Good morning,
This week we conclude our study of the book of Romans. Chapter 16 lists the names of many Christians from Rome who have ministered with or influenced Paul’s life. Paul warns his readers of the people who try to cause divisions in the Church. He ends by praising God.
Paul concludes his letter to the Romans with greetings from those in Corinth and praise to God.
Greetings from those in Corinth (16:21-24)
21 Timotheus my workfellow, and Lucius, and Jason, and Sosipater, my kinsmen, salute you.22 I Tertius, who wrote this epistle, salute you in the Lord.23 Gaius mine host, and of the whole church, saluteth you. Erastus the chamberlain of the city saluteth you, and Quartus a brother.24 The grace of our Lord Jesus Christ be with you all. Amen.
Conclusion to the letter: praise to God (16:25-27)
25 Now to him that is of power to stablish you according to my gospel, and the preaching of Jesus Christ, according to the revelation of the mystery, which was kept secret since the world began,26 But now is made manifest, and by the scriptures of the prophets, according to the commandment of the everlasting God, made known to all nations for the obedience of faith:27 To God only wise, be glory through Jesus Christ for ever. Amen.
The Epistle to the Romans began by defining and describing sin. Sin’s consequence was judgement. The result of which was death. Our sin debt could only be paid for by the death, burial, and resurrection of Jesus Christ. He shed His perfect blood on our behalf as payment for our sin debt. Then we are told how to live as a Christian. Satan no more has dominion over us. We belong to Jesus who bought us with His own blood. Next, we learn how to relate to our brothers and sisters in Christ. Finally, we see the men and women who influenced Paul’s life in Rome. It reminds us that ministry takes a team of committed believers, each doing their part, to see men and women come to know Christ as Lord and Savior.
If you are reading this and have never trusted Christ to save you from your sin, please read Romans 3-5. If you have questions, please call me.
If you are reading this and you are trusting Christ as your personal Lord and Savior, please tell someone else how they might get saved. Time is running out. The Rapture could come at any time.
Tom Stearns, WASI Chaplain, 907 715-4001
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