women in all NT. Does not only Paul but God himself disservice to relegate what Bible says about controversial themes to dustbin of history, think somehow humanity has outgrown such antiquated ideas. Don’t have to look hard to see much evidence is not working very well.

A. commendation  v.1a

common first-century practice

didn’t have relatively easy way to check someone’s credentials like today – distance / means of travel one kind of difficulty

were scam artists in 1st as well as 21st century, similar methods and purposes – gain confidence, then take advantage of gullible

letter of commendation useful along the way from Cenchrea (eastern harbor of Corinth) to Rome, would add legitimacy to travel

Paul’s reputation

put his own name on the line, not only with believers in Rome, also all other churches/places where had recognized influence

if Phoebe brought dishonor on Paul, his entire ministry in jeopardy when word got around – not something he would treat lightly

Paul’s regard

judging by name and associations with it (Gk mythology), almost certainly Gentile greatly respected / appreciated by apostle

“our sister” – word rarely used by Paul, masculine form to mean both genders much more frequent, also indicating affection

depth of feeling in description of Phoebe, not surprising given her character and role in local church – whole sermon on “servant of the church” and all it signifies

B. character  v.1b, 2b

servant of the church

will focus on this about her: clearly Phoebe was voluntarily “others-minded” – fitting given frequent emphasis on one another

effective servant one who observes and acts – paying attention to others, recognizing where need exists, acting to meet it

not acting autonomously, was serving others by serving the church – doing what was best for individual in setting of group

helper of many

had access to financial means – a patron / benefactor of many and also Paul – perhaps helping him meet ministry expenses so less dependent on tentmaking

since immediately follows what sounds like business trip to Rome, was skilled in both acquiring and using material resources wisely

no indication Paul was her financial counselor, suggesting how she could best use her funds – had traits common to Prov. 31 woman

C. confidence  v.2a

in Phoebe

no idea if Paul kept copy of his letter, probably not, entrusted only copy to Phoebe fully expecting it to reach intended recipients in Rome

also believed she was and would remain deserving of his commendation, that her conduct would reflect well on her home church

business dealings outside church sphere would be good testimony for believers in Rome and be profitable, making trip worthwhile

in the Roman believers

Paul believed commendation enough to prompt Roman church to welcome Phoebe as a believer, show proper hospitality

considering big picture, one anothering in one part of church benefits entire body of Christ, is really form of service to Christ

is task of local church family to act locally while at same time thinking globally, seeing as part of whole and building Christ’s kingdom

D. counterparts

Lydia  (Acts 16:40)

easy to think about heroes of the faith esp. as identified in Heb. 11 and elsewhere, not as quick to honor heroines of faith

was Paul remembering experience with Silas in Philippi? Phoebe not first to be of great service to believers in Christ’s church

Lydia like Phoebe displayed courage carrying out tasks assumed – welcoming Paul and Silas, hosting fledgling church in her home

Priscilla  (Romans 16:3)

another one like Phoebe and Priscilla, traveled many miles with husband Aquila, developed great friendship with apostle

learned much sound doctrine under Paul’s teaching during 18 months in Corinth, by their use of it had learned for more than personal benefit (Acts 18)

recognized things lacking in Apollos’ understanding, together took Apollos aside and helped him grow in his own knowledge, enabling him to be more effective evangelist/teacher

Mary  (Luke 1:28, 42) highly favored, blessed

back further in history, arrive at Mary – truly remarkable teenager with understanding of God’s Word that puts adults to shame

know little about Mary but know this: an old saying “the hand that rocks the cradle rules the world” – poetic but still much truth, mother is profound influence and shaper of child’s character

Jesus’ first experiences at time when he and parents were refugees in Egypt, living on what wise men provided plus any Joseph could earn using his skills

no friends, no permanent home, young first-time mother responsible for raising son in foreign country under tough circumstances

know how Jesus turned out, his way of thinking about others – must have come in part from parents, particularly his mother

These four ladies willingly used by God to accomplish great things in early church. We benefit from their contribution to this day – have this very letter in part b/c of Phoebe. Have a clearer understanding of the Gospel in part b/c of Lydia and Priscilla. And have a Savior b/c of Mary. Shameful treatment of her son didn’t destroy her faith:

Acts 1:13-14 And when they had entered, they went up into the upper room where they were staying: Peter, James, John, and Andrew; Philip and Thomas; Bartholomew and Matthew; James the son of Alphaeus and Simon the Zealot; and Judas the son of James. These all continued with one accord in prayer and supplication, with the women and Mary the mother of Jesus, and with His brothers.

Each one of these women faithfully did what God called them to do to best of their ability, setting example we can follow by God’s grace.

The child whose birth we celebrate was Son of God and son of Mary. A mystery no human can ever fully comprehend but absolutely necessary to God’s purpose in rescuing lost sinners. Can respond in two ways – disregard the mystery as irrelevant and unimportant, a nice story maybe but of little use. Or… recognize the mystery of the child in the manger as something only God could do, something God did do, and that God deserves our love and our worship. This child not a myth, he is the God-Man, our Lord and Savior coming again to gather his people to himself. Set everything to rights. Rule over what is rightfully his forever.

 

Call to Prayer

Romans 15:30-33 

God’s Word richly sprinkled with examples and exhortations about prayer from Genesis to Revelation. Without question we are to be people of prayer for ourselves and others. John Bunyan knew what it was like to cope without most comforts of life, enough to more than barely meet basic needs. Made point more than once through adventures of Christiana, Mercy and boys how vital prayer is, how difficult circumstances can be when we neglect it. Paul knew how important prayer was for him to be effective in ministry, didn’t assume others would pray for him w/o being reminded of his needs.

Missionaries we support understand importance of prayer. Regular part of letters / emails include specific prayer points, both thanking and asking. Thanking God for needs met, requests answered. Asking for God to work in particular ways in their area of ministry. Prayer acknowledges dependence on God to do what only he is able to do, how true ministry always has that part. To accomplish all God is ready to do through us, he must do it and we must ask him. If we fail to ask and he holds back from doing his part, all we accomplish will be for this life only. We all must be doing all we can for eternity, not just here and now.

Should resist temptation to skim to find out how story ends. This short paragraph just as important as any other in letter. Deserves our attention, effort to understand, then faithful application where it fits in our own lives. More diligent we are to uphold one another in prayer, more will see work God is doing as Christ’s kingdom grows to blanket all the earth. Not only have good teaching about prayer, Paul skillfully weaves together love, joy and peace in his passionate appeal to believers in church at Rome.

A. method  v.30a

because of an urgent appeal

same expression as used in 12:1 – urge, implore, appeal, plead – way of asking shows how important it is for fellow believers to do as Paul desires

not selfish desire, has good of Gentile donors, Jewish recipients, Roman co-laborers in view… significant part of early church

can also be understood (παρακαλω) as request for believers in Rome to come along side Paul, actively participate in his ministry

through the Lord Jesus Christ

common bond among all the above because of union with Lord Jesus – are all laboring together for sake of Gospel, one another

get older, world tends to shrink; same can happen in the church, way of thinking about the church/Christian life can shrink

People often say to me, they say, “Jay John, you know, what do you do?” It’s always very difficult to know what to say because if I say I’m a Reverend, which I am, that conjures up certain images in people’s minds as to what I might be. So I like to be a little bit creative in telling people what I do.

I sat next to this lady on an airplane at Heathrow Airport and I said “hello”. She said “hello”. And I said “where are you going” and she said “I’m going to Singapore”. Then she said to me “where are you going?” I said “I’m going to Australia”. I said “what do you do?” So she told me.

Then she said “what do you do” and I said “Well, I work for a global enterprise.” She said “do you?” I said “yes, I do”. I said “we’ve got outlets in nearly every country of the world.” She said “have you?” I said “yes, we have”. I said “we’ve got hospitals and hospices and homeless shelters.” I said “we do marriage work. We’ve got orphanages. We’ve got feeding programs. Educational programs.” I said “we do all sorts of justice and reconciliation things.” I said “basically we look after people from birth to death. And we deal in the area of behavioral alteration.”

She went “WOW.” And it was so loud, her wow, loads of people turned round and looked at us. She said “what’s it called?” I said “it’s called the church.” And that’s it, really, isn’t it? If we are a follower of Jesus, then we are part of a global enterprise. But not only is it global, it’s intergalactic because it includes everyone that’s gone before us.  (https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=L6TGxKvSqH8)

we are all working on the same building, church of Christ, just focused on different parts, co-laborers in the Gospel w/one another

and the love of the Spirit

yet another reference to ministry each person of Godhead in prayer, God in his fullness actively engaged in answering prayer

certainly encouraging, heart-warming to think about laboring together as J John described – remember this: “For we are God’s fellow workers” (1 Cor 3:9)

B. request  v.30b

strive

6-syllable customized word – only occurs here in NT, “agonize together with me” – no way this can be considered light duty work

concentrated focused attention on task, commitment to not be distracted or lose focus, accompanied by strong emotion

together

strong encouragement to think of self as coworker – as helpful/essential to achieving goal as the one with literal hands-on

most important coworker is God himself – God could have planned it differently, included us in plan by his own choice / purpose

in prayer

if we aren’t directly involved, getting hands dirty, our part can be working in prayer – same true for others, will have their turn

don’t always have prayer list, can still pray for God to show himself mighty through their work, bringing many to faith in Christ

C. purpose  v.31-32

deliverance

Paul knew from time pre-conversion plus later experience what risks minister of the Gospel was facing in public ministry

certainly not afraid of suffering or death, definitely did not want to be prevented from completing task he believed was given

acceptable ministry

knew was possibility assistance from church in Macedonia and Achaia would be rejected by church in Jerusalem – thing about Gentiles, how strongly former traditions were held

might also be reflection on Paul, hindering his ability to give pastoral encouragement to believers experiencing great hardship

would only be by God’s working in hearts of believers and unbelievers that both objectives would be met – needed unwavering prayer to be confident of good outcome

joyful refreshing fellowship

if both prayers answered favorably along with suitable travel arrangements, would bring and receive joy on arrival in Rome

is how God has designed to be – serving others gives joy to both giver and receiver, item in our thanks list when God provides

another 6-syllable customized word – only occurs here in NT – rest or refresh spirits together, only happens when face-to-face

D. benediction    v.33

common desire

this peace not simply end of fighting – didn’t use Hebrew word but had shalom in mind, big word and big idea, best embodied in Prince of Peace… one who brings end to hostility with God, end of anxiety and stress

follows love and joy in fruits of Spirit and three are nearly inseparable – naturally go together for believer, can do so for unbeliever

source: Numbers 6:24-26 

“The LORD bless you and keep you; The LORD make His face shine upon you, And be gracious to you; The LORD lift up His countenance upon you, And give you peace.”

all included in Paul’s mind and his prayer for believers in Rome – as surely as he wanted to be in their minds and prayers, they were in his along with brothers / sisters in places he had been

powerful summary

when consider all blessings available to follower of Jesus, should be experiencing true / lasting peace and joy, not just surviving

points unequivocally to not only source of peace for world, just as surely the only one who can and does give real joy

Don’t have to look hard to see absence of joy in many faces – certainly not a lot reported in media to give thinking people joy. We can be instrumental in others receiving gift of eternal life and joy that accompanies it as we labor together in prayer to build the intergalactic enterprise we call the church.

 

Expect Great Things; Attempt Great Things

Romans 15:22-29  

Hard for us at time when communication around world is instantaneous, travel not far behind, to grasp how life was in first century. To exchange several messages in matter of minutes routine for us, travel several thousand miles between breakfast and supper not a problem. In NT time, weeks and months more common measure of time for people and mail to make journey. And, highly dependent on weather – to travel length of Mediterranean could require three months, not just handful of hours.

Then there was what people believed lay beyond Strait of Gibraltar, between there and end of world. Noah built boat fit for ocean blue, not so much in Paul’s day. Only very bravest or most foolish would venture out into wild unknown of Atlantic Ocean. Most of those who did rarely if ever intentionally went beyond sight of land. Wasn’t until 10 years after Jesus’ return to heaven that Britannia (not including Scotland and Ireland) became part of Roman Empire. Most of Europe and Asia populated by barbarians, feared by average person, full extent of Africa basically unknown.

Perhaps others of apostles had passion for Christ’s kingdom to fill known world and unknown world beyond, Paul the one we know about from God’s Word. Others have followed, continue to do so today. One who followed: William Carey. Speaking to group of pastors May 30,1792 – Expect great things from God, attempt great things for God. Is not unreasonable – God has done great things in the past, promised great things in future, why should his people hold back? Why not trusting him, depending fully on him, attempt great things? And when we do, don’t be surprised when God does greater things than we imagine!

Don’t think Paul some kind of Energizer bunny, pressing on without losing steam or courage, beating his drum for Jesus everywhere he went. More than once needed encouragement from God to continue in face of opposition:

Acts 18:9-10 Now the Lord spoke to Paul in the night by a vision, “Do not be afraid, but speak, and do not keep silent; “for I am with you, and no one will attack you to hurt you; for I have many people in this city.”

Yet he gave all he had and trusted God to do great things with the Gospel – Rom 1:16 “For I am not ashamed of the gospel of Christ, for it is the power of God to salvation for everyone who believes, for the Jew first and also for the Greek.” Prior to that in v.5, “Through Him we have received grace and apostleship for obedience to the faith among all nations for His name” Paul believed was doing his part to carry the Gospel to all the nations, why he selected population centers for his ministry efforts, expecting Gospel to radiate outward from them.

A. work to do first but…  v.22-24

ripples on a pond

a year at Antioch – time of relationship-building, preparation for Paul and Barnabas for Gospel work, firming up support base

first missionary journey – island of Cyprus, significant cities in southern Turkey, places where Jewish communities were already

second missionary journey – much greater distances, more challenging travel, significant change of plans forced by God

intended to turn east and return through northern Turkey back to Antioch, give report to sending church and supporters

to Macedonia

tried to turn right but Holy Spirit blocked road, forced to turn left… toward Europe – Holy Spirit’s action plus vision changed everything

Paul’s in-person work essentially done in Asia – further Gospel advance done by others spreading out from established churches

not given reason for God’s choice of Paul, was clearly God’s purpose for him to be one carrying Gospel in that direction – as God equipped him, would be one best suited to task

and the end of the world

at some point between vision of Macedonian man and writing to church in Rome, had an “aha” moment – maybe heard about Roman expansion into Britannia, his own vision changed

instead of Galatia being goal, Spain took precedence – may already have known how church in Asia (Turkey) reaching out

end of the world had moved, further away yet accessible – Paul torn between needs in immediate area, those of church in Jerusalem, and where Gospel not preached

v.20 not a pride thing, already planted church didn’t need Paul the same way as people in Spain and beyond

awareness of need for Gospel to spread and desire to help it almost too much for him – had seen God do great things many times, expected he would continue, determined to do his part as God worked through him

B. to Jerusalem  v.25-27

aid to the poor

at quick glance, might seem out of place – this a letter written by apostle commissioned to carry Gospel and here carrying money

makes big deal about it, something he must do next, calls it serving, ministering to fellow believers in need of assistance

really cross-cultural ministry, started with Gentile Christians from Macedonia and Greece helping Jewish Christians in Jerusalem

mutual sharing

not only what people did in that part of world, is what God’s people should do… regardless of other considerations… share

really the essence of fellowship, necessary part of one-anothering, whether we hold in hand or mind or heart it came from God

both material and spiritual

don’t minimize importance of material help Paul was taking, don’t stop there either – his heart full of what God was doing

both kinds of encouragement important to Christians facing hostility from countrymen alongside great poverty – would get worse before better post-70 AD

only right since Gentiles shared in spiritual blessings they should allow Jewish believers to share in material blessings

C. then Rome and Spain  v.28-29

could not be delegated

anyone trustworthy could deliver the money, only the apostle could carry first-hand greetings / fellowship / encouragement

personal relationship important not only to Paul, are what result in unity / proper functioning of body of believers

decidedly true when being treated harshly by those who should be friends – worshiped same God, had same ancestors but…

blessing for the hungry in Jerusalem

about much more than “duty” for Paul, he genuinely wanted to be as big a blessing as he could to fellow believers

desire expressed in 1:11 “For I long to see you, that I may impart to you some spiritual gift” not limited to saints in Rome

confident he would receive blessing from knowing how Gospel making progress around Jerusalem, how saints were growing

and in Rome and beyond

was attentive to benevolent ministry details but didn’t overlook/forget intention to take Gospel to Spain – Rome only refueling stop

would be certain to share blessings from Jewish brothers and sisters as he passed thru Rome, carry all on to final destination

Remember passage Paul quoted from OT back in 10:15 – “how shall they preach unless they are sent? As it is written: “How beautiful are the feet of those who preach the gospel of peace, Who bring glad tidings of good things!” Paul all about Gospel – “separated to the Gospel” (1:1); “ready to preach the Gospel” (1:15); “not ashamed of the Gospel” (1:16); “ministering the Gospel” (15:16); “made it my aim to preach the Gospel” (15:20).

10:15 “those who preach the Gospel”, those who “evangelize” sharing a message of peace, the most important peace of all… how to be at peace with God. Not only is possible, is a fail-safe result of faith in Christ as Savior. Was vision of that message bringing peace in hearts of men, women, boys, girls all over world that captivated Paul, should captivate and motivate us beginning right where we are and wherever God calls us to go from here. Is message that has been proclaimed for generations yet more people today than ever before have not heard it or responded to it in faith. Those men of old who heard angels, saw star, worshiped the Lord Jesus didn’t keep good news to themselves, we must do our part to let everyone know a child has been born, a son has been given, one who is called Prince of Peace. Let’s be sure we “expect great things from God, attempt great things for God.”

 

The Apostle’s Heart

Romans 15:14-21 

Apostle Paul didn’t speak of himself as gifted orator / public speaker (1 Cor 2:4) but certainly not lacking re: persuasive letter writing. At same time took little personal credit for writing ability and whatever it might accomplish. Is entirely possible pen more able than lips to keep up with thoughts tumbling over one another. This portion of letter no exception as he lays bare his ministry heart – far more communicated here than philosophy of evangelism or church planting. Paul’s passion for God and others significant ingredient contributing to rapid growth of 1^st century church.

Everything in letter up to this point not academic exercise for Paul – represented basic framework of all his ministry. Majority of his time as follower of Christ devoted to cross-cultural evangelism and discipleship, knew these principles necessary and helpful for believers in Rome to have effective ministry also. Not important who is traveling – Paul traveled from Jerusalem to Serbia / Bosnia region evangelizing and establishing churches along the way. Believers in Rome could encounter travelers from opposite end of Mediterranean and more in own city. Contents of letter useful in either situation.

Regardless of particular kind of ministry God has called you to, is part for you to play in adding disciples to Christ’s kingdom. Having heart like Paul did an excellent help to be useful to Lord Jesus, carrying on work he began 2000 years ago. Beauty is we are surrounded by people of all kinds w/o genuine hope – are hoping in something totally unable to deliver what they need most. Wise man said number of years ago – “the heart of the matter is that it is a matter of the heart”. (Henry Krabbendam) True for everyone w/o exception, we know one who changes hearts and gives hope. Same one who gives peace and joy and love that begins in renewed heart and radiates outward through thought, word, deed.

A. a heart for others  v.14-16

a good foundation

we all know this – like Jesus, must be others-minded, esp. since to love means to do what is best for other person ahead of self

Paul showed by recognizing what about them was commendable – great encouragement for someone further down road to see and encourage

often have to intentionally look for what is commendable, too easy to see problems / weaknesses and overlook strengths

room for growth

Paul believed saints in Rome were teachable, had good hearts of their own – felt freedom to write plainly, challenging them

didn’t believe work of ministry done when had prayed “sinner’s prayer” – reaching destiny of Christ-likeness just as important

more like Christ they became, more effective in Gospel ministry including evangelizing and discipling other believers

by God’s grace and for his glory

only way both for Paul and readers from whatever century that people would hear Gospel, receive / embrace it

Paul content to be one among many, doing part God called him to while encouraging others to do same – enough work for all

no matter who all takes part in one coming to faith, is God who rightly receives glory for both empowering and converting

B. a heart for God  v.17-19

see what Christ has done

wanted none of glory/praise for himself or even for readers – purpose to draw attention to what Christ doing in and through them

whatever part of process of spiritual awakening/growth you consider, all traces back to Christ – uses many instruments, his fingers on handle

seeing what God was accomplishing in world made Paul’s day – kinds of things happening explainable only by God’s power

empowered by the Spirit

not a little detail that Jesus told disciples to go back to Jerusalem and wait – needed Spirit’s empowering and accompanying to succeed

best preaching ever, miracles with greatest “wow” factor only so much noise until Spirit wakes up spiritually dead and makes effectual

hasn’t changed: for us to be effective, must have hearts devoted to God, energized and empowered by Spirit

for the sake of the Gospel

from moment Paul “saw the light”, devoted all resources to proclaiming Gospel at every opportunity – determined to do his part to see power of God in the Gospel changing lost hopeless sinners into joyful heaven-bound saints

Rom. 1:16 “For I am not ashamed of the gospel of Christ, for it is the power of God to salvation for everyone who believes, for the Jew first and also for the Greek.”

b/c of Paul’s work accompanied by God’s power we have 1/2 NT; his work to push boundaries Gospel made around S Europe… to us

C. a heart for the lost  v.20-21

front lines

not satisfied to go little ways, stop, let someone go the next bit – determined to be out in front, engaging w/ unreached people

he also knew that was his ministry, not everyone’s – “another man’s foundation” – place for both, great need for both… still

Dispatches from the Front only few examples of needy places and work God is doing through faithful servants in our day

behind the lines

is those behind lines whom God uses to prepare “front line” workers – need training and building up in knowledge

also those who spread out and fill up poorly reached areas, often “thinly settled” places with Gospel witness but at distance

in our part of world are huge areas once blanketed with Gospel preaching churches but no longer, even downtown cities

D. a heart of hope

confidence in Christ

shown by quotation of Isaiah declaring what would happen when lost among the nations did eventually hear truth about Christ

not in his own efforts, not even all churches and believers he had been instrumental in leading to faith in Christ – salvation all of God

a completed work (Phil. 1:6)

we tend to make it personal – “He who has begun a good work in you will complete it until the day of Jesus Christ”

written “to all the saints …in Philippi” – work he has begun in his church will be completed, no area left out of his kingdom

worldwide praise

encouraged / motivated by what he saw as outcome of that: Phil. 2:10-11 “that at the name of Jesus every knee should bow, of those in heaven, and of those on earth, and of those under the earth, and that every tongue should confess that Jesus Christ is Lord, to the glory of God the Father.”

knowing God accomplishes his purpose w/o fail gives hope, the real genuine kind, that what we do for him will succeed in what he planned

Look back at little baby born in humble circumstances whose destiny would take him to cruel cross and cold, dark tomb. Know his story didn’t end there – look forward to glorious day when he returns. In full dependence and full confidence in Lord Jesus, our task to do part he has called us to so that all people everywhere hear good news of Gospel.

Praise the Lord!

Romans 15:7-13 

 

“Therefore” – what follows a summary conclusion of what was just said. iow, 7-13 restate/reinforce 1-6; zoom out a little and maybe all of chapter 14 too. Probably addressing issue of some significance in church at Rome, relations between Jew and Gentile in early church.

“”Therefore” gathers up the threads of Paul’s entire exhortation to the “strong” and the “weak.” Similarly, his command that believers in both groups “receive one another” brings the section to its climax.” NICNT

True, but… does that go far enough? Quotations from OT refer to “nations”, much broader scope than simply Rome, and Jesus never went to Rome. His example important but need to ratchet view finder back more clicks. Why is all this important, what is in big picture that captivated Paul’s interest, that motivated him and should do same for us? Something appears 4x in our text:

7 “to the glory of God”; 9 “glorify God”; 11 “praise the Lord”, “laud him”; 3x connected with “the nations”

Paul surely concerned about difficulties in local church but… had far bigger things in mind – praise and worship of God by people from all nations. Not just thinking about Sunday morning worship in lots of places, was thinking about global worship now and forever, seeing by faith what John saw in Rev. 5:8-14 Certainly from Rom. ch. 12 on, is all connected… also for us too – how we live and relate to one another and the Gospel counts for eternity and also who is part of the group John saw assembled.

A. welcome all kinds

brothers and sisters

there’s that term again, “one another” – describing a relationship that endures in next life, is important to start it well in this life

receive / welcome / accept into full fellowship w/o holding back – far more than “open door policy”, are family and need to know it and feel it

already have model to follow, Lord Jesus – think about one aspect: he received credit for all your sin w/o grumbling or reservation, paid debt in full, secured all privileges of child/friend (not servant)

when we act on basis of understanding how Jesus showed love for us that others “see your good works and glorify God”

ones that make us uncomfortable

can’t be so short-sighted we only welcome whoever has valid ID or fit preconception, what “one another” are supposed to look like or sound like or act like

truth is worship in God’s presence will be different for all and we’ll all be OK with it – may need to start “adjusting” before we get there

true for other parts of Christian life too – don’t lose sight of bottom line, saving faith in Jesus should guarantee welcome

remember Jesus’ example

denominations not new, Jesus had to deal with them – Pharisees, Sadducees, Essenes, Zealots, just among Jewish, plus Gentiles

then social distinctions – rich and poor, high class and low class – Jesus turned no one away, didn’t practice social distancing

for us to do the same requires overlooking, perhaps removing from use some distinctions we like to make, ones more important to us than to God

e.g. Col. 3:9-11 “you have put off the old man with his deeds, and have put on the new man who is renewed in knowledge according to the image of Him who created him, where there is neither Greek nor Jew, circumcised nor uncircumcised, barbarian, Scythian, slave nor free, but Christ is all and in all.”

why is all this important? why did Jesus act that way? why does he expect us to? b/c it’s nice, makes you feel good, brownie points?

B. glorify God

always the point

WSC Q1 and answer – chief end, main purpose “to glorify God and enjoy him forever”, living all life pleasing to God, drawing attention to him by love for one another

not new with Jesus, not limited to Jews, Catechism rightly says “chief end of man” – created for that purpose from beginning

“Noteworthy is the success in drawing from all three parts of the OT (Law, Prophets, Writings), and the use of so many different “praise” (5) words—ἐξοµολογει̂σθαι, ψάλλειν, εὐφραίνεσθαι, αἰνει̂ν, and ἐπαινει̂ν.”  WBC

clear from all of Scripture all of mankind has had duty to worship true God always – sin messed it up but did not dissolve duty

privilege of all people

God lovingly intended worship and fellowship with him to be not chore/burden but delight, cause for rejoicing known to everyone

while God’s special attention focused on Hebrew children, never was to exclude other peoples – God has never refused access to him based on country or family of origin

Melchizedek, Rahab, Ruth all Gentiles and cannot overlook Jonah, prophet sent to Gentile Ninevites – not only God’s purpose, is his desire that people of all kinds give glory to him

b/c of Jesus’ atoning work and all that accompanies it, privilege accessible to more people and in more ways than ever before

God’s plan from the beginning

we know from observation of humanity, is essential aspect of being human to worship – is as much human as any other trait

if is essential to design, exercising trait properly also included in original design – not something Adam and Eve struggled with

worshiping, praising, glorifying, rejoicing in God greatest and most rewarding thing we can do/enjoy both now and later

C. abound in hope

filled with joy and peace

rapidly approaching time when celebrate appearing of root of Jesse, one who was born Savior and King to rule over the nations

brought with him joy and peace as angels announced to shepherds, available to them and us by faith, God’s gracious gift

not just little bit or some of the time, rather never ending supply of joy and peace that keeps us constantly filled to overflowing

overflowing with hope

joy and peace in this measure accompanied by hope, firm confidence in not the future but God who transcends time

“Many things about tomorrow I don’t seem to understand But I know who holds tomorrow And I know who holds my hand.”

obvious confidence gives opportunities for witness, to tell others source of confidence, give credit / glory to heavenly Father

empowered by the Spirit

is certain we will not, we cannot live this way without God’s help – Holy Spirit has teaching ministry, also is the one who empowers

he may be quiet person of Godhead, is every bit as necessary and powerful as Father and Son, he enables our service to be effective

So what’s the deal? When God’s people speak and think and act as followers of Christ, Christ’s kingdom will grow, God will receive glory, and his people will be blessed. Our desire should be to do all we can to add to number of those praising the Lord – more men, women, boys, girls coming to Christ every day and adding their voices to ours. Was Paul’s vision and John’s and should be ours also.

Think about what we will experience some day: we hear just our group singing gloria’s as part of Christmas songs. Time will come when will be countless thousands of us from every people group including ones still unreached singing with full voice in very presence of God. Can start practicing now, wearing our identity as follower of Jesus confidently, with hope and joy and peace wherever we go.

One Mind and Voice

Romans 15:1-6 

5x high priestly prayer – 17:11,21,22,23 – “that they may be one”. Follows Jesus’ direct command to disciples to love one another – 13:34, 15:12, 17. Included is Jesus’ statement: 13:35 “By this all will know that you are My disciples, if you have love for one another.” Very likely other things in Jesus’ mind that night in the “upper room”. However… attitude of his followers toward one another was major concern for him… including what their example would communicate to everyone around them. Unity and “one-anothering” something NT writers emphasized many times in their letters.

Often put number of Christian denominations together with lack of unity, see one as example of other. Is accurate, but… not where it starts. Also not where Jesus and Paul and others focused attention. They were much more concerned about person-to-person relationships, understanding importance of those being in good health. Is important as we consider topic of “one mind and voice” to be reminded of how much we need Spirit’s help to know what things we must agree on and which we can safely differ about. Is absolutely essential when trying to build bridges with those from different culture/religion that we keep straight points of genuine agreement, ones that may sound the same but mean different things.

For important principles like this is most helpful to know not only what we believe but why we believe it. If we are to follow Jesus closely and faithfully, need to know what to do, how Jesus did it, how we know that, and how to actually put it into practice. Must stress if we are to succeed at pleasing God in how we do this, cannot do it alone, in own strength, apart from means God has appointed for us to use.

A. what we should do  v.1-2

bear with others

“In Essentials Unity, In Non-Essentials Liberty, In All Things Charity” – from tract written during Thirty-Years War, time of religious and political conflict in Europe

Paul not referring to “Essentials” first, rather “Non-Essentials” – those things about Christian life and practice w/ either-or liberty

really asking brothers and sisters to set aside liberty when necessary for sake of others – something we should gain greater satisfaction from than pleasing self

don’t get wrong idea, God not expecting us to sacrifice real blessings/pleasure, instead to be blessed by pursuing right things right way

please our neighbor

an occasion to use “rule of faith”, allowing Scripture to interpret itself – what meant by “please his neighbor”, what not meant

Bible very plain, told twice: “Don’t work only while being watched, in order to please men, but as slaves of Christ, do God’s will from your heart.” (Eph. 6:6, Col 3:22)

should be trying to gain their improvement, not their approval, seeking first God’s approval by doing what is good for neighbor

remember our destiny: “predestined to be conformed to the image of his Son” – whatever facilitates that for both self, neighbor

B. what Christ did  v.3

didn’t pull rank

if anyone had legitimate right to please himself, Jesus did… he was God after all… yet he “made Himself of no reputation, taking the form of a bondservant, and coming in the likeness of men.”  Phil. 2:7 

as he approached greatest crisis of his life, “deferred” to Father’s wishes and put need of sinful men, women, boys, girls before own desire

that is example we have to follow, the one he left for us that we “should follow in his steps” – not walk alongside and avoid hard stuff

did bear reproach

Jesus chose the right way, not the easy one – consider only circumstances during years of ministry, never went out of his way to avoid reproaches of important people incl. religious leaders

come to end of ministry, more than any other time he endured insults directed toward God, did so w/o answering back

endured all that and more for sake of glorifying his Father through his obedience in accomplishing our salvation for future joy he anticipated

God-Man could not do all that by himself, didn’t even try – acted in complete dependence on the Father even when he felt abandoned

C. how we know it  v.4

an inspired book

not make-believe, not wishful thinking, not something made up to help feel better – know all this b/c God put in writing for our learning

Bible intended by author to be far more than simple entertainment – God’s purpose to instruct us, not leave us to try and find out by trial and error

since only way to approach Father is through Lord Jesus, how gracious and kind of him to have it written down and made available

just as important, truth not sugar-coated or disguised in it – is plainly written, both good and bad, easy and hard

a source of hope

put it all together, Genesis to Revelation, intended to give confidence in future b/c we have confidence in God of the future

won’t give hope if God’s truth stays locked up between covers of a closed Bible – must be read / studied / understood / applied

God has given helpers to understand his truth – Spirit, pastors/teachers, one another – doesn’t expect us to sort all out by ourselves

can be dangerous – get an idea, go down rabbit trail, get lost out in weirdo-land and can’t find way back – many examples

D. how we do it  v.5-6

together

first negative thing God said: “it is not good that man should be alone” – if that was true before sin, even more necessary now

must have help and encouragement of each other to be right-minded – is by God’s intentional design that it is that way

are fully dependent on God and his gracious gift of like-mindedness – is way of thinking we naturally resist until God changes desires

in order to be pleasing to God it takes 3 of us minimum – us, other person, God – all working together to reach goal of Christ-likeness

by prayer

prayer is essential for meeting our own needs, we need to be praying for others, we need to pray that together we would glorify God with united mind and voice

also need to act according to Jesus’ example – remember he did say: “Whoever desires to come after Me, let him deny himself, and take up his cross, and follow Me.”

remember also why Jesus did what he did:

“Therefore we also, since we are surrounded by so great a cloud of witnesses, let us lay aside every weight, and the sin which so easily ensnares us, and let us run with endurance the race that is set before us, looking unto Jesus, the author and finisher of our faith, who for the joy that was set before Him endured the cross, despising the shame, and has sat down at the right hand of the throne of God. For consider Him who endured such hostility from sinners against Himself, lest you become weary and discouraged in your souls.”  Heb. 12:1-3 

All seven plural pronouns in those verses are important – one of God’s good gifts is one another. God has put us together in families – human families, church families, his family. We are truly in it together – thank God we have one another for help, to encourage, to grow with together in likeness to Lord Jesus.

 

Free to Be Righteous

Romans 14:13-23 

Coming Saturday – Veteran’s Day – soldiers often risk their lives to ensure we and others in our world are able to exercise rights endowed by our Creator, right of life, liberty and pursuit of happiness. Lord Jesus gave his life that we his people would be able to enjoy life, liberty and the pursuit of righteousness. Too many professed Christians put too much effort into pursuing happiness, not enough in pursuing righteousness. Ought not be true for us.

Is also not difficult in pursuit of something to become so intent on what we’re pursuing we don’t give enough attention to what’s happening around us. Are free to pursue righteousness, to be righteous, but not free to do anything we want. And… our pursuit must not come at expense of others. Rather, must be continually mindful of others all along our way, especially those following behind. Whenever possible should do our part to steer them around potholes, not leave extra obstacles in the path of following Jesus.

Much of what we do every day don’t have to consciously think about, reason through steps start to finish, do our routine tasks automatically. Really should be like that most of the time when comes to living Christian life. Requires we have Bible knowledge and biblical worldview – know God’s word, what it says / means and how applies together with framework for understanding world established by Bible. And we need to keep it continually refreshed, spending time in God’s word regularly.

A. don’t trip your brother – walk in love  v.13-15

an obstacle

wonderful place to live, gardens produce flowers/vegetables/rocks in abundance, say nothing about coastline, 3500 miles rock

plenty of opportunity for stumbling, even falling – factor in effects of frost/freeze/thaw cycles, paving material not quite aligned

sometimes is one with enough size / contrast so is readily seen, can be avoided – other times less obvious, still hinders progress

often smaller things we trip over – might seem insignificant to some, major trip hazard for others, usually no warning marks

free to consider others

b/c minds being renewed / informed by Holy Spirit, are free to spot dangers… avoid ourselves, guide others safely around

maybe something we have liberty to do, Paul uses example of food, perhaps explanation of our belief first makes big difference

can require explanation plus time to help fellow believer understand – we have to be sensitive to others, things they might be offended by, do our part to not cause offence

keep priorities straight

too often, world’s view is that personal rights rank highest w/o regard for anyone else, if they don’t like it, too bad, their problem

as Christians we seek God’s approval and at same time use our freedom to lead others away from sin, not into it, instead closer to Christ

talking about other believers here, right desire is for all of us together to be more like Jesus each day, do our part to advance cause of Gospel

was Paul’s stated priority back at beginning, that power of Gospel would be seen and felt in every part of world by all kinds of people

B. don’t trip your neighbor – build one another up  v.16-21

avoid misunderstanding

let’s broaden it out some more – if keeping main thing the main thing, what is it? what fits inside circle of self? or what encompasses kingdom of God?

important thing to live in such a way that (insofar as possible) we do what is good and right in a good and right way

will always be some to find fault but… give only good things for them to work with – if you think actions might be misunderstood, try to figure out different way to get it done

serve Christ

good people can do good things, are thankful when they do, have seen some recently – but… Christian does good for Christ

need to think about that more, thinking about who we are serving while we are serving, am sure would change how we do it

not easy to think about serving Christ while serving self – comes much more easily when serving Christ as we do good for others

pursue and encourage righteousness

if kingdom of God is righteousness, peace, joy, what we do should stimulate growth of those in own lives and lives of others we are close to

is opposite of what will cause fellow believer to stumble in Christian walk – need to be putting steps not toe-stubbers in his path

those little things we leave along the way should be what helps others step up in their likeness to Lord Jesus, grow in righteousness

one of hardest parts about being Christian, intentionally doing those things that encourage growth of Christian character in others

C. don’t trip your conscience – be happy  v.22-23

act confidently

our faith in God should give great confidence, courage, not cockiness or arrogance – remember who is the strong one here, it’s him not you

faith must be founded on truth, what we know to be true and not what we want to be true – iow, what God’s word says plainly

when have confidence and is confirmed by guidance of Holy Spirit, act in full dependence on God and his strength made complete in your weakness

not reckless confidence, one that believes if signals got crossed God will let you know – bring other truth to mind, close door of opportunity

when in doubt…

when really not sure about something don’t act until you are sure – can be what someone else expects, not your own initiative

Martin Luther, Diet of Worms, 1521:

“If, then, I am not convinced by proof from Holy Scripture, or by cogent reasons, if I am not satisfied by the very text I have cited, and if my judgment is not in this way brought into subjection to God’s word, I neither can nor will retract anything; for it cannot be either safe or honest for a Christian to speak against his conscience.”

notice carefully: “subjection to God’s word” comes first, then clear properly informed conscience, then determined action

be blessed

happy a good translation, same word Matthew records Jesus using Sermon on the Mount (Beatitudes), supremely blest

to live in attitude of serving Christ with clear conscience lives well, sleeps well, confident of God’s blessing in this life and the next

How do we get to that place… and stay there? Doesn’t simply happen by itself, not automatic benefit of salvation subscription. Lord Jesus expects us to follow him. Holy Spirit’s ministry in part to lead us. And don’t be dragging your feet, chasing rabbit trails, get as close to Jesus as you can, and don’t let go. Don’t be satisfied with anything less than full serving of Jesus.