DO NOT BE ASHAMED OF THE GOSPEL

Proclamation:

“For I am not ashamed of the gospel, because it is the power of God that brings salvation to everyone who believes; first to the Jew, then to the Gentile.  For in the gospel the righteousness of God is revealed, a righteousness that is by faith from the first to the last, just as it is written: ‘The righteous will live by faith.’”  Romans 1:16-17 (NIV)

Explanation:

The Bible Book of Romans was written by the Apostle Paul under the influence of The Holy Spirit of God.  Paul begins this epistle by explaining who he is, why he is writing this letter, and to whom he is writing it. (Romans 1:1-7)  After stating that he longs to see them in person, (Romans 1:8-13) and to preach to them, (Romans 1:15) he then states that he is not ashamed of the gospel of Jesus, The Christ.  After this, Paul goes on to explain why mankind needs the gospel and then he lists their sinful behaviors. (Romans 1:18-32)

Application:

The Bible Book of Romans is frequently referred to as “The Roman road to salvation” because it clearly presents what it takes for a person to be saved.  Believers are encouraged to read this book and The Bible Book of John as they begin Christian walk.  Here, Paul makes it clear that he is not ashamed of the gospel and he explains why, because in the gospel the righteousness of God is revealed.  We should also be aware of the fact that Jesus, The Christ, said, “If you deny me before men, I will deny you before my Father which is in heaven.” (Matthew 10:33)  We do not want Him to say to us, “Depart from me …” (Matthew 7:22-23)  Where ever we are, we should also be able to boldly state, “I am a believer in Jesus, The Christ, and I am not ashamed of the gospel.”  The gospel has the power of God unto salvation.