Contributor: Clem Roberts

Introduction:
Last week we looked at the introduction to the book of Hebrews and an overview of what we should expect as we study this great book of the Holy Bible.
Who wrote the book of Hebrews? Some say Priscilla, Apollos, Paul, Timothy, or Clement, etc. I would rather we concentrate on the message and the fact it made in the canon of scriptures than any other summation.

Vs 1-3:
“God, who at sundry times and in divers manners spake in time past unto the fathers by the prophets, 2 Hath in these last days spoken unto us by his Son, whom he hath appointed heir of all things, by whom also he made the worlds; 3 Who being the brightness of his glory, and the express image of his person, and upholding all things by the word of his power, when he had by himself purged our sins, sat down on the right hand of the Majesty on high:”

The first three verses of chapter one gives us the entire idea or summary of what the book is all about. In this chapter we get to understand the three main offices that Jesus occupies, that should be replicated in our Christian lives. That is:
• The Kingly Office of Our Lord Jesus Christ
• The Prophetic Office of Our Lord Jesus Christ.
• The Priestly Office of Our Lord Jesus Christ
Characteristics of Jesus
• He is the image of the Father
• First Begotten Son
• He is the heir of all things
• Through the Son the ages were made
• He is brightness of God’s glory
• He upholds all things by His power
• He made purification of sin
• He sat down on Majesty on High

Son Exalted above Angels - Vs 4 – 7
“Being made so much better than the angels, as he hath by inheritance obtained a more excellent name than they. 5 For unto which of the angels said he at any time, Thou art my Son, this day have I begotten thee? And again, I will be to him a Father, and he shall be to me a Son? 6 And again, when he bringeth in the firstbegotten into the world, he saith, And let all the angels of God worship him. 7 And of the angels he saith, Who maketh his angels spirits, and his ministers a flame of fire.”

•His Deity
•His Humanity
•The Provision of Salvation

Why the comparison to Angels?
Our perception of angels is largely influenced by a composite of Biblical insight and also misconceptions from English literature.
From the perspective of the Jews looking at the old testament, they regarded angels as the most exalted of all God’s creatures. So, the Hebrew writer was reminding them of the more Exalted One.

Verses 8 – 9
“8 But unto the Son he saith, Thy throne, O God, is for ever and ever: a sceptre of righteousness is the sceptre of thy kingdom. 9 Thou hast loved righteousness, and hated iniquity; therefore, God, even thy God, hath anointed thee with the oil of gladness above thy fellows.”

“The sceptre of thy kingdom”: vs 8; There are two characteristics of this sceptre:
•Loves righteousness
•Hates wickedness.

Conclusion:

Thou hast loved righteousness, and hated iniquity; therefore God, even thy God, hath anointed thee with the oil of gladness above thy fellows.

In order to reign with Christ, we need to hate and be totally disgusted about sin. Don’t polish it, don’t embellish it Just hate it. God has given us the ability to hate sin and He sent the Comforter to help us in all situations. Read John 15:26, Amos 5:5 and John 14:21.

Contributor: Alex Alajiki

INTRODUCTION:
The letter was written to the Hebrew or Jewish Christians. King James credited Apostle with authorship of this epistle, but historian and theologians disputed this fact because of notable theological variations, and a lack of Paul’s customary signature (2 Cor. 1:1; Gal. 1:1; Eph.1:1)
The author had extensive knowledge of Jewish traditions, which he references frequently throughout the book and did not personally witness Christ’s ministry (Hebrews 2:3).

The Main Theme
This book is the bridge that connects the Old Testament and the New. The words “better” and “superior” in their Greek forms are scattered throughout the book fifteen times, clearly demonstrating that, as the Messiah, Jesus Christ is the only priest, sacrifice, and covenant the Jews need. The main purpose was to encourage Jewish Christians to hold to their faith in the face of persecution and not return to the Law. The entire book is about Jesus and how He is the guarantee of a new and better covenant. It is essential for every Christian to understand this book.

1) Chapter 1 - God’s Supreme Revelation
Hebrews 1 is about the supremacy of Christ Jesus vs 1-4. It paints a wonderful picture of how He is superior to the angels because of His redemptive work on the cross. Jesus is the exact representation of the Father and was sent to communicate to us the true nature of God. By understanding who Jesus is and what He said, we can know the fullness of God's nature and character.

2) Chapter 2 - The Role of Christ in Salvation
Hebrews 2 talks about the role of Christ in salvation. Jesus was briefly humbled and took on human form so he could taste death for everyone. It was fitting that Jesus, through whom everything exists, was the author of salvation. He shared in humanity so that through His death he might destroy him who holds the power of death. We must pay close attention to this so we do not ignore such a great salvation.

3) Chapter 3 - Jesus is Greater than Moses
Hebrews 3 conveys the fact that Jesus is our faithful high priest who eternally resides over the house of God as a son. It shows His superiority to Moses and the covenant of the law. This chapter also serves as a warning, quoting Psalm 95, we are admonished not to go astray and harden our hearts, as the wilderness generation did. We are to encourage each other daily and stand strong until the end with confidence in Christ.

4) Chapter 4 - The Believer's Rest
Hebrews 4 offers true Sabbath rest for the people of God through faith in Christ. This rest for God's people is what was promised throughout the entire Old Testament. True Sabbath rest does not come from adhering to the law or taking a break from work one day of the week. The believer’s rest comes to fulfilment in our lives by fellowshipping with Christ.

5) Chapter 5 - Jesus is the Perfect High Priest
Hebrews 5 shows Jesus as God's appointed High priest who became the source of eternal salvation for everyone who believes. He was subjected to the weakness of the flesh yet without sin. He learned
obedience through what he suffered so in the same way he is able to help those who will inherit salvation. Jesus was designed by God to be our high priest forever in the order of Melchizedek.

6) Chapter 6 -Warning Against Falling Away
Hebrews 6 serves as a warning against walking away from the truth and becoming reprobate (damned). Falling away makes it impossible to come back to repentance because it subjects Christ once again to open shame. However, there are better things accompanying salvation for us who continue on with Christ. We can proceed toward that steadfast hope entering through the veil which Christ has opened to us

7) Chapter 7 - Melchizedek's Priesthood like Christ's
Hebrews 7 compares Jesus and Melchizedek, a priest forever without lineage. Abraham paid honour and tithes to Melchizedek and by doing so the Levitical priesthood was blessed by him as Levi was still inside of Abraham. In this fashion, Jesus is also a priest forever like Melchizedek. However, He is not of the tribe of Levi. With a change in priesthood there must also be a change in the law. Jesus has proven His priesthood by his indestructible life. Because of this He is able to save completely those who draw near to God through Him since He always lives to intercede for them.

8) Chapters 8 & 9- Superiority of the New Covenant
Hebrews 8 shows that Jesus is the mediator of a new and better covenant which has been enacted on better promises. Jesus is ministering in the heavenly tabernacle at the right hand of God not in an earthly one (which was a copy and shadow of heavenly things). The New Covenant is written on our hearts and enables us to know the Lord in an intimate way. Jesus has promised to forgive our sins and remember them no more. The New Covenant has made the Old one obsolete.
Hebrews 9 shows how worship in the Old Testament could not perfect the worshipper because it related only to food, drink, various washings and regulations for the body. However, when Christ appeared He entered into the heavenly tabernacle and poured out His own blood on the mercy seat.

9) Chapters 10 & 11 - Christ's Sacrifice Once for All and The Faith Hall of Fame
Hebrews 10 shows that the Law was never able to make perfect those who draw near because it was a shadow of the good things to come and not a reality in itself. Otherwise the sacrifices would have ceased to be offered. Instead they served as an annual reminder of sin. But when Jesus came He offered one sacrifice for sin for all time and then sat down at the right hand of the Father. Now we can draw near to God through the veil of Christ's body, having our hearts sprinkled clean and our conscience clear.
Hebrews 11 paints a wonderful picture of the men and women who triumphed by faith; people who believed God and pursued His promises even though many didn't see them come to pass in their lifetime. This chapter defines faith and shows that it pleases God.

10) Chapters 12 & 13 - Jesus is Our Example
Hebrews 12 is a call to persevere looking to Christ as our example. He endured the shame of the cross to bring us into fellowship with God, in the same way we should keep our eyes on him as we run the race of life.
Hebrews 13 is a mixture of warnings, requests and final exhortations. It is a reminder to the fellowship of Christ, to let love remain, show hospitality and honour each other. As well as remembering to pray for leaders in the church. This book ends on a wonderful note by reminding us that Jesus is the same yesterday, today and forever.
Reference: https://www.jcblog.net

Contributor: Isekhua Evborokhai

INTRODUCTION

We have finally come to the last chapter and study of the book of Romans. A study that was filled with deep revelations and exciting truth! From last week’s study, we learnt some biblical concepts of Christian ministry modelled by the apostle Paul. And in today’s study of the concluding chapter of the letter to the Romans, we learn some more in Paul’s final greeting and a not so obvious (hidden) message. When you come to a section of Scripture like Romans 16 with its long list of names, it’s good to keep in mind Paul’s words in 2 Timothy 3:16-17, “All Scripture is inspired by God and profitable for teaching, for reproof, for correction, for training in righteousness; so that the man of God may be adequate, equipped for every good work.” So let's read the entire chapter

Romans 16:1-27 (NKJV) 

"I commend to you Phoebe our sister, who is a servant of the church in Cenchrea, 2 that you may receive her in the Lord in a manner worthy of the saints, and assist her in whatever business she has need of you; for indeed she has been a helper of many and of myself also. 3 Greet Priscilla and Aquila, my fellow workers in Christ Jesus, 4 who risked their own necks for my life, to whom not only I give thanks, but also all the churches of the Gentiles. 5 Likewise greet the church that is in their house. Greet my beloved Epaenetus, who is the firstfruits of Achaia to Christ. 6 Greet Mary, who labored much for us. 7 Greet Andronicus and Junia, my countrymen and my fellow prisoners, who are of note among the apostles, who also were in Christ before me. 8 Greet Amplias, my beloved in the Lord. 9 Greet Urbanus, our fellow worker in Christ, and Stachys, my beloved. 10 Greet Apelles, approved in Christ. Greet those who are of the household of Aristobulus. 11 Greet Herodion, my countryman. Greet those who are of the household of Narcissus who are in the Lord. 12 Greet Tryphena and Tryphosa, who have labored in the Lord. Greet the beloved Persis, who labored much in the Lord. 13 Greet Rufus, chosen in the Lord, and his mother and mine. 14 Greet Asyncritus, Phlegon, Hermas, Patrobas, Hermes, and the brethren who are with them. 15 Greet Philologus and Julia, Nereus and his sister, and Olympas, and all the saints who are with them. 16 Greet one another with a holy kiss. The churches of Christ greet you. 17 Now I urge you, brethren, note those who cause divisions and offenses, contrary to the doctrine which you learned, and avoid them. 18 For those who are such do not serve our Lord Jesus Christ, but their own belly, and by smooth words and flattering speech deceive the hearts of the simple. 19 For your obedience has become known to all. Therefore I am glad on your behalf; but I want you to be wise in what is good, and simple concerning evil. 20 And the God of peace will crush Satan under your feet shortly. The grace of our Lord Jesus Christ be with you. Amen. 21 Timothy, my fellow worker, and Lucius, Jason, and Sosipater, my countrymen, greet you. 22 I, Tertius, who wrote this epistle, greet you in the Lord. 23 Gaius, my host and the host of the whole church, greets you. Erastus, the treasurer of the city, greets you, and Quartus, a brother. 24 The grace of our Lord Jesus Christ be with you all. Amen. 25 Now to Him who is able to establish you according to my gospel and the preaching of Jesus Christ, according to the revelation of the mystery kept secret since the world began 26 but now made manifest, and by the prophetic Scriptures made known to all nations, according to the commandment of the everlasting God, for obedience to the faith— 27 to God, alone wise, be glory through Jesus Christ forever. Amen."
So, what can we learn from these verses of scripture?

1. A Pastor/Shepherd Must Pay Close Attention to the Members of His Flock.
We observe this from this closing chapter of Paul’s letter. Paul obviously knew many of the saints in Rome by name and some of them closely, even though he had not yet visited Rome. These would have been people he had known somewhere else in the Roman Empire. In these first 23 verses Paul mentioned over 30 names. 8 of these people were with Paul (vs 21-23). The others were in Rome; a mix of men and women. There were two households mentioned, and two unnamed women (the mother of Rufus and the sister of Nereus). as well as some unnamed brethren. The chapter brims with personal relationships that reflect Paul’s love for people. This is what Proverbs 27:23 (TPT) says: “A shepherd should pay close attention to the faces of his flock and hold close to his heart the condition of those he cares for.”

2. The Church is Made Up of Ordinary and Diverse People Who Are “In the Lord.”
(a) The Diversity
Sister Phoebe (vs 1) “a servant of the church which is at Cenchrea”. Most scholars think that she was the one who carried the letter to Rome. She was a “helper” or “patroness” or “benefactor” of many, including Paul. A majority of the names in this list are Gentile names, indicating the Gentile majority in the church. And the majority of the names are those of either slaves or freed slaves. Some in the list may have been a part of Caesar’s household (see Phil. 4:22, written from Rome). Aristobulus (vs10) was a grandson of Herod the Great and was a close friend of the Emperor Claudius; but was not a believer. However, his slaves were. The household of Narcissus (vs 11) also probably referred to the slaves belonging to a wealthy, wicked freed slave who was also friends with the Emperor Claudius. Tertius, Paul’s secretary in Corinth (vs 22), and Quartus, whom Paul simply calls “the brother” (vs 23), were probably slaves. Tertius had the very important task of accurately recording Paul’s dictated words. Quartus is no longer just the fourth nameless slave, but is “the brother,” a noble designation. Paul also mentions Erastus, the city treasurer, an important public position. Prisca and Aquila (vs 3) were fellow tentmakers and fellow Jews with Paul, as were the others in this chapter whom he called “my kinsmen” (vs 7, 11, 21).
So the church in Rome was made up of these ordinary but diverse people; men and women. Some were slaves, others were blue collar workers, and still others were wealthy.
(b) The Common Bond
What drew them together and united them? We find the answer in a phrase that Paul repeats eleven times in these verses: “in the Lord” or “in Christ.” He asks the Romans to receive Phoebe “in the Lord” (vs 2). He commends Prisca and Aquila as his “fellow workers in Christ Jesus” (vs 3). He says that Andronicus and Junias “were in Christ before me” (vs 7). He calls Ampliatus “my beloved in the Lord” (vs 8). Urbanus is “our fellow worker in Christ” (vs 9). Apelles is “the approved in Christ” (vs 10). Perhaps he had endured some difficult trial in a commendable way. Paul sends greetings to those of the household of Narcissus, “who are in the Lord” (vs 11). Tryphaena and Tryphosa are “workers in the
Lord” (vs 12). Persis the beloved “has worked hard in the Lord” (vs 12). Rufus is “chosen in the Lord” (vs 13). And Tertius, Paul’s secretary, sends his greetings “in the Lord” (vs 22).
As we’ve seen in Romans, being “in Christ” through faith is the most important designation that can be true of anyone.

3. The Church Is Made Up of Ordinary People Growing to Know the Lord Through Sound Doctrine.
It’s significant that although Romans is the most doctrinally deep letter in the New Testament, it was written to help common people, many of them slaves, to know Christ and grow in their walk with Him. It was a letter to ordinary people like you and I; not just for theologians or scholars.

4. The Church Is Made Up of Diverse People Who Are Deepening Their Relationships with One Another in The Lord.
There are over 30 names in these verses and it’s likely that Paul knew most of them personally. He mentions four of them as being especially close (“my beloved” or “the beloved”; vs 5, 8, 9, 12), including Epaenetus, who was the first convert in Asia. He calls Phoebe “our sister” (vs 1) and Quartus “the brother” (vs 23). He mentions Rufus’ mother as being his own mother (vs 13). Apparently she had ministered to Paul as a mother would, perhaps when he was ill. Prisca and Aquila had risked their lives for Paul. He also directs the believers in Rome to greet one another with a holy kiss (vs16), a common custom in that culture (1 Cor. 16:20; 2 Cor. 13:12; 1 Thess. 5:26; 1 Pet. 5:14). All of these personal, warm greetings reflect the love between Paul and these believers and between all believers. It’s amazing that he could remember all of these names! Clearly, he took a personal interest in people, and so should we. We are not called to be Christians in isolation, but rather in relationship with one another.

5. The Church Is Made Up of People Who Are Family and Thus Are Hospitable and Helpful Toward One Another.
Paul urges the church to extend hospitality to Phoebe, whom he calls “our sister.” She was family. Quartus was “the brother.” Prisca and Aquila opened their home to host the gatherings of the church (vs 5), which they also did in Ephesus (1 Cor. 16:19). Probably the two groups mentioned in 16:14 & 15 represented other house churches, which could perhaps hold as many as 70 or 80 people. In Corinth, Gaius apparently hosted a church in his house (vs 23). For at least the first two centuries, churches had to meet in homes due to persecution.

6. The Church Is Made Up of People Who Work Hard Together for The Lord.
Paul repeatedly mentions how these people were involved in serving the Lord. Phoebe was “a servant of the church in Cenchrea,” a port city near Corinth (vs 1). She may have held an official position as a deaconess (1 Tim. 3:11). She was devoted to serving the church. Paul calls Prisca and Aquila “my fellow workers in Christ Jesus” (16:3). Paul had met them in Corinth, where they worked together as tentmakers after they had been forced to leave Rome when Claudius expelled the Jews (Acts 18:1-3). By the way, Paul always calls her Prisca, the more formal name. Luke uses Priscilla, which was the diminutive nickname (like Liz for Elizabeth). They later accompanied Paul to Ephesus, where after Paul left they helped Apollos get straightened out in his doctrine (Acts 18:24-26). Now they had moved back to Rome. Still later, they would move back to Ephesus again (2 Tim. 4:19). Wherever they went, their hearts were for building up the church. Husbands and wives can find great joy in working together for the Lord. Husbands, if you and your wife host a home fellowship, help her with the work! Paul also mentions Mary, “who has worked hard for you” (vs 6). He calls Urbanus “our fellow worker in Christ” (vs 9). Tryphaena and Tryphosa (probably sisters, whose names mean Delicate and Dainty) were not fragile—they were “workers in the Lord” (vs 12)! Persis (another woman) “has worked hard in the Lord” (vs 12). And he calls Timothy “my fellow worker” (vs 21). As we saw in chapter 12, every believer has been given at least one spiritual gift that he or she is to use in serving the Lord. There should be no benchwarmers in the body of Christ. (See 1Peter 4:10-11)
Whatever your gifts and calling, the most important thing is that you know that Christ has saved you from eternal judgment because you have put your trust in Him as Saviour and Lord. Then look for ways that you can serve the Lord, as these people did. Read through the descriptions again and ask yourself, “How would Paul have described me if he had known me?”

7. The Church Is Made Up of Both Men and Women Who Serve the Lord, But in Different Roles and Capacities.
In the male-dominated culture of that day, it is significant that Paul mentions four women who worked hard in the Lord (vs 6, 12), plus Prisca who along with her husband Aquila were “fellow workers in Christ Jesus” (vs 3). Paul entrusted probably the only copy of this precious letter to a woman, Phoebe, for safe delivery to Rome. In all, Paul mentions seven women by name, plus Rufus’ mother (vs 13) and Nereus’ sister (vs 15). Obviously Paul believed that women have an important role to play in serving the Lord. Second, although scholars for centuries have been divided over whether Junias (vs 7) the wife of Andronicus. “Outstanding among the apostles” could mean that the apostles regarded this couple as outstanding, or more likely it means that among those who were apostles, this couple stood out.

8. The Church Is Made Up of Whole Families That Have Come to Faith in Christ Through the Gospel.
Paul mentions two households (vs 10, 11), which referred to both the biological family members and the servants, plus Rufus’ mother and Nereus’ sister (16:13, 15). In the Book of Acts, we see whole households coming to faith (2:39, “you and your children”; 10:1-48, Cornelius; 16:15, Lydia; 16:31-34, the Philippian jailer).

Conclusion (Final Warning & Praise)
These verses of today’s study, along with other lists of genealogies in the Bible, are inspired by God for our spiritual profit to equip us for every good work. It is the Holy Spirit that inspired Paul to write these greetings to teach us. What we have learnt today about the church in Rome that teaches us much about what our church ought to be. And the individuals greeted here can motivate and encourage each of us to be all that God wants us to be. Paul’s closing admonishment to the Church in Rome to watch out for those who cause divisions and offenses among them strongly applies to us today. He points out that such people are not truly serving the Lord, but are being driven by their own desires for a following. Also very relevant is his admonishment of the Church to become scholars of all that is good and beautiful, and stay pure and innocent when it comes to evil.
He then prays a prayer in verse 20 we must covet today:
“That the God of peace will swiftly pound Satan to a pulp under our feet! And the wonderful favour of our Lord Jesus will surround us." (TPT)
And finally an offering of praise and glory to the only Source of wisdom, the One who has more than enough power to make us strong and keep us steadfast through the promises found in the Gospel of Jesus Christ! And to that we say “Amen!” Just as the Romans would have said and walked away enriched by the revelations in this letter, so we must! Shalom!

Parts of this study was culled from: https://bible.org/seriespage/lesson-106-snapshot-church-romans-161-16-21-23

Contributor: Leye Olayiwola

INTRODUCTION: In our in-depth study of the opening verses of Romans 15, Apostle Paul admonished the strong believers to bear with the failings of the weak, because this reflects and exemplify the true spirit of love. He cited Jesus Christ’s example of not pleasing Himself and having to work for the good and edification of others. This is what we are admonished to emulate as fellow believers.
Today, we conclude on Paul’s letter to the Romans in Chapter 15 where we find biblical concept of Christian ministry modeled by the apostle Paul. Three times the apostle Paul calls upon his readers to follow his example or imitate him (see 1 Corinthians 4:16, 11:1; Philippians 3:17). In this section at the close of his letter to the Romans, we will glean from Paul’s view of ministry and keys to a fruitful work (ministry) with the Lord.

AFFIRMING OTHERS – Verse 14
“14 Now I myself am confident concerning you, my brethren, that you also are full of goodness, filled with all knowledge, able also to admonish one another.” (NKJV)

Following Paul’s example, we should affirm the giftedness and values of other’s in the body of Christ while serving the Lord in line with our gifts and calling, giving Him the glory for any results. Paul affirms the brethren’s goodness and their knowledge of God.

THE MANDATE OF PAUL’S MINISTRY - Verses 15-17
“15 Nevertheless, brethren, I have written more boldly to you on some points, as reminding you, because of the grace given to me by God, 16 that I might be a minister of Jesus Christ to the Gentiles, ministering the gospel of God, that the offering of the Gentiles might be acceptable, sanctified by the Holy Spirit. 17 Therefore I have reason to glory in Christ Jesus in the things which pertain to God.” (NKJV)

Paul discusses his ministry to the Gentiles always with a conscious awareness of the call of God. He didn’t just decide that the gospel ministry was a good career choice, he was sovereignly called out by God to be an apostle. Paul explains his boldness in writing to the Romans by appealing to this call in verses 15-19. This is a reference to God’s declaration to Ananias after his dramatic conversion on the road to Damascus. In Acts 9:15, God tells Ananias that Paul is “a chosen vessel of Mine to bear My name before Gentiles, kings, and the children of Israel.” Paul consistently appeals to his call in defending his apostolic ministry (See Galatians 1:15-17 and Ephesians 3:1-8). In verse 16, Paul describes his ministry among the Gentiles as a priestly ministry.

Relevance:
•God is still calling men to proclaim His gospel. We must distinguish between the call which Paul received and which pastors, preachers, missionaries, etc. receive today. God is still calling men into the gospel ministry to proclaim the teachings of the apostles!

•How does God call a man? First, there is the internal call of God. This is what Paul refers to in1 Tim. 3:1 when he says “If a man desires the position of a bishop, he desires a good work.”This godly desire is partial evidence of God’s call in a man’s life and essential to gospelministry. This is not to be a desire for power, position or prosperity, but a desire to preach, teachand shepherd God’s flock. Second, there is the external call which includes the confirmation ofothers. This is evident when other Christians recognize that your life and desire comparesfavorably with the Bible’s teaching about what a minister of the gospel should be. This is alsoevident when given opportunities to minister and God’s people seem to be helped by Godthrough your ministry.

•Finally, we must recognize that every believer has been called to proclaim the gospel of Christ.Paul’s reference to “the grace given” to him by God as a called apostle recalls Paul’s owndescription of all believers in Rom.12:3-8. Each of us have been called by God into a specificministry that we need to be fulfilling. Paul states that each believer has been called to proclaimthe gospel as an ambassador of Christ in 2 Corinthians 5:17-21
This is the mandate that each of us has received and it is the foundation for biblical ministry. We are ambassadors! We don’t get to invent the message, but we must proclaim the message that we have been given! But what is this message?

THE MESSAGE OF PAUL’S MINISTRY - Verses  18-19

“15 Nevertheless, brethren, I have written more boldly to you on some points, as reminding you, because of the grace given to me by God, 16 that I might be a minister of Jesus Christ to the Gentiles, ministering the gospel of God, that the offering of the Gentiles might be acceptable, sanctified by the Holy Spirit. 17 Therefore I have reason to glory in Christ Jesus in the things which pertain to God.” (NKJV)

What was it that the apostle Paul was called to proclaim? He refers to it in verses 16, 19 and 20. It is the gospel! Note how everything that Christ has accomplished through Paul is for the purpose of the proclamation of the “gospel of Christ” in verses 18-19. All signs and wonders by the power of the Spirit were not an end in themselves, but rather served to magnify and verify the message of the gospel! What was the gospel message which Paul proclaimed? Paul outlines for us the message that he had proclaimed in Corinth in 1 Cor.15:1-5 (Read) The message of Paul’s ministry was nothing less than the gospel of Jesus Christ and this is also our message. This is the heart of Christian ministry. Without this message, there is no ministry, indeed there is no Christianity! But what motivated the apostle Paul to proclaim this message?

THE MOTIVE OF PAUL’S MINISTRY - Verses 20-21
“20 And so I have made it my aim to preach the gospel, not where Christ was named, lest I should build on another man’s foundation, 21 but as it is written: “To whom He was not announced, they shall see; And those who have not heard shall understand.” (NKJV)

Paul’s motivation to preach the gospel is found in verses 20-21. His desire, aim, goal is to proclaim Christ where He has not yet been named. He is motivated by an understanding of the condition of those who have not heard that he described earlier in Romans 10:14,
“How then shall they call on Him in whom they have not believed? And how shall they believe in Him of whom they have not heard? And how shall they hear without a preacher?”

But Paul’s motivation for proclaiming the gospel to those who have not heard is thoroughly biblical as demonstrated by his quotation from Isaiah 52:15 in verse 21. This verse fits with Paul’s emphasis in this passage of showing the importance of taking the gospel message to those “to whom He was not announced” and “those who have not heard”. Paul knows that there are people all over the world for whom Christ has died who have not yet heard the message of Jesus Christ. This motivates Paul!

Relevance:
This is what should be our motivation as well. Yes, we should be motivated by the lostness of mankind and the horrors of hell, but ultimately we should be motivated by a desire to see Christ praised by all peoples for the eternal glory of God.

KEYS TO FRUITFUL SERVICE (Verses 22 - 33)

We will consider some of the reasons for (keys to) Paul’s fruitful ministry in the concluding verses of this chapter.
A. FLEXIBLE PLANNING IS A KEY TO FRUITFUL SERVICE – Verses 22 - 24
“22 For this reason I also have been much hindered from coming to you. 23 But now no longer having a place in these parts, and having a great desire these many years to come to you, 24 whenever I journey to Spain, I shall come to you. For I hope to see you on my journey, and to be helped on my way there by you, if first I may enjoy your company for a while.” (NKJV)

In verses 20 and 21, Paul mentioned his firm commitment to Pioneer missions: his resolve to preach the gospel in places where Christ has never been named. You see, it seems as though there are always new areas where the gospel had never been preached, and always that inner compulsion in the apostle Paul to go there and tell them about Jesus. And he says in verse 22 it's for this reason I've been much hindered from coming to you. You see the gospel had already been preached in Rome, and the church had already been established there, so getting to Rome was not one of his top priorities. They didn't need him there like some other parts of the world did. But now he plans to remedy that (verses 23-24), however, Rome was not his final destination. He planned visiting Spain also.
Paul always had a plan. He knew where he was going and why. He probably lived by that familiar adage, "To fail to plan is to plan to fail." He didn't want to fail in doing the job God called him to do, so he planned. That was one of the reasons he accomplished so much for God's glory.

B. FULFILLED PROMISES IS A KEY TO FRUITFUL SERVICE – Verses 25-29
“25 But now I am going to Jerusalem to minister to the saints. 26 For it pleased those from Macedonia and Achaia to make a certain contribution for the poor among the saints who are in Jerusalem. 27 It pleased them indeed, and they are their debtors. For if the Gentiles have been partakers of their spiritual things, their duty is also to minister to them in material things. 28 Therefore, when I have performed this and have sealed to them this fruit, I shall go by way of you to Spain. 29 But I know that when I come to you, I shall come in the fullness of the blessing of the gospel of Christ.” (NKJV)

There was something Paul had to do before he traveled to Rome (Romans 15:25-26). Collecting a gift from the Gentiles for the relief of poverty-stricken Jewish believers in Jerusalem was one of Paul's major concerns and one of his major projects (refer to 1 Cor.16:1-4; 2 Cor.8:1-4). There were several reasons for that.

• The church in Jerusalem was desperately poor. Famine had taken its toll on the people. And besides that, the Jewish religious leaders were doing everything in their power to oppress the Christians, even denying them employment whenever they could.

• Another reason for Paul's concern is found in that word contribution (verse 26): "a certain contribution for the poor among the saints." It is actually the word koinonia, meaning "fellowship" or "partnership." That's what he calls an offering: a partnership.

• A third reason for Paul's concern is described in Romans 15:27. Believers in Jerusalem had shared the gospel with the Gentiles, the wonderful news of forgiveness and life in Jesus Christ. Now the least the Gentiles could do was minister to the physical needs of their Jewish brothers and sisters who were suffering so much and who had so little. Paul saw it as a debt they owed. But it was more than just a debt, it was actually a promise he had made on a previous trip to Jerusalem, when Paul met with James and Peter and John (Gal. 2:10). And Paul was not one to go back on his word. He did what he said he would do. When he made a commitment, he followed through and kept his promise. It was one of the reasons why he accomplished so much for the glory of God and had so much joy and blessing in ministry (Verses 28-29).

C. FAITHFUL PRAYER IS A KEY TO FRUITFUL SERVICE – Verses 30-33
“30 Now I beg you, brethren, through the Lord Jesus Christ, and through the love of the Spirit, that you strive together with me in prayers to God for me, 31 that I may be delivered from those in Judea who do not believe, and that my service for Jerusalem may be acceptable to the saints, 32 that I may come to you with joy by the will of God, and may be refreshed together with you. 33 Now the God of peace be with you all. Amen." (NKJV)

Everything of eternal value that we are ever privileged to accomplish is accomplished by God's power working through us in answer to somebody's prayer: our own or somebody else's, or both. And that is why Paul pleads with the Romans to pray for him (Verse 30).
Don't miss that word strive. There is a conflict raging between the forces of good and the forces of evil, and the battle can only be won through prayer. We shall never enjoy success in our spiritual service and the joy it brings apart from prayer. So let's pray for one another. It is so vitally essential. So what were Paul’s prayer requests?

• That he would be delivered from the unbelievers in Judea. That was an important request. The unbelieving Jews in Judea and Jerusalem hated the Apostle Paul and they wanted to see him dead.

• That his service would be received by the believers in Jerusalem. Many of the Jewish Christians resented him for not insisting that his Gentile converts follow the whole Jewish law. Some of them even considered him a traitor to his nation for directing his primary ministry to Gentiles.

• That with the first two prayers answered, he might head for Rome in the will of God, filled with joy, where he hoped to find spiritual refreshment in fellowship with the Roman Christians in preparation for his evangelistic thrust into Spain.
So what is it you have been praying for?

This study is culled from https://pastorhistorian.com/2006/04/24/a-biblical-model-for-ministry-exposition-of-romans-1514-33/; http://spiritualgold.org/transcripts/ROM-35.html

Contributor: Alex Alajiki

INTRODUCTION
In our last lesson, Apostle Paul admonished the matured believers not to be an instrument of stumbling to others. Rom.14:15 “If your brother or sister is offended because you insist on eating what you want, it is no longer love that rules your conduct. Why would you wound someone for whom the Messiah gave his life, just so you can eat what you want?”
Within our liberty in Christ, our top priority should be to live a life of peace and harmony with other believers. We will always be mindful of others when our hearts are rooted and grounded in the love of God.
In Chapter 15, Paul continues his encouragement for strong believers to shoulder the burden of the weak and doubtful believers in order to assist their growth.

1) Bearing Others’ Burdens; Verses 1-2
“We who are strong ought to bear with the failings of the weak, and not to please ourselves. Each of us should please his neighbor for his good, to build him up.”

Generally, adults care for their immature offspring. Healthy people care for sick people. People with abundant goods should help those in destitution. Christians should teach and encourage non-Christians, etc. Likewise, those in the church who are stronger and more mature should make allowances for and assist those who are weak. Instead of doing what pleases ourselves (verse 1), we should seek to please others. This is the true spirit of love and unselfishness according to 1Cor.13:4-7. However, Paul defines what he means by pleasing our neighbour. It does not mean doing just whatever other people want us to do to satisfy their own indulgences regardless of God’s will. It means doing what is “good” for everyone involved, edifying them. But good is defined by God’s word (2 Timothy 3:16,17), and that which is edifying is determined by God’s will (1 John 5:2,3)

Vs 2; Choose to please your neighbour rather than yourself, however, be careful that your giving in does not allow your neighbour to be confirmed in his weakness, that you do not leave him without encouragement to grow. We are to seek to build one another up.

2) Christ left us an example; Verses 3-4
“For even Christ did not please himself but, as it is written: "The insults of those who insult you have fallen on me." For everything that was written in the past was written to teach us that through endurance and the encouragement of the Scripture, we might have hope”

Paul's first example for us is Jesus himself. He did not please Himself but worked for the good and edification of others. He did exactly what verses 1, 2 require of us. He sacrificed Himself for our wellbeing at great cost to Himself (2 Cor. 8:9; Phil. 2:6-8). He quoted David in Ps.69:9.

Vs 4; Paul here affirms that the old testament law does have a proper use. The Scriptures were in fact written for our learning. They educate us in things we need to know. They were written, not just for Jews before Jesus’ death, but for Christians also. We need to study and appreciate useful lessons from them (1 Cor. 10:1-13).

3) Our harmony glorifies God; Verses 5-7
“May the God who gives endurance and encouragement give you a spirit of unity among yourselves as you follow Christ Jesus, so that with one heart and mouth you may glorify the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ. 7 So, receive one another even as Christ received you to the glory of God.”

The prayer of Paul here is for God to grant both patience and comfort through the word (verse 4), so that these blessings from God might lead to like-mindedness or unity among God’s people according to Christ prayer in John 17:20-23.
Paul seeks to promote unity among God’s people, especially among Jews and Gentiles who were now worshiping God together as Christians. These groups naturally had significant differences in their backgrounds. Our unity in Christ, despite our differences will lead to God’s glory

Vs 7; Division has never been pleasing to God and we must not condone, excuse, justify, or overlook it. We must defeat it by following His will. Nothing here or elsewhere teaches we should compromise truth for the sake of unity.
The Jews held the Gentiles in contempt; they called them dogs. They would have nothing to do with them. The Jews even regarded it as sinful to go into a Gentile's house and they would never dream of eating with a Gentile. They regarded them with utter contempt. The gentiles hated the Jews. They called them all kinds of names; they looked down on them. This is where modern anti-Semitism was born Paul emphases the importance of receiving one another even as Christ received us.

4) The union of Jews and Gentiles in Christ; Verses 8-12

“Christ had become a servant to the circumcision on behalf of the truth to confirm the promises given to the fathers. 9 Gentiles might glorify God as written. I will praise you among the Gentiles and sing to Your name. 10 Rejoice, Gentiles, with His people. 11 Praise the Lord, all Gentiles. 12 And, the root of Jesse will arise to rule over Gentiles, and they will hope in Him.”

Christ became a servant to the circumcision in that He was the seed through whom the promise made to the fathers was fulfilled: He was the “blessing on all nations” (Gala. 3:16). This promise to the fathers was to be fulfilled through Abraham’s seed. Circumcision was a sign of this covenant.
In accordance with the principle of verse 4 – that the law is for our learning – Paul began quoting some Old Testament passages that confirmed his teaching that the Gentiles could receive the blessings of the gospel as well as the Jews. This had been prophesied in many passages, but the Jews had overlooked them or refused to accept them. Some of these passages make the point indirectly and inferences are needed, yet they all show that God’s message would go to the Gentiles. The Jews should not be surprised when Gentiles accepted the Messiah, for their own Scriptures had predicted it. Ps.18:49, 2 Sam. 22:50)

Conclusion. Verse 13
“Now may the God of hope fill you with all joy and peace in believing, that you may abound in hope by the power of the Holy Spirit.”

Paul is drawing his instructions to a conclusion. He expresses his hope that believers will receive from God the joy and peace that this faith (believing) in Jesus is designed to give, and that they may receive abundant hope by the power of the Holy Spirit. Joy, peace, and hope are fruits of the Spirit (Gal. 5:22- 24). These fruits come by allowing the power of the Spirit’s message (the gospel) to work in our lives. One who has a true faith in Jesus and has received forgiveness by Jesus’ blood, will have the joy of knowing his sins have been forgiven, the peace of a right relationship with God, and the hope of eternal life.
 

Contributor: Isekhua Evborokhai

INTRODUCTION: The Apostle Paul has a knack for bursting people’s bubbles! Just imagine how the first 12 verses of this chapter would have “encouraged” both “sides” to continue with what they had been engaged in because they had been admonished not to judge or look down on one another; and then in today’s study he issues out instructions for the “mature”; and we come to discover that maturity is characterized by letting go of our liberties for the growth and conscience of fellow believers. Today’s study looks at three actions for the mature as spelt out by the Apostle. If you are mature . . . 

1. Don’t Cause a Fellow Believer to Stumble (Verse 13)

“13 So stop being critical and condemning of other believers, but instead determine to never deliberately cause a brother or sister to stumble and fall because of your actions.”

It is very interesting that the Bible never says, "Do not do something," without suggesting a positive action to take its place. It does not merely say, "do not be critical"; it goes ahead to say, instead of pushing liberty so hard, and insisting on your rights in certain matters, and your freedom to indulge in something; make the determination not to put an obstacle or a stumbling block or a source of temptation in another believer’s way.” In other words, consider what the effect of your attitudes and actions have on others and not just your personal satisfaction.

2. Don’t Grieve Your Brother (Verse 14-15)

“14 I know and am convinced by personal revelation from the Lord Jesus that there is nothing wrong with eating any food. But to the one who considers it to be unclean, it is unacceptable. 15 If your brother or sister is offended because you insist on eating what you want, it is no longer love that rules your conduct. Why would you wound someone for whom the Messiah gave his life, just so you can eat what you want?”

There is nothing wrong if you have the freedom to partake of something that others are not free to indulge in. And, like the apostle, you may have arrived at that by some direct teaching of Scripture, or even as Paul did in the case of the Lord Jesus himself revealing it to you. But we must leave allowance for others if they regard something as unclean, because for them it is unclean. It is a known fact that people's consciences grow at different rates, therefore, we are to adjust to one another's needs along this line.  Apostle Paul also reminds us that we will not be walking in love if we “force” people to move at our pace. To refuse to indulge a freedom that you have for the sake of someone else, to adjust to their pace, is surely one of the clearest and truest exercises of Christian love. Is this hypocrisy? Discuss

3. Seek Unity (Verses 16-19)

“16 So don’t give people the opportunity to slander what you know to be good. 17 For the kingdom of God is not a matter of rules about food and drink, but is in the realm of the Holy Spirit, filled with righteousness, peace, and joy. 18 Serving the Anointed One by walking in these kingdom realities pleases God and earns the respect of others. 19 So then, make it your top priority to live a life of peace with harmony in your relationships, eagerly seeking to strengthen and encourage one another.”

To have an understanding of the freedom by which Christ set us free is a good thing. But it will very quickly become something spoken of as evil if we create division by arguing so hard for these rights, or freedom, or by flaunting our liberty in the face of those who do not agree with it, you will be setting an obstacle or trap to make them stumble. You will also be portraying your faith in the wrong light in the sight of an unbeliever when all they see are quarrels and squabbles among believers.

The main point of the Christian faith is not eating or drinking or any other item that pulls us apart. The kingdom of God is not about exercising our liberties; but it is righteousness and peace and joy in the Holy Spirit. They are gifts of God; they do not come from you; they come from Him. And that is what the world must see in us; not wrangling and disputing and fighting over opinions. Let’s consider these gifts.

Righteousness: The righteousness inputted to us by Christ. It is God's gift of a sense of worth about yourself. It tells us that we are loved by Him; accepted by Him; and that we are valuable people in His sight.

Peace: It is that quiet and calm assurance that God is present in the situation; that He will work it out for His glory, and therefore, we need not get upset or angry, or vindictive.

Joy: Joy is that delight in life that always finds life worthwhile, even though it may be filled with problems. Joy, in a Christian, does not come from circumstances.

Paul offers these guidelines: We can enjoy our liberties, indulge them wherever we desire, but we must make sure we make it our top priority to live a life of peace with harmony in our relationships, while eagerly seeking to strengthen and encourage one another.

Conclusion Verses 20-23

“20 Stop ruining the work of God by insisting on your own opinions about food. You can eat anything you want, but it is wrong to deliberately cause someone to be offended over what you eat. 21 Consider it an act of love to refrain from eating meat or drinking wine or doing anything else that would cause a fellow believer to be offended or tempted to be weakened in his faith. 22 Keep the convictions you have about these matters between yourself and God, and don’t impose them upon others. You’ll be happy when you don’t judge yourself in doing what your conscience approves. 23 But the one who has misgivings feels miserable if he eats meat, because he doubts and doesn’t eat in faith. For anything we do that doesn’t spring from faith is, by definition, sinful.”

The Apostle submits the ultimate conclusion to this chapter. First, he said in Vs 20 that insisting on one’s own opinions destroys the work of God. The one who truly loves will exercise restraint to protect a fellow believer (Vs 21). And in verse 22 Paul goes further to say: "Keep the convictions you have about these matters between yourself and God, and don’t impose them upon others."

Be sure that what you are doing is not because of pride on your part, because you want to show off how free you are -- you are doing this because God has freed you by His Word. If you have really based it on that, then your action will be one in which your conscience is free. You will not feel guilty and troubled as to whether you are acting beyond what the Word of God really says. You will be happy, free, and blessed. But, if you do not, if you really have not settled this on the basis of Scripture, but are acting only because you want to indulge yourself; or if you still feel a bit troubled by it; and still go ahead, then you are going to be condemned by your conscience. And if you are condemned by your conscience, you will feel guilty. It will no longer be acting out of faith, and therefore, you will be sinning. (Vs 23).

On a final note, those who are “mature” should bear the burden of refraining from enjoying their liberties for the sake of the “immature” believer. Are you mature or immature?

Parts of this study was culled from:

https://www.raystedman.org/new-testament/romans/the-right-to-yield

Contributor: Isekhua Evborokhai

INTRODUCTION

One author refers to this chapter as the favourite indoor sport of Christians, that is, trying to change each other. One of the struggles many of us have as Christians is truly accepting those whose views differ from ours! And if we dig deep within, we will discover that it is because an aspect of love (that must be patient and tolerant of other people's views- 1 Cor. 13:4, Col. 3:13) has not been completely formed in us. This is in relation to areas that are “disputable or debatable” (things which are not clearly spelled out in Scripture). All through the history of the church, the problem arises from the attitude that most of us share today, “I am sure, that God is clearly pleased with the way we live; but there are “those others” around. They drink beer and play cards; they go to movies; their ladies wear trousers; they work on Sundays; they wear lipstick; they cover their hair, they don’t cover their hair, they dance; they play musical instruments; they use zippers instead of buttons.” There is an endless list of things that can be included, debatable matters that the church has never been able to settle because of a misunderstanding of the principles that are set forth here in this very passage. But the call to all of us today is to pause and think about this for a moment and then listen to what Paul says to do about it.

1. DON’T JUDGE YOUR BRETHREN, FOR GOD HAS ACCEPTED THEM! (VS 1-4)

Verse 1: “Accept him whose faith is weak, without passing judgment on disputable matters”

In this context, “weak in faith” does not mean not believing in Christ. Instead, Paul is talking about the person whose faith in Christ requires certain additions; like the observance of dietary restrictions or other rules. Such a person could be weak in the faith either because he/she has not yet discovered the meaning of Christian freedom; they see Christianity as a thing of rules and regulations and observation of laws; and are indeed frightened of Christian freedom and Christian liberty. Or he/she has not yet liberated himself/herself from a belief in the efficacy of works. They believe they can gain God's favour by doing certain things and abstaining from doing others.

What Paul is saying is, do not reject them; do not ignore them; do not treat them as second-class citizens. Accept them, but don’t have a hidden agenda. Not for the purpose of arguing with them; accepting them means that regardless of where you may struggle with someone and about what you may struggle, you must realize that they are brothers and sisters in the family of God. You did not make them part of the family; the Lord did.

Verse 2 “One man's faith allows him to eat everything, but another man, whose faith is weak, eats only vegetables.”

The backdrop to this was the fact that there were Jewish restrictions against certain forms of meat (Jews did not eat pork, and even beef and lamb had to be kosher that had to be slain in a certain way.) So, because it was quite difficult to find meat prepared in that specific way, they chose rather to eat vegetables. Especially seeing that in Rome and in other pagan Greek and Roman colonies; one could hardly tell which meat had been offered to idols. So there was a real problem in the church.

As in every area of this type, there were two viewpoints. The liberal, broad viewpoint that said there was no problem eating meat bought from the market, and a stricter, narrower viewpoint that said it was wrong to do this. It really does not make any difference what you are arguing about if it is in this area that is debatable (things which are not clearly spelled out in Scripture) you always get this two-fold division. Let us be very clear that there are areas that Scripture speaks about that are not debatable at all. For instance, it is always wrong to be drunk (Galatians 5:21, Eph.5:18, Rom.13:13). It is always wrong to commit adultery or fornication (Exo.20:14, Matt 15:19–20), etc. These things are clearly wrong. In both the Old and New Testaments, God has spoken, and He has judged, in these areas. Christians are exhorted to rebuke and exhort and reprove one another, and, if necessary, even discipline one another according to patterns set out in the Scriptures. (I Cor. 5, 1Thess 5:14, Rom.16:17). This is not judging each other in those areas. The Word of God has judged; it has already pronounced what is wrong.

Verse 3: “The man who eats everything must not look down on him who does not, the man who does not eat everything must not condemn the man who does, for God has accepted him.”

The phrase “look down” here really means "push out." Those who have accepted their liberty and believe that to the pure everything is pure (Titus 1:15) should not push the others out; they must not exclude them. Here is the other side of it. Those who have decided to hold back must not look down on those who have freedom in these areas. They must not judge or condemn them. The word condemn means "to sit in judgment" on them and it involves criticizing or censoring them. We are not to go up to them and tell them, "I do not see how you can be a Christian and do things like that." They could very well turn around and say the exact same to you!  

Verse 4 “Who are you to judge someone else's servant? To his own master he stands or falls. And he will stand, for the Lord is able to make him stand.” 

Paul continues in this verse surmising these first four verses by telling us why we must not look down on, or judge or condemn another. Firstly, it is because it is not your responsibility to change your brother or sister in this area of differences in opinions and preferences. We have no responsibility to change each other and no authority to do so. Paul says “He or she is not your servant.” The Lord chose them without asking for your permission. The Lord, then, is the one responsible to change them. Paul says the person will stand; this means that they will be straightened out if they are wrong in this area. God will straighten them out Himself and it is not up to you to do it. The TPT version says: “His own master is the one to evaluate whether he succeeds or fails. “And God’s servants will succeed, for God’s power supports them and enables them to stand.” 

2. DON’T JUDGE YOUR BRETHREN, FOR GOD IS PRAISED BY THEM! (VS 5-8)

Verses 5-6: “One man considers one day more sacred than another; another man considers every day alike. Each one should be fully convinced in his own mind. He who regards one day as special, does so to the Lord. He who eats meat, eats to the Lord, for he gives thanks to God; and he who abstains, does so to the Lord, and gives thanks to God.” 

Paul reminds us that God can read hearts and we cannot. These distinctions and differences of viewpoint arise out of honest conviction which God sees, even though you cannot. They are acting on the basis of what they feel is right, so give them the benefit of the doubt on that. Believe that they intend on being real before God and true to Him as you are. Remember that they really feel that God would be displeased if they did certain things or did not do certain things; it is an honest conviction. The apostle makes clear here that every man should have that kind of a conviction. "Let every man be fully persuaded in his own heart,"

Do not just act from tradition, because you were brought up that way or because you just feel it is right. Find some reason in the Scripture for it. Seek justification out of the Word of God. You may change your mind as your understanding of truth develops, but at least let it be on the ground of a conviction of the heart and of the mind.

The next thing Paul says is that God sees both of these categories of people and both of these viewpoints as honouring Him. The one who thinks Sunday is a special day that ought to be kept different from all other days is doing so as unto the Lord, therefore honour that, respect that viewpoint. The one who says, "No. When we are in Christ, days do not mean anything. They are not set aside for any special purpose. Therefore, I feel every day is alike, and I want to honour the Lord on every day." Okay, do not feel upset at that. He is doing so out of a deep conviction of his heart.

It is a question of what the heart is doing in the eyes of God and not ours.

This is the same criteria which Paul uses to settle a slightly different issue in Corinth which also centred on appropriate food and drink. There Paul declared in 1 Corinthians 10:31, “Therefore, whether you eat or drink, or whatever you do, do all to the glory of God.” 

VERSES 7-8 “For none of us lives to himself alone and none of us dies to himself alone. If we live, we live to the Lord; and if we die, we die to the Lord. So, whether we live or die, we belong to the Lord.” 

The last thing Paul says in this area is that our relationship with one another is more important than our life style. We live our lives in relationship to other people; what we say or do affects them, and what they say or do affects us. It is therefore vitally important for us to respect our interdependence and not look down on or judge each other. In verse 8 Paul says whether we live or whether we die, that is not the important thing. The important thing is that we belong to the Lord. Paul expressed a similar sentiment in his letter to the Philippians: “For to me to live is Christ, and to die is gain” (Philippians 1:21). In both life and death, we belong to the Lord. Life gives us opportunity to serve the Lord, and death will bring us home to the Lord. We therefore must remember this in our relationships with one another. We belong to the Lord. We are brothers and sisters. We are not servants of each other. We are servants of the Lord and He has the right to change us. 

3. DON’T JUDGE YOUR BRETHREN, FOR GOD WILL JUDGE THEM (AND YOU)! (VS 9-12)

VERSES 9-12 “For this very reason, Christ died and returned to life so that he might be the Lord of both the dead and the living. You, then, why do you judge your brother? Or why do you look down on your brother? For we will all stand before God's judgment seat. It is written: "'As I live,' says the Lord, 'Every knee will bow before me; every tongue will confess to God.'" So then, each of us will give an account of himself to God.”

Here, Paul says, "Stop trying to be Christ to the rest of the church or playing God to each other. You, the weak, why do you judge your brother? And you, the strong, why do you look down on your brother? It is wrong. You are trying to take Christ's place when you do that. But remember that all of us, men and women alike, all brothers and sisters together, must individually stand before God's judgment seat." 1 Corinthians 4:5 says, "The Lord returns and brings to light all the hidden things of the heart," All the things that we thought nobody ever saw will be brought out to the light. We must then give an account to the Lord.

CONCLUSION

In today’s study, we see the apostle Paul laying down three important reasons not to judge each other in “disputable matters”. We should not judge others because God has accepted them, God is praised by them and God will judge them and you! What Paul teaches here is that these differences in lifestyle, opinions, preferences and perceptions were the attitudes that were dividing the church. Paul's commands toward both groups make it pretty clear that the "strong" were despising the "weak," while the "weak" were judging or condemning the "strong." All of which was centred around behaviours not explicitly prohibited or commanded by scripture. They lie in a moral zone where each person must exercise conscience to decide how to proceed. Differences in how we follow our consciences always have the potential to threaten our fellowship as believers in Christ. So we must be careful; because in the bid of trying to change each other, we end up despising and judging one another. The footnote in the TPT version of verse 4a says: “We are all “household servants” in the body of Christ, for we each belong to him. When believers begin to judge other believers over our opinions or preferences, we are taking the role that belongs only to Jesus.”

As believers we mostly have agreement on basic principles, where we have disagreements is in the application of those principles. Let us therefore channel our energies to the things that unite us instead of the things that tear us apart!

Parts of this study was culled from:

https://pastorhistorian.com/2006/03/27/do-not-judge-your-brother-exposition-of-romans-141-12/
https://www.raystedman.org/new-testament/romans/on-trying-to-change-others

Contributor: Clem Roberts

Introduction:

In Summary of last week study we learnt that the scripture admonishes us to obey the rule of law that is constituted in the land.  We also, established the fact that God allowed them to be in position does mean that he created them the way they may eventually turn out. We learnt that being subject to the government because it is for our good, and it is the right thing to do.  It was reiterated that vengeance is of God and not ours, even in situations where we the wicked is in authority.  It was stressed that it is much better to love than hate or curse.

In today’s study, Apostle Paul is making a serious appeal to believers.  The world we live in this present times always want to emphasize how knowledgeable and enlightened they are and at the same time neglecting and relegating the instructions and the Word of God.  We can see from the entire book of Romans based on our study so far that it is Paul’s desire to the Romans, believers and all humans to live according to the dictates of the Almighty God.

Verses 11-14

“11 And do this, understanding the present time: The hour has already come for you to wake up from your slumber, because our salvation is nearer now than when we first believed. 12 The night is nearly over; the day is almost here. So let us put aside the deeds of darkness and put on the armour of light. 13 Let us behave decently, as in the daytime, not in carousing and drunkenness, not in sexual immorality and debauchery, not in dissension and jealousy. 14 Rather, clothe yourselves with the Lord Jesus Christ, and do not think about how to gratify the desires of the flesh.” NIV 

1.  Understanding the present time: The hour has already come for you to wake up from your slumber (Don’t doze off or go into a deep sleep) because our salvation is nearer now than when we first believed.  

2. The night is nearly over; the day is almost here. So let us put aside the deeds of darkness
   • Have nothing to do with the fruitless deeds of darkness, but rather expose them.
3. Put on the armour of light.

• Galatians 3:27 tells us "For as many of you as were baptized into Christ have put on Christ."
• A quick look and study of Ephesians 6:10 – 18 gives more understanding of Paul’s appeal in this verse of scripture. 

4. Let us behave decently, as in the daytime, not in carousing and drunkenness, where your live is ruled, characterised and governed by lively and noisy festivities, especially involving drinking and dancing.
5. Avoid sexual immorality and debauchery,
   • Do not get involved in extreme indulgence in bodily pleasures and especially sexual pleasures: or behaviour involving sex, drugs, alcohol, etc. that is often considered immoral.

6. Avoid dissension and jealousy.

• disagreement that leads to discord.
• feeling or showing an envious resentment of someone or their achievements, possessions, or perceived advantages.

7.  Let’s clothe ourselves with the Lord Jesus Christ, and do not think about how to gratify the desires of the flesh.
   • do not give pleasure or satisfaction to the cravings of the flesh

In summary - How can we achieve this?

1. Taking every thought captive - 2 Corinthians 10:5
2. Be transformed - Romans 12:2
3. Be renewed – Romans 12: 2

Contributor: Isekhua Evborokhai

INTRODUCTION

Paul wrote the book of Romans to Christians, some of whom were Jews, in the capital of the Roman Empire. Claudius, the previous emperor, had expelled the Jews from Rome a few years before because he viewed them as dangerous (Acts 18:2). The Jews hated being under Roman rule. This is similar to the unrest we are experiencing in many countries of the world today. So Paul wanted the Roman Christians to be clear on how they should relate to the civil government. The same applies to us today.

1. Since God has ordained government authority, we must be subject to it (Verses 1-2).

“Every person is to be in subjection to the governing authorities. For there is no authority except from God, and those which exist are established by God. Therefore, whoever resists authority has opposed the ordinance of God; and they who have opposed will receive condemnation upon themselves.” (NASB)

Paul first lays down a general principle (Vs. 1a), “Every person is to be in subjection to the governing authorities.” Then (Vs. 1b) he explains the reason behind this principle: “For there is no authority except from God, and those which exist are established by God.” He follows this in Vs.2 with a logical conclusion: “Therefore whoever resists authority has opposed the ordinance of God; and they who have opposed will receive condemnation upon themselves.”

God has ordained various spheres of authority for the blessing and protection of those under authority: the government, the local church, the family, etc. But due to sin, those in authority are often prone to misuse their authority for their own benefit. But Paul, writing under wicked Nero, does not allow for exceptions. He states categorically (13:1b), “For there is no authority except from God, and those which exist are established by God.” Therefore, every person is to be subject to their civil government.

When Paul says (13:2) that those who disobey government authority “will receive condemnation upon themselves,” he was primarily referring to the judgment that the government brings on law-breakers. In verse 4 he says that the government “bears the sword,” which refers to the authority to punish law-breakers. He also calls it “an avenger who brings wrath on the one who practices evil.” These expressions do not refer to God’s eternal wrath, but to a temporal wrath inflicted by the government on evildoers so that it can uphold law and order.

Having said that, when a government commands us to do something that is disobedient to God’s Word, we must resist the government and obey God instead. (Acts 4:19-20, 5:29) “We must obey God rather than men.” Shadrach, Meshach, and Abednego refused to bow before Nebuchadnezzar’s idol (Dan.3). In defiance of the king’s edict, Daniel continued to pray (Dan. 6). If the government forces us to abort babies as population control, we should resist. If a government forbids us to gather as believers, we should gather anyway. If the government bans the Bible, we should own and distribute Bibles anyway. If the government commands us not to say anything against homosexual behaviour, we should teach what the Bible says anyway.

2. The Government is to protect law-abiding citizens and punish law-breakers (Verses 3-4).

“For rulers are not a cause of fear for good behaviour, but for evil. Do you want to have no fear of authority? Do what is good and you will have praise from the same; for it is a minister of God to you for good. But if you do what is evil, be afraid; for it does not bear the sword for nothing; for it is a minister of God, an avenger who brings wrath on the one who practices evil.” (NASB)

In these verses, Paul presents the general purpose and practice of government: to protect those who do right and to punish those who do wrong. We cannot deny that there have been many exceptions throughout history where corrupt governments punish law-abiding citizens who speak out against the corruption and they reward scoundrels who help keep them in power.

If God’s purpose for civil governments is to protect law-abiding citizens and punish law-breakers, then it follows that we should use civil authorities for protection and due process. Paul himself did this in Philippi, where he was unjustly beaten and imprisoned without a trial, although he was a Roman citizen. When the authorities realized their error and wanted to quietly usher him out of town, Paul wouldn’t stand for it (Acts 16:35-40). He also invoked his Roman citizenship to avoid a scouring and to appeal to Caesar rather than face a kangaroo court (Acts 22:25; 25:11).

This means that if someone is physically or sexually abusing you, you should report it to the proper authorities. If your husband is physically abusive, if he is a church member, let the elders know so that we can implement church discipline; otherwise, call the police. If you have been defrauded by a church member, first attempt to resolve the matter in the church (1 Cor. 6:1-8). If it can’t be resolved, you may have to take your case to secular courts. The purpose of government is to protect law-abiding people and punish evildoers. The highest form of love will be to accept to be defrauded but be wise in the future

3. Be Subject to the government because it is for our good, and it is the right thing to do. (Vs 5)

“Therefore it is necessary to be in subjection, not only because of wrath, but also for conscience' sake.” (NASB)

Paul means that we should be subject to our government not only because we fear punishment if we break the law, but also because we fear God, who knows our hearts. This makes keeping the laws of our land not just a matter of outward compliance, but also of inward obedience to God. With outward compliance, you are honest on your income tax forms because you’re afraid that if you aren’t, you might get caught. With inward obedience, you are honest because you want to have a clear conscience before God

4. Paying taxes and respecting government officials is part of submission (Verses 6-7).

“For because of this you also pay taxes, for rulers are servants of God, devoting themselves to this very thing. Render to all what is due them: tax to whom tax is due; custom to whom custom; fear to whom fear; honour to whom honour.” (NASB)

For the third time Paul mentions that government officials are servants of God, but this time he uses a different word that is sometimes used for those who serve in the temple and also of angels (Heb. 1:7). By saying that they are “servants of God,” Paul wants us to see the importance of submitting to them, paying taxes, and giving them proper honour.

5. Practical Application in living right (Verses 8-10).

“Owe nothing to anyone except to love one another; for he who loves his neighbour has fulfilled the law. For this, "YOU SHALL NOT COMMIT ADULTERY, YOU SHALL NOT MURDER, YOU SHALL NOT STEAL, YOU SHALL NOT COVET," and if there is any other commandment, it is summed up in this saying, "YOU SHALL LOVE YOUR NEIGHBOR AS YOURSELF. Love does no wrong to a neighbour; therefore, love is the fulfilment of the law.” (NASB)

Interestingly, Paul starts off with debts in verse 8. “Owe no one anything” The MSG version says: “Don’t run up debts”

Debts create pressure and pressure is unhealthy. The Bible also warns against the dangers of debt. Proverbs 22:7 says, “The borrower becomes the lender’s slave.” Often debt reveals underlying greed that drives us to buy things that we can’t afford. Or it reveals that we love the world and the things that are in the world (1 John 2:15). The only debt we are allowed to run up is love. 1 Cor.13:4-7 tells the characteristics of this love.

In one of our previous studies, we emphasized that the secular moral laws of the world are mostly coined from the ten commandments. In verse 9, we see Paul while discussing being subject to governing authorities cites the ten commandments: “For the commandments, “You shall not commit adultery,” “You shall not murder,” “You shall not steal,” “You shall not bear false witness,” “You shall not covet,”

As Christians, loving others fulfils God’s law. Paul says this severally in these verses; (Vs. 8, “he who loves his neighbour has fulfilled the law”; (Vs. 9 “it is summed up,”) and a third time in Vs 10, “love is the fulfilment of the law”)

CONCLUSION

I have observed an amazing truth in how the Lord deals with us in relation to living by the Word and not just being hearers only. He always brings situations our way as a church or as individuals to practice what we preach or what we have heard. Last week we looked at 9 tasks that differentiate us; and in today’s study, we have been presented the opportunity to be different or behave like everyone else. Especially as it relates to the last week’s sad events.

Are we going to hate or love? Curse like the rest of the world or bless? Are we going to repay evil for evil, or overcome evil with good?

It is possible for people to think that we are experiencing a more difficult time than Paul’s time. By the time of Paul’s writing, Nero was the Roman emperor in rule. His reign was associated with tyranny, extravagance and debauchery. During his rule, he murdered his own mother, his first wife, and allegedly, his second wife. In addition, ancient writers claim that he started the great fire of Rome in A.D. 64 so that he could re-build the city centre. Hundreds of people died in the fire and many thousands were left homeless. He then blamed the devastation on the Christian community in the city, initiating the empire's first persecution against the Christians. Paul, writing under this wicked emperor, does not allow for exceptions. He states categorically in verse 1b “For there is no authority except from God, and those which exist are established by God.” Therefore, every person is to be subject to their civil government. Here is what he also told Timothy during the reign of Nero

“Therefore I exhort first of all that supplications, prayers, intercessions, and giving of thanks be made for all men, for kings and all who are in authority, that we may lead a quiet and peaceable life in all godliness and reverence.” 1 Timothy 2:1-2 (NKJV)

Parts of this study was culled from: https://bible.org/seriespage/lesson-88-government-and-you-romans-131-7

Contributor: Isekhua Evborokhai

INTRODUCTION

Romans 12:1-8 establishes the foundation upon which 12:9-21 is built. In verses 1-8, we saw Paul painting with a “broad brush”, showing us generally what Christian discipleship requires; offering our bodies as a living sacrifice, etc. In today’s study we will see him stepping closer to the canvas, working with a finer brush to colour in detail regarding specific attitudes and actions that must grow out of the principles established in verses 1-8.

PART 1 - VERSES 9-13:  THIRTEEN ESSENTIAL ATTITUDES/BEHAVIOURS

“9 Love is to be sincere and active [the real thing—without guile and hypocrisy]. Hate what is evil [detest all ungodliness, do not tolerate wickedness]; hold on tightly to what is good. 10 Be devoted to one another with [authentic] brotherly affection [as members of one family], give preference to one another in honour. 11 never lagging behind in diligence; aglow in the Spirit, enthusiastically serving the Lord; 12 constantly rejoicing in hope [because of our confidence in Christ], steadfast and patient in distress, devoted to prayer [continually seeking wisdom, guidance, and strength], 13 contributing to the needs of God’s people, pursuing [the practice of] hospitality.” AMP

In these five verses, Paul lists thirteen behaviours that the Christian should adopt. The list begins with love. Love sets the tone, and the other dozen desired behaviours grow out of love. They are as a matter of fact, natural expressions of love.

1. Exhibit Sincere and Active Love (Vs 9a). The NLT says “Don’t just pretend to love others. Really love them.” Paul refers to Agape - love without a selfish agenda—love that seeks what is good for the beloved.

2. Hate Evil (Vs 9b) Hate is a strong word meaning to dislike, to abhor, or to have a horror of. The proper Christian response to evil is not simply to avoid it, but to be repelled by it. We hate evil, because evil has the potential to destroy the beloved. We must hate the sin while loving the sinner; evil-hating is one of the ways that we demonstrate genuine-loving.

3. Hold Tightly (Cling) to Good (Vs 9c). What Paul is calling us to do here, is to have a very strong attachment, to glue ourselves, or connect ourselves to what is good. Just as tendons bind bone to muscle.

4. Be Devoted to Each Other (Vs 10a). Paul shifts from agape love to family love and brotherly love. Family love is special, because the family is special. Members of healthy families know each other’s weaknesses, but love each other anyway. When trouble looms, the family is a refuge and strength second only to God. The same should apply to the Body of Christ.

5. Prefer One Another (Vs 10b). Instead of wanting to outdo others in the sense that we win and they lose. So we can feel better about ourselves and have people admire us, Paul calls us to different kind of ambition-behaviour. He calls us to “be tenderly affectionate one to another in honor”—to focus on satisfying the other person’s need for approval. There are many ways to accomplish this: remembering birthdays, saying thanks, complimenting them, encouraging them to understand that they have important gifts, etc.

6. Make Diligence Your Watchword (Vs 11a). Never be lazy; instead be careful and persistent in your work. The AMP says: “never lagging behind in diligence” instead be in the forefront!

7. Be Zealous (Passionate) (Vs 11b). Paul admonishes us not to let our zeal subside. Whatever you are engaged in with the Lord, let it convey passion, enthusiasm and conviction.

8. Serve God Enthusiastically (Vs 11c). The Greek word used here speaks of slave-like service—service under bondage. As Christians, we serve under obligation.

9. Rejoice in Hope - constantly (v. 12a). Because of our confidence in Christ; not because of things (money, power, prestige) that, in the eyes of the world, should produce joy and hope because they don’t. They may provide “joy” that feeling of great pleasure and happiness but it fades quickly, leaving the individual feeling as restless and empty as ever. We find joy and hope in the assurance that our lives count, not just now, but also for eternity. (Titus 2:13) tells us what this hope is.

10. Be Steadfast and patient in distress” (v. 12b). Paul refers to Christians exhibiting tough endurance. To keep the faith, even though suffering. To bear our afflictions bravely.

11. Be devoted to prayer (v. 12c). The AMP adds: “continually seeking wisdom, guidance, and strength.” Prayer is one of the channels through which the Christian receives strength. First century Christians, suffering persecution, required constant prayer to gain the strength to keep the faith. So do we.

12. Contribute to the needs of God’s people (v. 13a). Don’t be an onlooker when it comes to meeting the needs of God’s people. Take a constant interest in their needs. (Acts 6:1; 2Cor. 8:13-14, Jas1:27)

13. Pursue [the practice of] hospitality (v. 13b). Paul is advocating that we actively look for opportunities to provide hospitality. To be pursue a thing implies we are invested in it.

PART 2 - VERSES 14-19: NINE ACTIONS THAT DIFFERENTIATES

“14 Bless those who persecute you [who cause you harm or hardship]; bless and do not curse [them]. 15 Rejoice with those who rejoice [sharing others’ joy], and weep with those who weep [sharing others’ grief]. 16 Live in harmony with one another; do not be haughty [conceited, self-important, exclusive], but associate with humble people [those with a realistic self-view]. Do not overestimate yourself. 17 Never repay anyone evil for evil. Take thought for what is right and gracious and proper in the sight of everyone. 18 If possible, as far as it depends on you, live at peace with everyone. 19 Beloved, never avenge yourselves, but leave the way open for God’s wrath [and His judicial righteousness]; for it is written [in Scripture], “Vengeance is Mine, I will repay,” says the Lord.” AMP

1. Bless Don’t Curse (Vs. 14) Paul calls us to meet violence, not with violence, but with blessing—a shocking idea, but not original with Paul: Jesus calls us to turn the other cheek, to go the second mile, to love our enemies and to pray for those who persecute us (Matthew 5:38-44). In the Lord’s prayer (Luke 6:37). At the cross. (Luke 23:34). Stephen (Acts 7:60), Paul in (1 Corinthians 4:12), and finally (1 Peter 3:9).

2. Identify with the Joys and Sorrows of Others (v. 15). We often observe people jealous of other people’s good fortune and judgmental about their bad fortune. We should be different!

3. Live in harmony with one another; (v. 16a) literally, “thinking the same thing toward one another.” While this does not require us to agree at every point, it does require us to be agreeable.

4. Be Humble (v. 16b). Be as mindful of another’s worth as you are your own. Remember you are what you are by God’s grace and not your effort. Rom 3:24

5. Do Not Overestimate Yourself (v. 16c). This is good advice for every human relationship. Humility draws people near, but conceit repels.

6. Never repay anyone evil for evil (v. 17a) is similar in meaning to “Bless those who persecute you; bless, and don’t curse” (v. 14).

7. Live Nobly in the Sight of All (v. 17b). We must be careful, not only about proper conduct, but also about appearances. Do things in such a way that everyone can see you are honourable. This is not eye service but preventing those who are weak in faith from stumbling. The more visible our position, the more careful we must be.

8. Live at Peace with Everyone (v. 18). Here, we see Paul inserting two qualifications for living at peace with everyone (a) “If possible” and (b) “as far as it depends on you”. There are, unfortunately, people who will not allow us to live in peace, and Paul says that we do our part to establish peaceful relationships.  He doesn’t hold us responsible for the other person’s response to our efforts.  We can’t control the other person; we can control only ourselves.

9. Don’t Seek Revenge (v. 19). Paul tells us not to seek vengeance (also see 14, 17). The reason is simple—we can trust God to do the right thing. If a person deserves punishment, God will take care of it, whether now or in the Day of Judgment. Seeking revenge is consuming! Leaving the matter in God’s hands solves a host of problems. For one thing, God is a perfect judge, and will not make a mistake. For another, God is in a position to insure that justice is served, whereas we might put ourselves in physical or legal jeopardy by seeking vengeance.

Verses 20-21 CONCLUSION 

““20 But if your enemy is hungry, feed him; if he is thirsty, give him a drink; for by doing this you will heap burning coals on his head.” 21 Do not be overcome and conquered by evil, but overcome evil with good.” AMP

When Paul tells us in verse 20 to feed and to give drink to our enemy, he was using food and drink as metaphors for any kind of needed help. If we were to see our enemy stuck in a ditch, this verse would call us to lend a helping hand, instead of saying “serves them right!” “You will heap burning coals on his head” implies you will make the recipient of your grace burn with shame at having treated you badly. Do not be overcome and conquered by evil, but overcome evil with good. (Vs 21). Does the end really justify the means?  This verse says that it doesn’t.  If we use evil means to achieve a worthwhile end, our evil means will compromise both our character and our witness.  If we are to accomplish what Christ has called us to do, we must accomplish it through the ultimate Christian virtue, love. That expresses itself in these attitudes and actions.