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.
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:
To God only wise, be glory through Jesus Christ for ever. Amen. Romans 16:25-27
LET IT GLOW
While in college, I learned when teaching a lesson, there is the introduction, main points, and the summary. In his letter to the Christians at Rome, Paul is summarizing or concluding it in chapter 16. We see him praising God and thanking people.
Who is the Giver of stability? In verse 25, Paul recognizes that God is the One who has the power to stabilize us. The word establish means "to prop up, make firm, make stable." The ideas is something holding up or supporting something else.
Who is the Source of my support, all believer's support? It is our God. He is my strength and sustainer.
Who is the Revealer of the gospel? God made it known through His Son Jesus, through His Holy Spirit, through His prophets, and through His Word (to us). The Greek term for mystery is similar in meaning to the English word secret. We Gentiles can receive this mystery-personal faith in Jesus Christ as Savior, not just the Jews.
Who is the Proclaimer to the nations? The Everlasting God made His plan of salvation by faith known to all nations.
Who is the Initiator of obedience? The Lord leads individuals to the "obedience of faith." We share and witness about Jesus, but God saves.
How does Paul describe God in verse 27:
- His Uniqueness: all-powerful King of the Bible is God alone (Is. 45:5-6)
- His Wisdom: infinitely wise God, supremely intelligent and knows all things; unfathomably perceptive and accurate in His purposes and plans (Rom.11:33-34)
- His Son: the visible manifestation of God; the link between the infinite God and finite man
- His Eternal Glory: the visible manifestation of His character, Jesus Christ; our God is Everlasting and Eternal, without beginning nor end.
What is the last word in the Book of Romans? Amen is the last word. It expresses the deep conviction that "I believe it is true!" Do I believe what we studied? Definitely. To God be the glory forever. He is awesome!
LET IT GROW
How did Paul show love toward others at the beginning of chapter 16? He showed affection and concern by demonstrating authentic agape love. "Agape love is person-oriented, service-centered, self-sacrificing, and action-prone," states Swindoll.
Paul named 27 people. Titles were associated to 21 of them. Reference is made to greeting or commending a person 19 times. However, I only recognize 3 of those named. How about you? They must have been "behind-the-scene" type of people, but signigicant enough for Paul to mention.
How can we express affection and love to other Christians in an appropriate manner? Swindoll tells us to:
- Accept the variety in others. (men, women, couples, singles, mature, young in faith)
- Become a servant of others. (without a spot in the limelight)
- Cultivate expressions of esteem for others. (honor and encourage others with humility)
- Declare your love to others. ((use unimpressive but authentic ways)
(Reference: Charles Swindoll's book Relating to Others in Love)
What a walk through the Book of Romans this has been. I've enjoyed your input. Although, there is one more lesson to go, the summary. Stay tuned as I recall highlighted scriptures in my Bible and main points of Paul's teachings. Get your walking shoes ready.
LET IT GO
Praise and glory be to my God and King. He is my Strength, Sustainer, Stabilizer, Everlasting, Unique, and Loving Father.
Strive to show Agape love by accepting, serving, esteeming, and loving others.
Thank and praise more.
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