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The End of Romans | Bob Wriedt | Romans 16:21-27
This week at Grace, we are finishing Romans!
The final verses of Romans are a doxology, a powerful expression of worship to God for all He has done. This doxology ties together many of the major themes of the book, giving us a chance to reflect on what we’ve learned and how it shapes our faith.
Join us as we look back on this incredible journey through Romans and consider how to take what we’ve learned into our daily walk with God. Let’s celebrate, reflect, and plan together for what’s next in our relationship with Him.
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Romans 16:21-27
21 Timothy, my fellow worker, greets you; so do Lucius and Jason and Sosipater, my kinsmen.
22 I Tertius, who wrote this letter, greet you in the Lord.
23 Gaius, who is host to me and to the whole church, greets you. Erastus, the city treasurer, and our brother Quartus, greet you.
25 Now to him who is able to strengthen you according to my gospel and the preaching of Jesus Christ, according to the revelation of the mystery that was kept secret for long ages 26 but has now been disclosed and through the prophetic writings has been made known to all nations, according to the command of the eternal God, to bring about the obedience of faith— 27 to the only wise God be glory forevermore through Jesus Christ! Amen.
The People of Romans: More than Just Names | Bob Wriedt | Romans 16:1-16
When you read the list of names in Romans 16:1-16—Phoebe, Prisca and Aquila, Andronicus and Junia, Epaenetus, Ampliatus, Rufus—what do you take away from it? If your answer is "Not much," you’re not alone. But there is so much more here than meets the eye.
These names represent real people whose lives teach us about the heart of early Christianity and what it means to live faithfully today. This passage is not just a list. It is a treasure trove of examples and mentors in the faith.
Join us this week at Grace as we uncover the stories behind these names and discover how their lives can inspire us to live with purpose, faithfulness, and a heart for the gospel. These early Christians remind us that every believer, no matter their role, has a significant part to play in God’s story.
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Romans 16:1-16
1 I commend to you our sister Phoebe, a servant of the church at Cenchreae,2 that you may welcome her in the Lord in a way worthy of the saints, and help her in whatever she may need from you, for she has been a patron of many and of myself as well.
3 Greet Prisca and Aquila, my fellow workers in Christ Jesus, 4 who risked their necks for my life, to whom not only I give thanks but all the churches of the Gentiles give thanks as well. 5 Greet also the church in their house. Greet my beloved Epaenetus, who was the first convert to Christ in Asia. 6 Greet Mary, who has worked hard for you. 7 Greet Andronicus and Junia, my kinsmen and my fellow prisoners. They are well known to the apostles, and they were in Christ before me.8 Greet Ampliatus, my beloved in the Lord. 9 Greet Urbanus, our fellow worker in Christ, and my beloved Stachys. 10 Greet Apelles, who is approved in Christ. Greet those who belong to the family of Aristobulus. 11 Greet my kinsman Herodion. Greet those in the Lord who belong to the family of Narcissus. 12 Greet those workers in the Lord, Tryphaena and Tryphosa. Greet the beloved Persis, who has worked hard in the Lord. 13 Greet Rufus, chosen in the Lord; also his mother, who has been a mother to me as well. 14 Greet Asyncritus, Phlegon, Hermes, Patrobas, Hermas, and the brothers who are with them. 15 Greet Philologus, Julia, Nereus and his sister, and Olympas, and all the saints who are with them. 16 Greet one another with a holy kiss. All the churches of Christ greet you.
Partners in the Gospel | Bob Wriedt | Romans 15:22-33
If someone called you "needy," how would you feel? In our culture, “needy” is often used as an insult. But the truth is, we all have needs—physical, relational, and spiritual. Even the Apostle Paul, with all his boldness and faith, openly acknowledged his needs in Romans 15:22-33.
As Paul outlines his plans for the future, we see his deep commitment to the mission of Jesus, even in the face of personal risk. But we also see his reliance on others. Paul needed the Romans, just as we need one another.
This week at Grace, we will explore what Paul’s example teaches us about acknowledging our needs, supporting one another, and meeting the needs of others without feeling overwhelmed. Join us as we unpack this powerful passage and reflect on how our needs and the needs of others shape our lives in Christ.
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Romans 15:22-33
22 This is the reason why I have so often been hindered from coming to you. 23 But now, since I no longer have any room for work in these regions, and since I have longed for many years to come to you, 24 I hope to see you in passing as I go to Spain, and to be helped on my journey there by you, once I have enjoyed your company for a while. 25 At present, however, I am going to Jerusalem bringing aid to the saints. 26 For Macedonia and Achaia have been pleased to make some contribution for the poor among the saints at Jerusalem. 27 For they were pleased to do it, and indeed they owe it to them. For if the Gentiles have come to share in their spiritual blessings, they ought also to be of service to them in material blessings. 28 When therefore I have completed this and have delivered to them what has been collected,[a] I will leave for Spain by way of you. 29 I know that when I come to you I will come in the fullness of the blessing[b] of Christ.
30 I appeal to you, brothers, by our Lord Jesus Christ and by the love of the Spirit, to strive together with me in your prayers to God on my behalf, 31 that I may be delivered from the unbelievers in Judea, and that my service for Jerusalem may be acceptable to the saints, 32 so that by God's will I may come to you with joy and be refreshed in your company. 33 May the God of peace be with you all. Amen.
Proud of My Work for God | Jason Ricafranca | Romans 15:14-21
Is there someone in your life where you’ve posed the thought, “I can’t imagine where I’d be if it weren’t for you”? I sometimes think of impactful teachers, pastors, friends, and especially my wife when I think about how I would answer this question.
There’s something special about having someone so impactful in our lives that we can’t even begin to imagine what our life may look like today without their involvement.
This Sunday we’re continuing our slow wind-down of the final couple chapters in the book of Romans. In Romans 15, the Apostle Paul shares about the specific calling he has received in life that was tied to the grace that was shown him by Jesus. Because of the grace of God that brought Paul to faith in Christ, Paul found his calling to minister, evangelize, and share the good news to people from all over the world!
I can’t imagine what my life would have looked like if God hadn’t used loved ones and friends to not only share the gospel, but disciple me in my faith growing up as a young man (and even today)! My hope and prayer is that this Sunday, as we dive into Romans 15, that we are reminded of the salvation we have received from Christ and feel compelled to share this good news to others around us!
Looking forward to hearing about your Thanksgiving holiday and opening up the word with you all this weekend!
Blessings!
- Pastor Jason
Romans 15:14-21
14 I myself am satisfied about you, my brothers,[a] that you yourselves are full of goodness, filled with all knowledge and able to instruct one another. 15 But on some points I have written to you very boldly by way of reminder, because of the grace given me by God 16 to be a minister of Christ Jesus to the Gentiles in the priestly service of the gospel of God, so that the offering of the Gentiles may be acceptable, sanctified by the Holy Spirit. 17 In Christ Jesus, then, I have reason to be proud of my work for God. 18 For I will not venture to speak of anything except what Christ has accomplished through me to bring the Gentiles to obedience—by word and deed, 19 by the power of signs and wonders, by the power of the Spirit of God—so that from Jerusalem and all the way around to Illyricum I have fulfilled the ministry of the gospel of Christ; 20 and thus I make it my ambition to preach the gospel, not where Christ has already been named, lest I build on someone else's foundation, 21 but as it is written,
“Those who have never been told of him will see,
and those who have never heard will understand.”
Thankful for the Gospel | Bob Wriedt | Romans 15:7-13
"What are you thankful for?"
You might get asked this question a few times in the next week or so. I imagine for many of us, the answers will be similar to last year - our family, friends, health, and (if we're feeling spiritual) God's love for us.
These are great answers! But they aren't the only ones. This week at Grace, we're going to spend some time reflecting on the dozens of reasons we have to be grateful to God.
To facilitate that, we've changed the order and elements of our worship service, so that you have ample time and prompts to help you fill up a long list of reasons to be thankful to God.
As part of this special Thanksgiving service, we'll continue in Romans 15:7-13 and reflect on some reasons to be thankful for the gospel.
I'm eager for you to experience this week's service and for you to overflow with gratitude to God.
In Christ,
Pastor Bob
Romans 15:7-13
7 Therefore welcome one another as Christ has welcomed you, for the glory of God.
8 For I tell you that Christ became a servant to the circumcised to show God's truthfulness, in order to confirm the promises given to the patriarchs, 9 and in order that the Gentiles might glorify God for his mercy. As it is written,
“Therefore I will praise you among the Gentiles,
and sing to your name.”
10 And again it is said,
“Rejoice, O Gentiles, with his people.”
11 And again,
“Praise the Lord, all you Gentiles,
and let all the peoples extol him.”
12 And again Isaiah says,
“The root of Jesse will come,
even he who arises to rule the Gentiles;
in him will the Gentiles hope.”
13 May the God of hope fill you with all joy and peace in believing, so that by the power of the Holy Spirit you may abound in hope.
A strong Christian life | Bob Wriedt | Romans 15:1-6
What does it mean to be a strong Christian?
"Strong" is one of Paul's favorite metaphors to talk about the Christian life. Romans begins (1:11) and ends (16:25) with the stated goal of the book - to strengthen us. He prays for strength for others (Col 1:11), exhorts people to 'be strong' (Eph 6:10), and describes himself as strong in Christ (Phil 4:13).
You've probably heard the metaphor of a "strong Christian" so often that you stopped noticing that it is a metaphor. But we all know that physical strength has nothing to do with what Paul is describing. So, what does it mean to be a strong Christian?
This week at Grace, we're in Romans 15:1-6, where Paul describes his expectations of the strong and their means for achieving them. In short, he tells us what spiritual strength is, what it's for, and how to cultivate it.
Let's take advantage of this opportunity to strengthened together this Sunday.
In Christ,
Pastor Bob
Romans 15:1-6
1 We who are strong have an obligation to bear with the failings of the weak, and not to please ourselves. 2 Let each of us please his neighbor for his good, to build him up. 3 For Christ did not please himself, but as it is written, “The reproaches of those who reproached you fell on me.” 4 For whatever was written in former days was written for our instruction, that through endurance and through the encouragement of the Scriptures we might have hope. 5 May the God of endurance and encouragement grant you to live in such harmony with one another, in accord with Christ Jesus,6 that together you may with one voice glorify the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ.
Living Together in Christian Freedom | Bob Wriedt | Romans 14:13-23
This week at Grace, we're in the second half of Romans 14 and continuing the discussion of Christian freedom.
And honestly, it's in the second half of the chapter where things get challenging. Because this is the part of the passage where it's not enough to just "let it go" when we disagree. When the application is, "Don't quarrel about secondary matters of faith," most of us nod our heads agreeably. Who wants to fight over things that are of dubious importance?
But the second half of Romans 14 is tougher to nod along with amicably. Now Paul challenges us to sacrifice our preferences for the sake of one another, and let the weaker brother have their way as a gift of love. In the words of my kids (seemingly a dozen times a day), "Why does HE get to be first? Why can't I be first?" Or, "Why should SHE get HER way? Why can't we do it MY way?"
Good questions. And not ones that go away when we get older. So let's talk about them.
See you Sunday!
In Christ,
Pastor Bob
Romans 14:13-23
13 Therefore let us not pass judgment on one another any longer, but rather decide never to put a stumbling block or hindrance in the way of a brother. 14 I know and am persuaded in the Lord Jesus that nothing is unclean in itself, but it is unclean for anyone who thinks it unclean. 15 For if your brother is grieved by what you eat, you are no longer walking in love. By what you eat, do not destroy the one for whom Christ died. 16 So do not let what you regard as good be spoken of as evil. 17 For the kingdom of God is not a matter of eating and drinking but of righteousness and peace and joy in the Holy Spirit. 18 Whoever thus serves Christ is acceptable to God and approved by men. 19 So then let us pursue what makes for peace and for mutual upbuilding.
20 Do not, for the sake of food, destroy the work of God. Everything is indeed clean, but it is wrong for anyone to make another stumble by what he eats. 21 It is good not to eat meat or drink wine or do anything that causes your brother to stumble.[a] 22 The faith that you have, keep between yourself and God. Blessed is the one who has no reason to pass judgment on himself for what he approves. 23 But whoever has doubts is condemned if he eats, because the eating is not from faith. For whatever does not proceed from faith is sin.
But they're wrong! | Bob Wriedt | Romans 14:1-12
This week at Grace, we're in Romans 14:1-12, where Paul describes the importance of Christian freedom in disputed matters.
For the Romans, the presenting issue was how the Old Testament food laws applied to Christians. For us today, issues of Christian freedom abound: politics, entertainment, alcohol... We could go on and on.
How do we live together in Christian community with people who disagree with us?
This week's Scripture is invaluable in showing us a path forward. I'm very grateful for our former senior pastor, Don Shoemaker, and all that he taught me about Christian freedom, and I'm looking forward to opening the discussion with you all this Sunday.
In Christ,
Pastor Bob
PS. This Sunday is the end of Daylight Saving Time for the year. Enjoy the extra hour of sleep!
Romans 14:1-12
1 As for the one who is weak in faith, welcome him, but not to quarrel over opinions. 2 One person believes he may eat anything, while the weak person eats only vegetables. 3 Let not the one who eats despise the one who abstains, and let not the one who abstains pass judgment on the one who eats, for God has welcomed him. 4 Who are you to pass judgment on the servant of another? It is before his own master[a] that he stands or falls. And he will be upheld, for the Lord is able to make him stand.
5 One person esteems one day as better than another, while another esteems all days alike. Each one should be fully convinced in his own mind.6 The one who observes the day, observes it in honor of the Lord. The one who eats, eats in honor of the Lord, since he gives thanks to God, while the one who abstains, abstains in honor of the Lord and gives thanks to God. 7 For none of us lives to himself, and none of us dies to himself. 8 For if we live, we live to the Lord, and if we die, we die to the Lord. So then, whether we live or whether we die, we are the Lord's. 9 For to this end Christ died and lived again, that he might be Lord both of the dead and of the living.
10 Why do you pass judgment on your brother? Or you, why do you despise your brother? For we will all stand before the judgment seat of God;11 for it is written,
“As I live, says the Lord, every knee shall bow to me,
and every tongue shall confess[b] to God.”
12 So then each of us will give an account of himself to God.
Love and Perspective | Jason Ricafranca | Romans 13:8-14
In the movie adaptation of Alexandre Dumas’ book, The Count of Monte Cristo, there’s this
scene where the main character, Edmond Dantes, has to fight to the death against another man
named Jacopo. Both of these men are prisoners and only one is supposed to survive.
During the epic battle, Dantes bests Jacopo, but instead of taking his life he shows mercy and
persuades the captain to spare both of them. The captain agrees and Jacopo, upon realizing
that he has been set free, offers his life to serve Edmond. In a beautiful exchange, Jacopo
whispers to Dantes, “I swear on my dead relatives – and even the ones who are not feeling to
good – I am your man forever!”
I love this line! Throughout the course of the movie, you see just how loyal and loving of a
friend Jacopo is to Edmond as he offers advice, adopts a role as caretaker, and even protects
Edmond’s family from danger!
Jacopo (a really fun name to pronounce) realized what he had been freed from, and even
though he was free to do whatever he wanted – he committed his life to serving Edmond…
This Sunday we will be looking at Romans 13:8-14 and we’ll be making the connection that you
and I are in a similar situation – we have been freed from the penalty of sin and death, and
Paul’s imperative from Romans is powerful… “Owe no one anything, except to love each other,
for the one who loves another has fulfilled the law” – How do we go about doing this? Join us
this Sunday to dive deeper into this passage!
See you soon!
- Pastor Jason
Romans 13:8-14
8 Owe no one anything, except to love each other, for the one who loves another has fulfilled the law. 9 For the commandments, “You shall not commit adultery, You shall not murder, You shall not steal, You shall not covet,” and any other commandment, are summed up in this word: “You shall love your neighbor as yourself.” 10 Love does no wrong to a neighbor; therefore love is the fulfilling of the law.
11 Besides this you know the time, that the hour has come for you to wake from sleep. For salvation is nearer to us now than when we first believed. 12 The night is far gone; the day is at hand. So then let us cast off the works of darkness and put on the armor of light. 13 Let us walk properly as in the daytime, not in orgies and drunkenness, not in sexual immorality and sensuality, not in quarreling and jealousy.14 But put on the Lord Jesus Christ, and make no provision for the flesh, to gratify its desires.
Understanding Authority | Bob Wriedt | Romans 13:1-7
For as long as I've been a Christian, I've been encouraged to love my enemies. Passages like Jesus' instruction to turn the other cheek or Jesus' forgiveness of his crucifiers are rightly tied to the very fabric of Christian ethics.
Being so familiar with the call to love our enemies might blind us to the obvious question: Why? Why would anyone love their enemies? Is it just a provocative and difficult thing to do? Or is there more to it than that?
This week at Grace, we'll be in Romans 12:14-21, looking at Paul's exhortation to bless and not curse those who persecute them. This paragraph represents the other side of the coin from the paragraph that came before. Last week, Chris taught on loving one another in the church. Now, Paul shifts to loving those who are against us. Yet the ethic of love remains the same.
Is there something in the big picture of the gospel in Romans that answers the question of why we should love our enemies?
Let's talk about it together this Sunday!
In Christ,
Pastor Bob
Romans 13:1-7
1 Let every person be subject to the governing authorities. For there is no authority except from God, and those that exist have been instituted by God. 2 Therefore whoever resists the authorities resists what God has appointed, and those who resist will incur judgment. 3 For rulers are not a terror to good conduct, but to bad. Would you have no fear of the one who is in authority? Then do what is good, and you will receive his approval,4 for he is God's servant for your good. But if you do wrong, be afraid, for he does not bear the sword in vain. For he is the servant of God, an avenger who carries out God's wrath on the wrongdoer. 5 Therefore one must be in subjection, not only to avoid God's wrath but also for the sake of conscience. 6 For because of this you also pay taxes, for the authorities are ministers of God, attending to this very thing. 7 Pay to all what is owed to them: taxes to whom taxes are owed, revenue to whom revenue is owed, respect to whom respect is owed, honor to whom honor is owed.
Who would love their enemies? | Bob Wriedt | Romans 12:14-21
For as long as I've been a Christian, I've been encouraged to love my enemies. Passages like Jesus' instruction to turn the other cheek or Jesus' forgiveness of his crucifiers are rightly tied to the very fabric of Christian ethics.
Being so familiar with the call to love our enemies might blind us to the obvious question: Why? Why would anyone love their enemies? Is it just a provocative and difficult thing to do? Or is there more to it than that?
This week at Grace, we'll be in Romans 12:14-21, looking at Paul's exhortation to bless and not curse those who persecute them. This paragraph represents the other side of the coin from the paragraph that came before. Last week, Chris taught on loving one another in the church. Now, Paul shifts to loving those who are against us. Yet the ethic of love remains the same.
Is there something in the big picture of the gospel in Romans that answers the question of why we should love our enemies?
Let's talk about it together this Sunday!
In Christ,
Pastor Bob
Romans 12:14-21
14 Bless those who persecute you; bless and do not curse them. 15 Rejoice with those who rejoice, weep with those who weep. 16 Live in harmony with one another. Do not be haughty, but associate with the lowly. Never be wise in your own sight. 17 Repay no one evil for evil, but give thought to do what is honorable in the sight of all. 18 If possible, so far as it depends on you, live peaceably with all. 19 Beloved, never avenge yourselves, but leave it to the wrath of God, for it is written, “Vengeance is mine, I will repay, says the Lord.” 20 To the contrary, “if your enemy is hungry, feed him; if he is thirsty, give him something to drink; for by so doing you will heap burning coals on his head.” 21 Do not be overcome by evil, but overcome evil with good.
Genuine Love (Romans 12:9-13)
A while back, someone gave me a Bible that I just love. The cover is made of super soft leather, the pages are thin but strong, and the print is nice and sharp. Inside the cover, there's a little stamp that says "genuine leather."
That word genuine stuck with me. It's not fake; it's the real deal.
This Week at Grace, we're continuing in Romans 12:9-13, where Paul talks about what genuine love looks like. Not just words or good intentions, but the kind of love that's real, honest, and shows up in how we live. The kind that makes a difference in how we treat each other, how we care for people, and how we reflect Jesus.
I'm excited to continue learning and growing as we offer ourselves to God together.
-Pastor Chris
Romans 12:9-13
9 Let love be genuine. Abhor what is evil; hold fast to what is good. 10 Love one another with brotherly affection. Outdo one another in showing honor.11 Do not be slothful in zeal, be fervent in spirit, serve the Lord. 12 Rejoice in hope, be patient in tribulation, be constant in prayer. 13 Contribute to the needs of the saints and seek to show hospitality.
Use Your Gifts (Romans 12:3-8)
"Do you know your spiritual gifts?"
This question has been popular in evangelical Christianity throughout the past fifty years or so. And with good reason - the New Testament describes spiritual gifts as being one way that God provides for His people.
But how we talk about spiritual gifts in the church does not always match the beauty and fullness of what the New Testament describes. Too often they are reduced to an assessment inventory and a call to then join a ministry team ("Do you have the gift of mercy? Become a Children's Ministry volunteer! Actually, whatever gift you have, join Children's Ministry!")
There's nothing wrong with (most) spiritual gifts inventories or with matching our gifts to service, but there has to be something more spiritual about spiritual gifts, doesn't there?
This week at Grace, we're looking at Romans 12:3-8, one of the longest passages in the Bible about spiritual gifts. In this passage, Paul puts spiritual gifts in the context of what it means to be human - to have an accurate self-assessment of what is (and is not) possible for our lives, to need one another, and to offer something to each other.
When we look at spiritual gifts in a broad view of the message of Romans as a whole, I hope that we can find joy, peace, and delight in using our spiritual gifts for ministry.
In Christ,
Pastor Bob
Romans 12:3-8
3 For by the grace given to me I say to everyone among you not to think of himself more highly than he ought to think, but to think with sober judgment, each according to the measure of faith that God has assigned. 4 For as in one body we have many members, and the members do not all have the same function, 5 so we, though many, are one body in Christ, and individually members one of another. 6 Having gifts that differ according to the grace given to us, let us use them: if prophecy, in proportion to our faith; 7 if service, in our serving; the one who teaches, in his teaching; 8 the one who exhorts, in his exhortation; the one who contributes, in generosity; the one who leads, with zeal; the one who does acts of mercy, with cheerfulness.
Understanding the Will of God (Romans 12:2)
Thank you to everyone who came out last Sunday for Grace at the Beach! We had close to 400 people come to the worship service, way more than we expected (which you probably noticed if you were one of the people standing in the back - sorry about that!).
This week we're back inside the building at Grace and we're covering Romans 12:2. (Yep, just one verse). Why such a short passage? Because it contains a myriad of corrections to our current moment and is so incredibly relevant to our lives 2,000 years after it was written.
Paul warns his readers that conforming to the world may be tempting, but it will never put us in line with the will of God. Interestingly, Paul from worldly conformity in the form of a metaphor - something pressing on us from the outside-in, a distortion of what we were truly made to be.
Conformity won't bring us in line with the will of God. Instead, Paul says that we need to experience the renewal of our minds. How does that transformation happen? Why is it described as a renewal? Why is the mind where this should happen?
Looking forward to talking about it this Sunday with you at Grace!
In Christ,
Pastor Bob
Romans 12:2
2 Do not be conformed to this world, but be transformed by the renewal of your mind, that by testing you may discern what is the will of God, what is good and acceptable and perfect.
Baptism and the Christian Life (Romans 12:1-2)
This week at Grace... we're not at Grace!
This Sunday's only worship service will be at 10 am at Eisenhower Park in Seal Beach, the grassy area right next to the Pier and the beach on 8th and Ocean.
The reason we're having Grace at the Beach is to celebrate baptisms in the Pacific Ocean. Before we walk down to the coast, though, we will have a full worship service outside in our community, giving us a chance as a church to proclaim the gospel of Jesus Christ in word, song, and action.
As part of this open air worship service, we're continuing through Romans this Sunday with one of my favorite passages and one that is perfect for baptism - Romans 12:1-2. Paul exhorts his listeners to consider carefully how the mercy of God calls for a response, and that the only reasonable response is to offer our whole selves back to God as a living sacrifice.
That response is what baptism is all about. So whether you are being baptized or you have been a Christian for years, may this Sunday be a time of renewing your commitment to Jesus!
See you Sunday at Grace at the Beach!
In Christ,
Pastor Bob
PS. The weather forecast is very promising - a high of 75 degrees and minimal waves in the ocean. Also, we've rented chairs for the worship service, so no need to bring your own this year.
Romans 12:1-2
1 I appeal to you therefore, brothers, by the mercies of God, to present your bodies as a living sacrifice, holy and acceptable to God, which is your spiritual worship. 2 Do not be conformed to this world, but be transformed by the renewal of your mind, that by testing you may discern what is the will of God, what is good and acceptable and perfect.
The Mystery of Salvation (Romans 11:25-36)
If God told you everything you wanted to know about the future, what sort of person would you become?
This week at Grace, we're continuing in Romans 11 with a (very contested) passage that includes a peak behind the curtain of the future. Romans 11:26 provocatively claims that "All Israel will be saved."
We'll talk on Sunday about the various ways that Christians have understood Paul's claim here. (The only thing we need to figure out is what he means by "All," "Israel," and "Saved," not to mention when this "will be." Not exactly as easy as it sounds...)
But in addition to the debate, it's worth noticing what impact this theological insight has on Paul's soul - it moves him to humility (v. 33 - "How unsearchable are his judgments and how inscrutable his ways!") and to worship (v. 36 - "For from him and through him and to him are all things. To him be glory forever. Amen.")
Let's be the same sort of people - learning God's Word not to be conceited or proud, but in order to be full of humility and worship.
In Christ,
Pastor Bob
Romans 11:25-36
25 Lest you be wise in your own sight, I do not want you to be unaware of this mystery, brothers: a partial hardening has come upon Israel, until the fullness of the Gentiles has come in. 26 And in this way all Israel will be saved, as it is written,
“The Deliverer will come from Zion,
he will banish ungodliness from Jacob”;
27 “and this will be my covenant with them
when I take away their sins.”
28 As regards the gospel, they are enemies for your sake. But as regards election, they are beloved for the sake of their forefathers. 29 For the gifts and the calling of God are irrevocable. 30 For just as you were at one time disobedient to God but now have received mercy because of their disobedience, 31 so they too have now been disobedient in order that by the mercy shown to you they also may now receive mercy. 32 For God has consigned all to disobedience, that he may have mercy on all.
33 Oh, the depth of the riches and wisdom and knowledge of God! How unsearchable are his judgments and how inscrutable his ways!
34 “For who has known the mind of the Lord,
or who has been his counselor?”
35 “Or who has given a gift to him
that he might be repaid?”
36 For from him and through him and to him are all things. To him be glory forever. Amen.
Grafted In: The Story of Gentiles in the Church (Romans 11:11-24)
I love to travel.
Wherever we go, I want to find out the history of the people who lived there and experience life from their eyes. I've been lucky enough to get to spend time in Italy, Japan, Sierra Leone, France, and elsewhere that has enlarged my perspective on the world.
But when my family went to Sweden a couple of years ago, it was different. It was the first time I went to the homeland of my grandparents. These weren't other people's stories, food, and land; these were our stories, food, and land.
Well, most of us in the family, anyways. Becca was enthusiastic, but she's only a Swede by marriage. She has no memory of her grandmother serving pepparkaka or dressing up as Santa Lucia.
But now, these stories become hers because she has been brought into a people. (And vice versa - I enjoy learning about her family's participation in the Revolutionary War and eating Stack Cake, too).
This week at Grace, we're covering Romans 11:11-24. In this passage Paul explains why Gentiles can participate in the blessings of Israel - why their stories can be our stories, too. Additionally, Paul describes the blessings and warnings that both Gentiles and Israelites can be for one another.
By studying this passage together, I hope that it will help us better understand how to live in community together, and to delight in the faithfulness of God.
Look forward to seeing you Sunday at Grace!
In Christ,
Pastor Bob
11 So I ask, did they stumble in order that they might fall? By no means! Rather, through their trespass salvation has come to the Gentiles, so as to make Israel jealous. 12 Now if their trespass means riches for the world, and if their failure means riches for the Gentiles, how much more will their full inclusionmean!
13 Now I am speaking to you Gentiles. Inasmuch then as I am an apostle to the Gentiles, I magnify my ministry 14 in order somehow to make my fellow Jews jealous, and thus save some of them. 15 For if their rejection means the reconciliation of the world, what will their acceptance mean but life from the dead? 16 If the dough offered as firstfruits is holy, so is the whole lump, and if the root is holy, so are the branches.
17 But if some of the branches were broken off, and you, although a wild olive shoot, were grafted in among the others and now share in the nourishing root of the olive tree, 18 do not be arrogant toward the branches. If you are, remember it is not you who support the root, but the root that supports you.19 Then you will say, “Branches were broken off so that I might be grafted in.” 20 That is true. They were broken off because of their unbelief, but you stand fast through faith. So do not become proud, but fear. 21 For if God did not spare the natural branches, neither will he spare you. 22 Note then the kindness and the severity of God: severity toward those who have fallen, but God's kindness to you, provided you continue in his kindness. Otherwise you too will be cut off. 23 And even they, if they do not continue in their unbelief, will be grafted in, for God has the power to graft them in again. 24 For if you were cut from what is by nature a wild olive tree, and grafted, contrary to nature, into a cultivated olive tree, how much more will these, the natural branches, be grafted back into their own olive tree.
Romans 11:11-24
Where to Find Hope (Romans 11:1-6)
Have you ever felt like you were the only one?
Being a Christian can feel lonely sometimes. Maybe it's in your family, or in your workplace, or at school.
What do we do with such alienation?
This week at Grace, we're in Romans 11:1-10. Paul is continuing his response to the question, "If Jesus is really the Messiah of Israel, why didn't Israel embrace him more?" In this section, he's focused on the role of the remnant of Israel as a proof of God's faithfulness.
Paul's hope is that by re-focusing our attention away from who has rejected Christ and toward those who have responded to Him, we will grow in our faith and trust in the faithfulness of God.
Let's do that together this Sunday.
In Christ,
Pastor Bob
I ask, then, has God rejected his people? By no means! For I myself am an Israelite, a descendant of Abraham, a member of the tribe of Benjamin. 2 God has not rejected his people whom he foreknew. Do you not know what the Scripture says of Elijah, how he appeals to God against Israel? 3 “Lord, they have killed your prophets, they have demolished your altars, and I alone am left, and they seek my life.” 4 But what is God's reply to him? “I have kept for myself seven thousand men who have not bowed the knee to Baal.” 5 So too at the present time there is a remnant, chosen by grace. 6 But if it is by grace, it is no longer on the basis of works; otherwise grace would no longer be grace.
Romans 11:1-6
Why Missions (Romans 10:14-17)
"Peace be with you. As the Father has sent me, even so I am sending you." - John 20:21.
In this brief yet profound statement, Jesus commissioned His followers to continue His mission, a call that is still relevant to us today.
This week at Grace, we are honored to have Pastor Steve Williams continue our study of Romans. He will walk us through Romans 10:14-17, where the Apostle Paul emphasizes the crucial role of missions in spreading the Gospel.
As we prepare our hearts for worship, it's a great time to reflect on the missionaries we support as a church. These dedicated individuals and families have answered the call to go into the world, often in challenging and distant places, to bring the good news of Jesus Christ to those who have yet to hear it.
Let's come together this Sunday with a renewed commitment to Christ's mission!
-Pastor Chris
“14 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? 15 And how are they to preach unless they are sent? As it is written, “How beautiful are the feet of those who preach the good news!” 16 But they have not all obeyed the gospel. For Isaiah says, “Lord, who has believed what he has heard from us?” 17 So faith comes from hearing, and hearing through the word of Christ.”
Romans 10:14-17
Salvation: Yours in Christ Jesus (Romans 10:5-13)
Growing up I had a habit of tinkering with things. If our house phone wasn’t working, I’d grab a screwdriver and open it up. If a door or a piece of furniture seemed off, I might try to deconstruct it and figure out what was wrong.
This lead to many headaches for my parents growing up – and it wasn’t until I had tinkered around and messed something up for the umpteenth time that my aunt had affectionately and empathetically told me, “You have the Cardenas touch”. She was alluding to something that my family on my mom’s side had historically done… sought out to fix something and in return, we’d make it worse.
It reminds me of the old adage, “If it ain’t broke, don’t fix it.”
This Sunday in Romans we’re going to be looking further into the way the Israelites tried to fix something that didn’t need help at all – our salvation in Christ! In our message we’ll spend time looking into how a works-based righteousness kept Paul’s listeners from seeing and savoring the beauty of the gospel message, namely that Christ is our RIGHTEOUSNESS!
Looking forward to being with you all this Sunday!
- Jason
5 For Moses writes about the righteousness that is based on the law, that the person who does the commandments shall live by them. 6 But the righteousness based on faith says, “Do not say in your heart, ‘Who will ascend into heaven?’” (that is, to bring Christ down) 7 “or ‘Who will descend into the abyss?’” (that is, to bring Christ up from the dead). 8 But what does it say? “The word is near you, in your mouth and in your heart” (that is, the word of faith that we proclaim); 9 because, if you confess with your mouth that Jesus is Lord and believe in your heart that God raised him from the dead, you will be saved. 10 For with the heart one believes and is justified, and with the mouth one confesses and is saved. 11 For the Scripture says, “Everyone who believes in him will not be put to shame.” 12 For there is no distinction between Jew and Greek; for the same Lord is Lord of all, bestowing his riches on all who call on him. 13 For “everyone who calls on the name of the Lord will be saved.”
Romans 10:5-13