Romans – a devotional thought

June 25, 2014 (Wednesday)
Everywhere the Apostle Paul went, he proclaimed salvation by grace, but certain Jews (who became known as “Judaizers”) who believed one must first become a Jew before becoming a Christian constantly opposed him. They followed him into every place, stirring up discontent among converts and opposition by others. Paul is in Corinth as he writes the book of Romans, hoping that he will soon have the opportunity of preaching in Rome. In light of the controversy created by the Judaizers, Paul takes his time and makes the letter to the Romans a well-planned treatise on justification by faith alone apart from works of the law. His reasoned argument is easily followed:

1. All people–Jews and Gentiles–stand condemned before God because
all have sinned.
2. All people–Jews and Gentiles–can be justified (declared righteous) by faith.
3. All people–Jews and Gentiles–who know Christ by faith are freed from slavery to sin, and enabled by the Holy Spirit to live on a high plane of peace and joy. (Make special note that the Jews are included in this marvelous plan of justification by faith).
4. All believers can apply their faith in practical ways in their daily lives.

Romans – A devotional thought
Salvation is not something we earn; it is the free gift of God in Christ, accepted by faith. We can say with Paul, “I am not ashamed of the gospel of Christ, for it is the power of God for salvation to everyone who believes, to the Jew first and also to the Greek” (Romans 1:16).
“Marvelous grace! Infinite grace!”
“Amazing grace!”