Read New Testament in Three Months
November 19 - Romans 1 - 3
Today we begin the epistle/letter of Romans. It was written by Paul to the church, both Jewish and Gentile in Rome between 56 and 58 A.D. and is one of the longest letters.
In chapter 1 of Romans we see Paul introducing himself and shares the Good News that were foretold by the prophets of old and fulfilled through God's Son, Jesus Christ. Paul speaks about the grace of God that is given to us and also speaks of his gratitude to the saints who have stood in faith and how God has made Himself known in times past through His creation and that the inner man knows that God exists but, even in knowing, they turned from Him. Paul speaks of how people had turned away from Him, choosing to follow the lust of their flesh and their own desires rather than to obey Him and give Him thanks for all He had given them. These words of Paul should be taken very seriously for it is a warning but not just in Paul's day but today as well. There are many who deny that God exists even though there is over surmounting evidence that He does.
Paul writes about the Law and those who preach it, yet do not follow it. That gives them a sense of superiority over others and God surely does not see it that way. Better to do the will of God then to speak it or even to teach it. God is looking for us. As you read these chapters today, allow the Holy Spirit to search your heart. Are our hearts yearning to know Him and to abide in Christ in a way that makes us want to desire not to sin but to turn away from it? Paul says that through Christ we are given grace from our sins but it does not mean that we should continue in sin. Let us not abuse the generosity of God's love and Jesus sacrifice for us...
