For I am not ashamed of the gospel, for it is the power of God for salvation to everyone who believes, to the Jew first and also to the Greek. For in it the righteousness of God is revealed from faith to faith, as it is written, “The righteous shall live by faith.”1
Like Paul, we are called as servants of Christ, set apart for the gospel of God.2 The good news that was promised beforehand is now revealed—But now the righteousness of God has been manifested apart from the law, although the Law and the Prophets bear witness to it—the righteousness of God through faith in Jesus Christ for all who believe. For there is no distinction: for all have sinned and fall short of the glory of God, and are justified by his grace as a gift, through the redemption that is in Christ Jesus.3
We are called to belong to Jesus Christ.4 He died for all, that those who live might no longer live for themselves but for him who for their sake died and was raised.5 Thus, our soul pleads, Teach me to do your will, for you are my God. Let your good Spirit lead me on level ground.6 Enter not into judgment with your servant, for no one living is righteous before you.7 For we hold that one is justified by faith apart from works of the law.8
We embrace the posture of a learner, attentive and focused—eager to learn, unlearn, and re-learn! Incline your ear, and hear the words of the wise, and apply your heart to my knowledge, for it will be pleasant if you keep them within you, if all of them are ready on your lips. That our trust may be in the LORD.9
How then will they call on him in whom they have not believed? And how are they to believe in him of whom they have never heard? And how are they to hear, without someone preaching?10 So faith comes from hearing, and hearing through the word of Christ.11 Apart from the gospel faith is not birth nor can it grow.
And without faith it is impossible to please him, for whoever would draw near to God must believe that he exists and that he rewards those who seek him.12 And Jesus came and said to them, “All authority in heaven and on earth has been given to me. Go therefore and make disciples of all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit, teaching them to observe all that I have commanded you. And behold, I am with you always, to the end of the age.”13
Notes:
1. Romans 1:16-17
2. Romans 1:1
3. Romans 3:21-24
4. Romans 1:6
5. 2 Corinthians 5:15
6. Psalm 143:10
7. Psalm 143:2
8. Romans 3:28
9. Proverbs 22:17-19a
10. Romans 10:14
11. Romans 10:17
12. Hebrews 11:6
13. Matthew 28:18-20
