Pastor’s Thoughts – 04-26-2026

Scripture is not merely the words of men but are as the apostle Peter has stated; “No prophecy was ever made by an act of human will, but men moved by the Holy Spirit spoke from God” (2 Pet. 1:21). The supernatural truth of Scripture is seen anytime we open its pages. To carefully look at any passage with spiritual eyes is to see an infinite depth that produces other worldly value, and wisdom that cannot be found anywhere else. There is no greater example than the book of Romans. There is so much richness in Romans, not just of theology, but also to be read and nurtured into our souls. For example, the foundation of our faith in Christ is gloriously expressed in just two verses, Romans 1:16-17. Paul first addresses the respectability of our salvation by stating, “I am not ashamed of the Gospel.” His wording of not being ashamed of the Gospel has many ramifications.

It is shown by this to be the only gospel. It also means it is the only hope for mankind’s relation to God. It is alone the unique answer for man’s dilemma in sin. The fact of not being ashamed shows Paul’s inspired confidence and that not only is he not embarrassed to proclaim it, but that he is compelled to do so. At the same time it is a recognition by Paul that the Gospel will not be popular in a world bent toward evil. Regardless he believes absolutely in God’s promises and has total reliance of his life upon them. He will say later to the Ephesian elders, “But I do not consider my life of any account as dear to myself, so that I may finish my course and the ministry which I received from the Lord Jesus, to testify solemnly of the Gospel of God’s grace” (Acts 20:24).

Paul goes on to highlight the ability of the Gospel. He states, “It is the power of God for salvation for everyone who believes.” The word for power in the Greek is the strong word dunamis of which we derive our word for dynamite. The Gospel displays more power than any physical explosion, for this power is directed to recreate from the finite that which is infinite, and to change that which is by nature corrupt into the incorruptible. It is the energizing work of Almighty God. We should be reminded here of the value of God’s Word to every one who will listen. It is the means whereby God has chosen to save. It is what the church is to proclaim, and what we as individuals are to be fully embracing and sharing. “In the exercise of His will, He brought us forth by the Word of truth” (James 1:18).

Paul also addresses the necessity of a right reception of this powerful Gospel. He says, “For it is salvation to everyone who believes.” It was first for Jews, for it was through Jews that the gospel took place but it is also to be spread to Gentiles, or in other words all people in the world. We do not know who will believe. Our responsibility is to give this wonderful and powerful word to all, and God will draw individuals to Himself. When Paul speaks of “believe” we know this is referring to the saving belief that he will expound upon through the remainder of this writing. What it will describe is a transforming belief that effects the persons heart shown in new attitudes and actions.

The object for belief in the Gospel is described in verse 16 and shown in verse 17 as Jesus Christ, “For in it the righteousness of God is revealed from faith to faith.” The Lord Jesus as our substitute is the God-Man who is our righteousness. The Gospel of Christ is also progressive. Quoting A W Tozer, “Faith is not a destination, but a journey.” We study the Scripture to see Christ revealed and as we do we are engaged in a sanctification process growing in His likeness. It is here called, “Revealed from faith to faith.” Paul closes these two verses about the Gospel by quoting from the Old Testament to show us this Gospel has always been by faith, “But the righteous one will live by faith” (Habakkuk 2:4).

Beloved, we live in a troubled world. There are severe issues from every venue of life. Whether it be on a national, local, family, or personal scale there are problems too big for us to overcome. There are difficulties at every turn which should bring us to the same conclusion that Solomon reached as he contemplated life in our fallen world. He said all quests for benefit outside of a relation to God are “Futility of futilities,” says the Preacher, “all is futility” (Eccl. 12:8). But we have the Gospel of Jesus Christ and compared to it, all other issues pale. And where else can we turn to benefit, and find joy in the midst of trials and eternal happiness? It can only be found through the Gospel. The majesty of God’s Word is to know Jesus Christ who is life eternal. God’s Word is the unique source providing infinite quality and value. This is why we study it, and have the privilege to meet around it in holy worship. We are not ashamed of the Gospel.