We are a forgetful people in a land of distractions. Our minds are easily captivated by trivial and temporary inducements. New things quickly become old. In our mind’s eye even glory tends to fade and warnings tend to wane. It is no wonder that we who are invisibly united to Christ and visibly in and not of this world live in constant need of renewal. And what is true for the Christian is true for the church. This is a series that seeks to renew the mind of the church. Not so much by reviewing what she is called to do as much as what she is called. As with the Christian so with church, her God-given identity defines her. We who are the church are a people for God and none other.
Before we return to the book of Romans, we will be looking at the what scripture says about the Church, in its nature, how she expresses herself in song, and how the church cares and equips for its members.
The messages from this series can be found here:
Manny Pereira - June 12, 2022
Unashamed of the Gospel
The central theme of Romans is here sounded. Paul’s introduction and treatise intersect to form not only a transition but a thesis. These are the most theologically condensed verses in the letter. They richly promote Christ as they summarize the gospel of God. While verses 16 and 17 go together, this sermon focuses on the first half of the whole, with attention to contextual detail. The significance of what is here posited requires careful consideration in both its societal and scriptural contexts. In sum, the gospel is the power of God acting by grace alone in which the righteousness of God is revealed to save the unrighteous through faith alone. It is deeply humbling, but never humiliating. It is designed to be rejoiced, still it is often rejected. Because of it we may be shamed, but never ashamed!
Scripture References: Romans 1:16
