Sun, 8 April 2012
Text: Romans 1:14-16 * Setting - Paul’s desire to be with the Christians in Rome does not overshadow his purpose in writing. The letter to the church of Rome is devoted to the gospel of Jesus Christ. Paul penned the doctrine of salvation for the benefit of the church in Rome. We are benefactors of his writing. His love for the Lord is expressed in numerous ways in the letter; however his language in verses 14-16 clearly point to his love for the gospel and his desire to proclaim it. There was an unmistakable change in Paul’s life as a result of his relationship with the Lord. He makes 3 profound statements: - the word obligated occurs in some translations. Paul clearly reveals his responsibility to proclaim the “good news” to the entire human race. The word translated “barbarians” literally refers to all other human beings from the viewpoint of the Greeks. There was no partiality with the apostle Paul. James 2 makes it clear that there is no room for partiality with Christians. - the word eager means to be prepared or ready. The King James Version reads, “so, as much as is in me is, I am ready to proclaim the gospel. - one of the most potent, penetrating statements in the New Testament. Paul was not the least bit ashamed or embarrassed about the gospel. In fact the Bible clearly points to the exact opposite. He is so committed and unashamed that he refers to it as “his gospel.” (Romans 16:25; II Timothy 2:8) |
Sun, 8 April 2012
This is the first lesson in a series on the history of the Church. The class is taught by Mr. Jan Langford. Some of the Topics to be looked at in this multiweek study include the purpose, beginning and organization of the Church. The beginnings of missions and the opposition to the church. The growth of hierarchialism and denominationalism. The Protestant Reformation. |