Preacher’s BiBleThe Epistle to the Romans

Editora Evangélica Esperança (EEE, “Hope Evangelical Publisher”) in Brazil is a publishing house con-nected to Allianz Mission in Germany. Allianz Mission has missionary works in more than 20 countries around the world. Among them are Tanzania, Kenya, Mali, Philippines, China, Sri Lanka, Vietnam, Cam-bodia, Tajikistan, Russia, Kosovo and Brazil.

The United Bible Societies (UBS) is a world fellowship of National Bible Societies, joined together “for consultation, mutual support and action in their task of achieving the widest possible, effective and mean-ingful distribution of the Holy Scriptures and of helping people interact with the Word of God. Bible So-cieties seek to carry out their task in partnership and co-operation with all Christian churches and with church-related organisations.” You are invited to share in this work by your prayers and gifts. The Bible Society in your country will be very happy to provide details of its activity.

THE PREACHER’S BIBLESermon outlines and other auxiliary materials© 2011 Editora Evangélica Esperança (EEE, “Hope Evangelical Publisher”), Brazilwww.esperanca-editora.com.brAll rights reservedKing James Versiontypeset by the Bible Society of Brazil © 2011 Bible Society of Brazilwww.sbb.org.brAll rights reserved.

It is with satisfaction that we introduce the Preacher’s Bible, a work that connects the Holy Bible, King James Version (KJV), with almost two thousand biblical outlines previously published in two books by Edi-tora Evangélica Esperança (EEE, “Hope Evangelical Publisher”, Brazil).

This work aims to be a meaningful help for pastors, group leaders and preachers of God’s work when preparing biblical messages.

The dream of a working Bible with these features was developed as a result of over one hundred thou-sand users of the outline books. They asked for an even more useful and functional tool for the preparation of their preaching. The Bible Society of Brazil (BSB), a member of the United Bible Societies (UBS), had already planned a Bible with these features. The idea to publish a Bible that incorporated the outlines into the biblical text was considered and developed in the many meetings between the EEE and BSB.

The Bible we are now introducing is the embodiment of that vision. We believe it will be of great value for those who toil in the teaching and preaching of God’s Word. In order to integrate the outlines into the Preacher’s Bible, the outline books were submitted to a full revision. Special care was taken to place the outlines as close as possible to the biblical texts to which they refer to. It means that almost every page of the Bible contains an outline. This Bible also includes a short manual produced by Pr. Fred Roland Born-schein to help in the use of the outlines in the preparation of messages.

We are deeply thankful to the Lord for the way he allowed this dream to come true. We also express our thankfulness to the BSB and EEE’s teams who meticulously and diligently worked in the preparation of this Bible.

All glory be to God.Walter Feckinghaus

Preface to the Preacher’s BiBle

initial observations1. The outlines included in this Bible are only sug-

gestions. As you bend over them, please feel free to change them, either taking away or add-ing verses or modifying topics according to your judgment. The outlines are not a “straitjacket”, but tools aiming to support your teaching and preaching ministry.

2. There are different kinds of sermons: Expositive, thematic, biblical-thematic, etc. The outlines in-cluded in the “Preacher’s Bible” are generally of two kinds: “Expositive” and “biblical-thematic”. Some outlines do not fit any well-defined catego-ry.a. The “expositive” sermons are those who focus

on a theme, using only one main biblical text. The biblical text might be either short (only a few verses) or long (for example, a whole bib-lical book, such as Jonah or Hebrews). All the outlines sub-points are extracted from this main text. Examples of expositive sermon out-lines can be found in Matt 4 (The temptation of Christ); Luke 19.1-10 (Zacchaeus, the tax collector); John 10 (The Lord is my Shepherd); and Rev 1 (John, the true prophet).

b. The “biblical-thematic” sermons are those who deal with a specific theme using text from dif-ferent part of the Bible. Examples of “biblical-thematic” sermons can be found in Luke 19.10 (Why did the Lord come to this world?); John 3 (The great transformation); Jam 1.26 (The un-bridle tongue); Rev 7.11 (Angels, examples of God’s servants).

an analogyWe would like to provide you with some hints

on how to make use of the “Preacher’s Bible” in the most effective way. We will initially use a vision of the prophet Ezekiel (Ezek 37.1-10). To illustrate the challenge we have ahead, we took the freedom of applying it out of its original and literal meaning. Initially, in a vision, Ezekiel saw a valley full of dry bones laying everywhere. Then he saw the bones

how to use the outlinesDear preacher and professor,

Congratulations for acquiring the “Preacher’s Bible.” We want to share two facts about it: A good one, and an even better one. The good one is that you now own a remarkable tool to support your ministry as a preacher and Bible scholar. The even better one is that you now have in hands a solid and outstanding instrument, quite useful to help you in the preparation of your sermons and studies.

coming together, forming full skeletons. Then he saw how the sinews, flesh, and skin covered the bones, forming bodies. Finally he observed how the Spirit vivified the dead bodies.

Let us apply Ezekiel’s vision to our objectives:1. The teachings, the biblical principles can be com-

pared with the laying bones. They are inside a text as well as spread through the entire Bible. These teachings and biblical principles should be grouped in a coherent and logical way in order to produce well-structured sermons and Bible stud-ies.

2. We can compare the outlines incorporated in this Bible with the complete skeleton of Ezekiel’s vision. These outlines have a title that generally corresponds to the sermon’s theme or focus. It also contains sub topics through which the theme is developed.

3. The skeletons can be quite well structured, but they are neither beautiful nor efficient. They need to be transformed into bodies by adding muscles, sinews, and skin. This corresponds to the task of covering the “skeleton” of the sermon with con-tent. This is the task you are in charge of. You cannot run away from it.

4. Finally, the sermon may be ready, well structured, well assembled with precious thoughts, enlight-ening illustrations, and yet to be only a dead body. Your sermon needs to be made alive by the breathing of the Holy Spirit of God. This anoint-ing by the Spirit over your preaching and Bible studies will depend on your intimacy with God. Your sermons will be a blessing in the proportion to which you are a blessed person.

hands on1. Get a panoramic picture of the sermon.

Do the following: • Try to find out what kind of sermon it is. Is it ex-

positive, based in one biblical text only (be it long or short)? Is it a thematic sermon that deals with an issue using texts from different parts of the Bible? Is it an undefined kind of sermon?

5 5 How to use the outlines

• Observe the title. Is it an undefined title or it is already defining the sermon’s theme? Is the title connected with a biblical verse? In case it is, is this text being exposed in the sermon or is it only being used to provide the sermon with a title?

• Analyse the sub points. Is there a clear and logic se-quence in the sub points thought flow?

• Read all Bible verses related to the topics. Is the connection between the topic and the verse clear and evident? Do the verses help to make the topics clear? Do they offer informational resources and content for the sermon?

2. Classify the sermon’s theme. The second step you have to take is to define clearly what is the ser-mon’s subject or theme. It is generally implicit ei-ther in the title or in a introductory observation, although that is not always the case. See below some examples of titles related with the sermon theme.• “Do not let us die” (Hab 1.2). In spite of the title, the

theme is “The restoration of Jacob” (Gen 32—33).• “The Spirit of Grace” (Zech 12.10). The theme, ex-

posed in the opening explanation, is “the true re-pentance”.

• “Kingdom’s heirs” (Matt 25.34). The theme is the kingdom of God.

• “I am the door” (John 10.9). The theme is Christo-logical: Jesus is the door.

• “The Holy Spirit in the letter to the Ephesians” (Eph 5.18). The theme here is the Holy Spirit.

• “A world of evil” (Jam 3.6). The theme is the tongue.

3. Define the sermon’s main goal. I third place, you have to fin out what is the sermon’s GOAL. The sermon is a communication of content, of truths, aiming to change something in the hearer’s life. Knowledge is essential but only as a way to reach a goal. The goal is always the transformation of lives. Note 2 Tim 3.16-17: “All Scriptures are in-spired by God and useful … in order that the men of God be perfect and perfectly prepared for all good work”. Note that the final goal of Scriptures is the “men”, both his “being” and his “doing”. The Holy Scriptures was given in order that the human being “be” and “do”.

Try to have only ONE goal in your sermon. If the outline contains various topics, it would be wise to select just one. If we think about “preaching” in a metaphorical way as “hammering God’s word into people’s hearts”, the sermon is ONE nail you wish to cause an impact in people’s lives, hearts, and minds. The sermon’s various topics and sub topics should be only different strikes hammering the same and

only nail. All the preparation, presentation, and conclusion of the sermon should be directed by the goal you have chosen for it.

We suggest the following: study the outline, anal-yse the theme and sub topics, read the verses and then summarise in one sentence the goal you want to reach through the message. The sentence could have, for example, the following format: • “After hearing the message, my public will be able

to understand that the gospel is the only answer to the human beings’ ultimate questions and they will be challenged to take decision for Christ.”

• “After hearing the message, my public will have a better understanding of the dynamic of anxiety and will be better prepared to rest in God in the midst of the life’s tribulations”.

• “After hearing the message, my public will have a better understanding of the Christian responsibili-ty towards the needy, inspired by Jesus Christ. And they will feel challenged to practice love towards their neighbours in a tangible way.

• “After hearing the message, my public will have a better understanding of Christ’s ascension in the framework of God’s saving plan and will be better prepared to trust in Jesus as their High Priest.”We provide some examples.

• “What do believers have in heaven?” (Phil 3.20). The theme is ‘heaven’ and the goal could be ex-pressed in this way: “After hearing the message, my public will have a better understanding of the heav-enly realities waiting for them and how they could be sure that one day they will also go to heaven.”

• “The righteous will live by his faith” (Hab). The theme is justification by faith and the goal could be defined in the following way: “After hearing the message, my public will have a better understand-ing the justification by faith and would have been challenged to own, by faith, the justification we have in Christ.”

• “An unforgettable day” (Acts 1.9-11). The theme is Christ’s Ascension. Even when the very outline contains several conclusive questions, we suggest focusing the goal and final appeal exclusively on the Ascension theme. In this case the goal can be expressed in the following way: “After hearing the message my public will have a better understand-ing of the various aspects involved in Christ’s As-cension and how to apply them to their personal life.”

• “Seven crowns” (1 Cor 9.25). The outline talks about seven crowns but perhaps you could leave out the ‘crown of glory of the faithful servants of God’ if there is no enough space to include it in your goal.

6How to use the outlines 6

As a result, we would have then “six crowns”: the crown of thorns imposed on Jesus and the five crowns the Christians will receive in glory. The goal would then be concentrated in just one focus: the connection between the crown of thorns imposed on Jesus and the crowns Christians will receive. It could be formulated in this way: “After hearing the message my public will have a better understanding of the various crowns and they will understand that they will receive theirs only because Christ bore the ‘crown of thorns’. They will then be challenged to live a life worthy of the coronation expecting them.”

4. Add “flesh to the skeleton”. We have reached the most challenging part of the sermon prepara-tion: to fill the outline with content. You already have the theme, the goal, several sub topics to give direction to your reflection, several Bible verses to help with finding ideas and thoughts in connection with the topics. That is all ok, but what to do now?

a. Research your own life files. Did you have any experience that you can connect with the ser-mon’s theme? Do you remember anything you have read or heard about the theme? Write down as you remember as these quick evoca-tive thoughts only remain in our minds for about 10 seconds. If you do not register them somehow during this short time span, they will get lost forever.

b. Read the verses related to the theme and top-ics. Seek in them thoughts you can use in the sermon. Be careful not to use to many Bible verses. Be also careful to keep the focus on

your goal when explaining the Bible verses. Everything in you sermon should contribute to reach that central goal you have chosen for your message.

c. Use auxiliary resources. Research in other books thematic resources that connect to your theme. Look for thoughts about the Bible vers-es in Biblical commentaries. Use the Internet to do further research on your theme and on the Bible texts.

d. While preparing it, preach the sermon on your mind several times and you will certainly come out with many creative thoughts – but do not forget to write them down straight away so not to lose them.

5. Harmonise the sermon. Harmonise its content in such a way that it results in a pleasant whole both in form as in content. Returning to Ezekiel’s vision, imagine the sinews, muscles, and skin dis-proportionably dressing the skeleton. We could end up with a body possessing very strong arms but en-dowed with very weak legs or a body with large ears and then a very small mouth. Build your sermon in a balanced way. Do not use 80% of the time in the topic you love and then only 20% in the others. To elaborate a sermon means to harmonise and this implies in cutting all excess. Overcome the tempta-tion to say everything you know or everything you remember in just one sermon.

6. Finalise with a challenge. Finalise the sermon with a strong challenge based on your goal.

We are thankful to the Lord for the privilege of becoming partners in the ministry of sharing God’s Word through this “Preacher’s Bible”. We also wish that Paul the Apostle’s desire would become a reality in your life and ministry:

Study to shew thyself approved unto God, a workman that needeth not to be ashamed,

rightly dividing the word of truth. (2 Tim 2.15)Fred Roland Bornschein

The Epistle Of Paul The Apostle To The

romans

1 1 PAUL, a servant of Jesus Christ, called to be an apostle, separated unto the gospel of God,

2 (Which he had promised afore by his prophets in the holy scriptures,)3 Concerning his Son Jesus Christ our Lord, which was made of the seed of David according to the flesh;4 And declared to be the Son of God with power, ac-cording to the spirit of holiness, by the resurrection from the dead:

5 By whom we have received grace and apostleship, for obedience to the faith among all nations, for his name:6 Among whom are ye also the called of Jesus Christ:7 To all that be in Rome, beloved of God, called to be saints: Grace to you and peace from God our Father, and the Lord Jesus Christ.8 First, I thank my God through Jesus Christ for you all, that your faith is spoken of throughout the whole world.

introductionThe apostle Paul made every effort to pro-

claim the good news of salvation everywhere in the Roman world. For this reason, he made plans to visit Rome, the capital city of the empire, whe-re a Christian church had been established alrea-dy. From there he wanted to go on to Spain. He hoped the Roman Christians would support him in this enterprise (15.22-24). Paul wanted them to know his understanding of the gospel of Jesus Christ.

The Letter to the Romans contains Paul’s most complete presentation of his message. After gre-eting his readers and speaking about his desire to meet them in person, Paul announces the fun-damental teaching that the gospel is the power of God for the salvation of all who accept it, for “therein is the righteousness of God revealed from faith to faith: as it is written, ‘The just shall live by faith’” (1.16-17).

In the first section of the letter (1.18—11.36), Paul shows that all, Jews and Gentiles, are in need of salvation because “all have sinned, and come short of the glory of God” (3.23). Then Paul shows how God, because of his great love, saves peo-ple who believe in Jesus Christ. He sets them free from the power of sin, law and death, and now they live a new life, a life of peace with God and with one another. In one the most beautiful pas-sages written by Paul (ch. 8), he describes how a person is led by the Holy Spirit and how powerful God’s love is, a love which we receive because we are united to Jesus Christ, our Lord. Later (chs. 9—11), Paul attempts to explain how Jews and Gentiles fit into the divine plan of the salvation of humankind.

In the second section of the letter (12.1—15.13), Paul writes about how the Christian life should be lived, especially about the way of love in relations with others. He deals with the duty of Christians in relation to authorities and to one another (13.1-14), as well as with questions of conscience (chs. 14—15). The letter closes with a series of personal greetings and a prayer of praise to God.

outlineintroduction 1.1-17Gentiles and Jews in need of salvation

1.18—3.20 1. The Gentiles 1.18-32 2. The Jews 2.1—3.8 3. All are guilty 3.9-20

God’s way of salvation for both Gentiles and Jews 3.21—4.25

1. Through faith 3.21-31 2. The example of Abraham 4.1-25

the new life in christ 5.1—8.39 1. Accepted by God 5.1-21 2. Freed from the power of sin 6.1-23 3. Freed from the dominion of the law 7.1-25 4. Freed by the power of the Holy Spirit

8.1-30 5. Victory through Jesus Christ 8.31-39

the people of israel in God’s plan 9.1—11.36the christian life 12.1—15.13

1. In the church 12.1-21 2. In the world 13.1-14 3. The strong and the weak in faith 14.1—15.13

conclusion 15.14-33closing words: greetings and prayer of praise

16.1-27

Romans 1 8

rom 1.16the Gospel is God's power

The gospel transforms… 1. A persecutor in a servant of Christ

(Acts 9.19-20). 2. Idolaters in servants of God (1 Thes 1.9). 3. Fishermen into fishers of men (Acts 4.33). 4. Demon possessed into joyful children of God

(Acts 8.5-8; Matt 28.1). 5. Rough people into lovely people

(Acts 16.23-34). 6. Useless people into useful people (Phlm 11).

9 For God is my witness, whom I serve with my spirit in the gospel of his Son, that without ceasing I make mention of you always in my prayers;10 Making request, if by any means now at length I might have a prosperous journey by the will of God to come unto you.11 For I long to see you, that I may impart unto you some spiritual gift, to the end ye may be established;12 That is, that I may be comforted together with you by the mutual faith both of you and me.13 Now I would not have you ignorant, brethren, that oftentimes I purposed to come unto you, (but was let hitherto,) that I might have some fruit among you also, even as among other Gentiles.14 I am debtor both to the Greeks, and to the Bar-barians; both to the wise, and to the unwise.

15 So, as much as in me is, I am ready to preach the gospel to you that are at Rome also.16 For I am not ashamed of the gospel of Christ: for it is the power of God unto salvation to every one that believeth; to the Jew first, and also to the Greek.17 For therein is the righteousness of God revealed from faith to faith: as it is written, The just shall live by faith.18 For the wrath of God is revealed from heaven against all ungodliness and unrighteousness of men, who hold the truth in unrighteousness;19 Because that which may be known of God is man-ifest in them; for God hath shewed it unto them.20 For the invisible things of him from the creation

rom 1.16how can we serve the world?

1. Through prayer — “Thy kingdom come” (Matt 6.10; 1 Tim 2.1).

2. Through the preaching of the word. 3. Through the distribution of evangelistic litera-

ture (Rom 1.16). 4. Through offering for the spreading of the

gospel (Phil 4.10,15-16). 5. Through inviting warmly and faithfully inviting

(Luke 14.23; Rev 22.17). 6. Through a exemplary way of life (2 Cor 3.1-3;

Matt 5.16). 7. Through an active faith (2 Chron 20.17).

rom 1.15true willingness

Be always ready to… 1. Receive the Word with eagerness (Acts 17.11). 2. Offer (2 Cor 8.11). 3. Witness about the Lord (Rom 1.15; 1 Pet 3.15). 4. Fight for the Lord (Josh 8.3). 5. Suffer for the Lord (Acts 21.13). 6. Wait for the Lord's return (Matt 25.10).

rom 1God's righteousness revealed

1. God's gospel (v. 1). 2. God's son (v. 4). 3. God's beloved children (v. 7). 4. God's will (v. 10). 5. God's power (v. 16). 6. God's righteousness (v. 17). 7. God's wrath (v. 18). 8. God's knowledge and revelation (v. 19). 9. God's glory (v. 23). 10. God's truth (v. 25). 11. God's deriders and God-haters (vs. 28-31). 12. God's judgement (v. 32).

rom 1.7what we are

1. Children of God (Rom 8.14). 2. Saints (Rom 1.7). 3. Kings (Rev 1.6). 4. Priests (1 Pet 2.9). 5. Letters (2 Cor 3.2). 6. Fellow workers (1 Cor 3.9). 7. Branches (John 15.5).

rom 1.16six blessed confessions

1. I have sinned against the Lord (2 Sam 12.13; 24.10).

2. I confess I am guilty (Job 42.6). 3. I am not ashamed of Christ's gospel

(Rom 1.16). 4. I acknowledged my sin to you (Psa 32.5). 5. You made a good confession (1 Tim 6.12). 6. I know whom I have believed (2 Tim 1.12).

9 Romans 1 — 2

of the world are clearly seen, being understood by the things that are made, even his eternal power and Godhead; so that they are without excuse:21 Because that, when they knew God, they glorified him not as God, neither were thankful; but became vain in their imaginations, and their foolish heart was darkened.22 Professing themselves to be wise, they became fools,23 And changed the glory of the uncorruptible God into an image made like to corruptible man, and to birds, and fourfooted beasts, and creeping things.24 Wherefore God also gave them up to uncleanness through the lusts of their own hearts, to dishonour their own bodies between themselves:25 Who changed the truth of God into a lie, and worshipped and served the creature more than the Creator, who is blessed for ever. Amen.26 For this cause God gave them up unto vile affec-tions: for even their women did change the natural use into that which is against nature:27 And likewise also the men, leaving the natural use of the woman, burned in their lust one toward another; men with men working that which is un-seemly, and receiving in themselves that recom-pence of their error which was meet.28 And even as they did not like to retain God in their knowledge, God gave them over to a reprobate mind, to do those things which are not convenient;29 Being filled with all unrighteousness, fornication, wickedness, covetousness, maliciousness; full of envy, murder, debate, deceit, malignity; whisperers,30 Backbiters, haters of God, despiteful, proud, boast-ers, inventors of evil things, disobedient to parents,31 Without understanding, covenantbreakers, with-out natural affection, implacable, unmerciful:32 Who knowing the judgment of God, that they which commit such things are worthy of death, not only do the same, but have pleasure in them that do them.

2 1 THEREFORE thou art inexcusable, O man, whosoever thou art that judgest: for wherein

thou judgest another, thou condemnest thyself; for thou that judgest doest the same things.2 But we are sure that the judgment of God is ac-cording to truth against them which commit such things.3 And thinkest thou this, O man, that judgest them which do such things, and doest the same, that thou shalt escape the judgment of God?4 Or despisest thou the riches of his goodness and forbearance and longsuffering; not knowing that the goodness of God leadeth thee to repentance?5 But after thy hardness and impenitent heart trea-surest up unto thyself wrath against the day of wrath and revelation of the righteous judgment of God;6 Who will render to every man according to his deeds:7 To them who by patient continuance in well doing seek for glory and honour and immortality, eternal life:8 But unto them that are contentious, and do not obey the truth, but obey unrighteousness, indigna-tion and wrath,9 Tribulation and anguish, upon every soul of man that doeth evil, of the Jew first, and also of the Gen-tile;10 But glory, honour, and peace, to every man that worketh good, to the Jew first, and also to the Gen-tile:11 For there is no respect of persons with God.12 For as many as have sinned without law shall also perish without law: and as many as have sinned in the law shall be judged by the law;13 (For not the hearers of the law are just before God, but the doers of the law shall be justified.

rom 1.17life in faith

1. We walk by faith (2 Cor 5.7). 2. We stand firm by faith (2 Cor 1.24). 3. We live by faith (Rom 1.17). 4. We fight the good fight of the faith

(1 Tim 6.12). 5. We are victorious by faith (1 John 5.4). 6. We have access to grace by faith (Rom 5.2). 7. We are justified by faith (Rom 3.28; 5.1).

rom 2.4repentance

1. It is commanded by God (Acts 17.30). 2. It was preached by the Lord Jesus

(Matt 4.17). 3. It is preached in the name of Jesus

(Luke 24.47). 4. It is indispensable for the forgiveness of sins

(Acts 8.22; 3.19; Rev 2.16). 5. Repentance is a gift of God (Acts 5.31;

2 Tim 2.25). 6. It is given by God's mercy (Rom 2.4). 7. It happens through faith (Mark 1.15;

Acts 2.37-38). 8. It causes delight in heaven (Luke 15.7,10). 9. It brings multiple blessings (Acts 3.19-20). 10. It should not be neglected (Heb 12.17).

Romans 2 — 3 10

rom 3.10-12the need of salvation

1. Who needs salvation? All as there is no one who does good.

2. Saved from what? a. From the power of sin (Rom 6.18; 8.2). b. From the curse of the law (Gal 3.13). c. From the power of Satan (Acts 26.18). d. From the coming wrath (1 Thes 1.10).

3. Saved by whom? By the Son and his blood (Heb 9.12).

14 For when the Gentiles, which have not the law, do by nature the things contained in the law, these, having not the law, are a law unto themselves:15 Which shew the work of the law written in their hearts, their conscience also bearing witness, and their thoughts the mean while accusing or else ex-cusing one another;)16 In the day when God shall judge the secrets of men by Jesus Christ according to my gospel.17 Behold, thou art called a Jew, and restest in the law, and makest thy boast of God,18 And knowest his will, and approvest the things that are more excellent, being instructed out of the law;19 And art confident that thou thyself art a guide of the blind, a light of them which are in darkness,20 An instructor of the foolish, a teacher of babes, which hast the form of knowledge and of the truth in the law.21 Thou therefore which teachest another, teachest thou not thyself? thou that preachest a man should not steal, dost thou steal?22 Thou that sayest a man should not commit adul-tery, dost thou commit adultery? thou that abhor-rest idols, dost thou commit sacrilege?23 Thou that makest thy boast of the law, through breaking the law dishonourest thou God?24 For the name of God is blasphemed among the Gentiles through you, as it is written.25 For circumcision verily profiteth, if thou keep the law: but if thou be a breaker of the law, thy circum-cision is made uncircumcision.26 Therefore if the uncircumcision keep the righ-teousness of the law, shall not his uncircumcision be counted for circumcision?27 And shall not uncircumcision which is by nature, if it fulfil the law, judge thee, who by the letter and circumcision dost transgress the law?28 For he is not a Jew, which is one outwardly; nei-ther is that circumcision, which is outward in the flesh:

29 But he is a Jew, which is one inwardly; and cir-cumcision is that of the heart, in the spirit, and not in the letter; whose praise is not of men, but of God.

3 1 WHAT advantage then hath the Jew? or what profit is there of circumcision?

2 Much every way: chiefly, because that unto them were committed the oracles of God.3 For what if some did not believe? shall their unbe-lief make the faith of God without effect?4 God forbid: yea, let God be true, but every man a liar; as it is written, That thou mightest be justified in thy sayings, and mightest overcome when thou art judged.5 But if our unrighteousness commend the righ-teousness of God, what shall we say? Is God unrigh-teous who taketh vengeance? (I speak as a man)6 God forbid: for then how shall God judge the world?7 For if the truth of God hath more abounded through my lie unto his glory; why yet am I also judged as a sinner?8 And not rather, (as we be slanderously reported, and as some affirm that we say,) Let us do evil, that good may come? whose damnation is just.9 What then? are we better than they? No, in no wise: for we have before proved both Jews and Gen-tiles, that they are all under sin;10 As it is written, There is none righteous, no, not one:11 There is none that understandeth, there is none that seeketh after God.12 They are all gone out of the way, they are together become unprofitable; there is none that doeth good, no, not one.13 Their throat is an open sepulchre; with their tongues they have used deceit; the poison of asps is under their lips:14 Whose mouth is full of cursing and bitterness:15 Their feet are swift to shed blood:16 Destruction and misery are in their ways:17 And the way of peace have they not known:18 There is no fear of God before their eyes.19 Now we know that what things soever the law saith, it saith to them who are under the law: that every mouth may be stopped, and all the world may become guilty before God.20 Therefore by the deeds of the law there shall no flesh be justified in his sight: for by the law is the knowledge of sin.21 But now the righteousness of God without the law is manifested, being witnessed by the law and the prophets;22 Even the righteousness of God which is by faith of

11 Romans 3

Jesus Christ unto all and upon all them that believe: for there is no difference:23 For all have sinned, and come short of the glory of God;24 Being justified freely by his grace through the re-demption that is in Christ Jesus:25 Whom God hath set forth to be a propitiation through faith in his blood, to declare his righteous-ness for the remission of sins that are past, through the forbearance of God;26 To declare, I say, at this time his righteousness: that he might be just, and the justifier of him which believeth in Jesus.

27 Where is boasting then? It is excluded. By what law? of works? Nay: but by the law of faith.28 Therefore we conclude that a man is justified by faith without the deeds of the law.

rom 3.23our corrupted nature

The Holy Scriptures reveal the reality about the human beings. 1. The Lord reveals what is in our heart

(Matt 15.19-20). 2. The Lord has shown to Nicodemus who is he

and who are we (John 3.6). 3. To the rich men Jesus revealed his avarice

(Mark 10.17-19). 4. Paul says that all are sinners (Rom 3.23). 5. The Bible affirms that we all disobey God's

law (Gal 3.10). 6. We are powerless against sin (Rom 5.6). 7. We all are in a state of desperation (Eph 2.12;

Isa 1.5-6). 8. However Jesus came to save the lost

(Luke 19.10).

rom 3.20the law in the letter to the romans

1. It make every mouth silent (3.19). 2. No one will be declared righteous by

observing the law (3.20). 3. Through the law we become conscious of sin

(3.20). 4. The law brings wrath (4.15). 5. It makes sin powerful (abundant)

(5.20). 6. Sentence the sinner to death (7.11).

rom 3.20what the law can not do

1. It can not declare anyone righteous (Acts 13.39).

2. It can not justify, but only expose sin (Rom 3.20).

3. It can not give us an inheritance (Rom 4.14). 4. It can not reconcile us (Rom 5.10). 5. It can not free us from death (Rom 5.12;

Heb 2.14-15). 6. It can not makes us children of God (Rom 8.15).

rom 3.23-25sin and Grace

1. We are incapable to reach the goal. a. A humiliating declaration: Everyone has sinned. b. A rule with no exception: there is no one

who does good (Psa 14.3; Rom 3.12). c. A total failure: they fall short of the glory

of God. 2. We reach the goal by God's grace only.

a. We have nothing to offer: we are justified without merit.

b. An amazing offer: Only by grace. c. The simple way to this grace: faith. d. The awesome result: forgiveness, justifica-

tion, and salvation.

rom 3.24Justification by faith

1. The recognition of sin precedes justification (Luke 7.29).

2. Justification is God's gift (Rom 8.30,33). 3. Grace is the channel through which we are

justified (Rom 3.24; Gal 5.4). 4. We are justified by Jesus blood

(Rom 3.24; 5.9). 5. Justification was made possible by Jesus'

death (1 Pet 3.18). 6. Christ's justice qualified him to be the one

who justifies (Rom 5.18; Gal 2.16). 7. Christ's resurrection is the justification's seal

(Rom 4.24-25). 8. Justification is a gift, received by faith

(Rom 5.1; Gal 3.24). 9. Good works are the evidence of justification

(Jam 2.21,24-25).

rom 3.23the salvation

1. It is necessary, as all have sinned (Rom 3.23). 2. It is complete: We do not need to do any-

thing (2 Cor 5.21). 3. It is gratuitous (Isa 55.1; Eph 2.8). 4. It is easy to receive (Acts 16.31; John 5.24). 5. It is tangible (it can be received to this day)

(2 Cor 6.2).

Romans 3 — 4 12

rom 4.25what the lord has done for us

1. He was delivered over to death for our sins (Rom 4.25; 5.8; Titus 2.14).

2. He was raised to life for our justification (Rom 4.25).

3. Now he continually intercedes for us (Heb 7.25). 4. He redeemed us from the curse (Gal 3.13). 5. He brought us near to God (Eph 2.13). 6. He gives us strength (Phil 4.13). 7. He became our life (Phil 1.21). 8. He will return to be glorified in us

(2 Thes 1.10).

29 Is he the God of the Jews only? is he not also of the Gentiles? Yes, of the Gentiles also:30 Seeing it is one God, which shall justify the cir-cumcision by faith, and uncircumcision through faith.31 Do we then make void the law through faith? God forbid: yea, we establish the law.

4 1 WHAT shall we say then that Abraham our fa-ther, as pertaining to the flesh, hath found?

2 For if Abraham were justified by works, he hath whereof to glory; but not before God.3 For what saith the scripture? Abraham believed God, and it was counted unto him for righteous-ness.4 Now to him that worketh is the reward not reck-oned of grace, but of debt.5 But to him that worketh not, but believeth on him that justifieth the ungodly, his faith is counted for righteousness.6 Even as David also describeth the blessedness of the man, unto whom God imputeth righteousness without works,7 Saying, Blessed are they whose iniquities are for-given, and whose sins are covered.8 Blessed is the man to whom the Lord will not im-pute sin.9 Cometh this blessedness then upon the circumci-sion only, or upon the uncircumcision also? for we say that faith was reckoned to Abraham for righ-teousness.10 How was it then reckoned? when he was in cir-cumcision, or in uncircumcision? Not in circumci-sion, but in uncircumcision.11 And he received the sign of circumcision, a seal of the righteousness of the faith which he had yet be-ing uncircumcised: that he might be the father of all them that believe, though they be not circumcised; that righteousness might be imputed unto them also:12 And the father of circumcision to them who are not of the circumcision only, but who also walk in the steps of that faith of our father Abraham, which he had being yet uncircumcised.

13 For the promise, that he should be the heir of the world, was not to Abraham, or to his seed, through the law, but through the righteousness of faith.14 For if they which are of the law be heirs, faith is made void, and the promise made of none effect:15 Because the law worketh wrath: for where no law is, there is no transgression.16 Therefore it is of faith, that it might be by grace; to the end the promise might be sure to all the seed; not to that only which is of the law, but to that also which is of the faith of Abraham; who is the father of us all,17 (As it is written, I have made thee a father of many nations,) before him whom he believed, even God, who quickeneth the dead, and calleth those things which be not as though they were.18 Who against hope believed in hope, that he might become the father of many nations, according to that which was spoken, So shall thy seed be.19 And being not weak in faith, he considered not his own body now dead, when he was about an hundred years old, neither yet the deadness of Sara's womb:20 He staggered not at the promise of God through unbelief; but was strong in faith, giving glory to God;21 And being fully persuaded that, what he had promised, he was able also to perform.

rom 3.24we are justified

1. By faith in Christ and his work (Rom 5.1). 2. God himself justifies us (Rom 3.26). 3. We are justified by grace (Rom 3.24). 4. We are justified by the blood of Christ

(Rom 5.9; Exod 12.13). 5. We are justified by the resurrection of Christ

(Rom 4.25).

rom 3.24in christ we are:

1. Justified (Rom 3.24). 2. Sanctified (1 Cor 1.2). 3. Confirmed (2 Cor 1.21). 4. Made free (Gal 5.1). 5. Accepted (Eph 1.5). 6. Protected (Phil 4.7). 7. Made perfect (Col 2.10).

13 Romans 4 — 5

22 And therefore it was imputed to him for righ-teousness.23 Now it was not written for his sake alone, that it was imputed to him;24 But for us also, to whom it shall be imputed, if we believe on him that raised up Jesus our Lord from the dead;25 Who was delivered for our offences, and was raised again for our justification.

5 1 THEREFORE being justified by faith, we have peace with God through our Lord Jesus Christ:

2 By whom also we have access by faith into this grace wherein we stand, and rejoice in hope of the glory of God.3 And not only so, but we glory in tribulations also: knowing that tribulation worketh patience;4 And patience, experience; and experience, hope:5 And hope maketh not ashamed; because the love

rom 4.25facts about christ's resurrection

1. The fact about Christ's resurrection: a. Christ was buried and he was raised

(1 Cor 15.4; Eph 1.20). b. In this way death has been swallowed up in

victory (1 Cor 15.54). 2. The purpose of Christ's resurrection:

a. It is the guaranty of our justification (Rom 4.25).

b. It assures us of eternal life (John 11.25-26). 3. The result of Christ's resurrection:

a. The believers live with the resurrected Christ (Col 2.12; Eph 2.6).

b. The believers were born into a living hope (1 Pet 1.3-5).

c. The believers live a consecrated life (Rom 6.11,13).

d. The believers have a heart set for God's things (Col 3.1-3; 1 Pet 3.21).

rom 4.25christ's resurrection is:

1. The fulfilment of many prophecies (Job 19.25; 1 Sam 2.6).

2. The proof of Christ's divinity (Rom 1.4). 3. The greatest of all miracles (The sign of

Jonah) (John 20.8; Matt 16.4). 4. The end of Christ's work (Rom 4.25; John

16.10). 5. The warranty of our resurrection

(1 Cor 15.49; Phil 3.21). 6. Our union with Christ (Rom 6.4; Col 3.1-4).

rom 5.1-11the fruits of justification

1. Peace with God (v. 1). 2. Access to God (v. 2). 3. Hope of glory (v. 2). 4. Patience in suffering (v. 3). 5. The justified has wonderful experiences

(v. 4). 6. The justified does not get confused (v. 5). 7. The justified rejoice in God (v. 11).

rom 5.1conversion

1. It is an essential need (Matt 18.3; Acts 3.19-20). 2. It is a radical act (1 Thes 1.9; Acts 26.18). 3. It has a glorious motivation (Phil 3.8-11). 4. It has many hurdles (Acts 28.27; 13.8;

John 6.66). 5. It happens through faith (Acts 26.18;

Rom 5.1). 6. The Lord Jesus has prepared the ground for it

(Isa 53.6). 7. It is seen by those living around us

(1 Thes 1.9; Jam 2.24).

rom 5.1the justification of the sinner

1. The source of justification is God himself (Rom 8.33).

2. Justification reveals itself in the gospel (Rom 1.17; Isa 56.1).

3. Grace is the foundation of justification (Rom 3.24).

4. The means of justification is the blood of Christ (Rom 5.9).

5. The way to justification is faith (Rom 5.1). 6. The good works are the proof of justification

(Jam 2.18). 7. Christ is our justification (1 Cor 1.30; Jer 23.6).

rom 5.1what do we have now?

1. The confidence of being children of God (1 John 3.2).

2. The sureness of justification (Rom 5.1). 3. The deliverance from the curse of the law

(Rom 7.6). 4. The salvation from eternal condemnation

(Rom 8.1). 5. The rejoicing of having fellowship with God

(Eph 2.13). 6. A living hope (Rom 15.13). 7. The pleasure of his company (Matt 28.20;

Heb 13.5).

Romans 5 14

rom 5.6-11the lord's death for those who belong to him 1. For whom the Lord died? (vs. 8-10).

a. For the ungodly (v. 6). b. For the sinners (v. 8). c. For his enemies (v. 10).

2. The timing of the Lord's death. a. At just the right time (v. 6). b. When we were still weak (v. 6).

3. The effect of Christ's death. a. It demonstrated God's love for us (v. 8). b. We were justified by Christ's death (v. 9). c. Through it we were reconciled with God (v. 10). d. We will be save of God's wrath (v. 9). e. Now we have peace and rejoicing in God

(v. 11).

rom 5.8the death of christ

1. It is the reassurance that God loves us (John 3.16; Rom 5.8).

2. It is the ransom that was paid for our salva-tion (Mark 10.45; 1 Tim 2.6).

3. It is the punishment for our sins (Rom 4.25). 4. It is an act of obedience to the law (Gal 1.4;

3.13; 4.4; Phil 2.8). 5. It is the instrument of our reconciliation

(2 Cor 5.18-19). 6. It is a vicarious act (like with Isaak

[Gen 22.8]) (Lev 16.21-22).

rom 5.2access to God

To have access means to be in front of an open door, to come near, to be accepted and heard; to have freedom to come in, after all obstacles were removed. 1. How could Israel get near? The demanded

sacrifice had to be brought by the high priest and, in that way, the entrance door would be open (Lev 16.14-16; Exod 29.36; Heb 9.6-8).

2. How is the door open today? a. Through Christ's sacrifice (Heb 9.14). b. Through Jesus, the only way (John 14.6). c. Through him, the only door (John 10.9). d. Through his eternal purpose (Eph 2.13;

3.11-12). 3. All are invited to come in.

a. All are welcome (Matt 11.28). b. All can come with confidence (Heb 4.16).

4. The promises to those who come near. a. He does not drive anyone away (John 6.37). b. He will never abandon us (Heb 13.5-6). c. He gives peace and rest (Matt 11.28-30;

John 14.27).

rom 5.2the history of our life

1. We were created in God's image (Gen 1.27). 2. Were are subject to death because of sin

(Rom 5.12). 3. We were redeemed by the blood of Jesus

Christ (Eph 1.7). 4. We were born again by the Word and the

Spirit (John 3.3,5). 5. We were transformed into his likeness

(2 Cor 3.18). 6. We were put in the hands to the one who

has redeemed us (Rom 12.1-2). 7. We are rejoicing in the hope of the coming

glory of God (Rom 5.2).

rom 5.5the new birth

1. It makes us a new creation (2 Cor 5.17). 2. It gives the life (1 John 5.12). 3. It gives peace with God (Rom 5.1). 4. It brings the love of God (Rom 5.5). 5. It reassures us that we are children of God

(John 1.12-13). 6. It delivers from eternal condemnation

(Rom 8.1).

rom 5.5what does the holy spirit do?

1. He stops the action of the Antichrist (2 Thes 2.7).

2. He enlightens those blinded by Satan (2 Cor 4.3-4).

3. He lives in the children of God (Rom 5.5; 8.9; Gal 4.6).

4. He marks the believers with a seal (Eph 1.13). 5. He baptise and fills the believers

(1 Cor 12.13; Acts 2.4).

of God is shed abroad in our hearts by the Holy Ghost which is given unto us.6 For when we were yet without strength, in due time Christ died for the ungodly.7 For scarcely for a righteous man will one die: yet peradventure for a good man some would even dare to die.8 But God commendeth his love toward us, in that, while we were yet sinners, Christ died for us.9 Much more then, being now justified by his blood, we shall be saved from wrath through him.10 For if, when we were enemies, we were reconciled to God by the death of his Son, much more, being reconciled, we shall be saved by his life.

15 Romans 5

11 And not only so, but we also joy in God through our Lord Jesus Christ, by whom we have now re-ceived the atonement.12 Wherefore, as by one man sin entered into the world, and death by sin; and so death passed upon all men, for that all have sinned:13 (For until the law sin was in the world: but sin is not imputed when there is no law.14 Nevertheless death reigned from Adam to Moses, even over them that had not sinned after the simili-tude of Adam's transgression, who is the figure of him that was to come.15 But not as the offence, so also is the free gift. For

if through the offence of one many be dead, much more the grace of God, and the gift by grace, which is by one man, Jesus Christ, hath abounded unto many.16 And not as it was by one that sinned, so is the gift: for the judgment was by one to condemnation, but the free gift is of many offences unto justification.17 For if by one man's offence death reigned by one; much more they which receive abundance of grace and of the gift of righteousness shall reign in life by one, Jesus Christ.)18 Therefore as by the offence of one judgment came upon all men to condemnation; even so by the righ-teousness of one the free gift came upon all men unto justification of life.19 For as by one man's disobedience many were made sinners, so by the obedience of one shall many be made righteous.

rom 5.8what the lord has done because of our sins 1. He died for our sins (Rom 5.8). 2. He suffered in our place (1 Pet 2.21; 3.18). 3. He bore our sins (1 Pet 2.24; John 19.17). 4. He offered himself as a sacrifice for our sins

(Heb 7.27; 9.14). 5. He gave himself for us (Gal 2.20). 6. He shed his blood for the forgiveness of our

sins (Matt 26.28).

rom 5.8the death of christ is:

1. The result of the most horrendous act (At 2.23).

2. The evidence of the highest love (Rom 5.8). 3. The message of the most outstanding victory

(Heb 2.14; John 19.30). 4. The source of the biggest power

(1 John 3.16). 5. The fulfilment of the greatest promise

(1 Pet 1.10-11). 6. The motivation for committed serving

(2 Cor 5.14). 7. The power to imitate God (Eph 5.1-2).

rom 5.9our salvation

1. It was conquered by Christ's death (1 Cor 15.2-3).

2. It is received by faith (Acts 16.31; 10.43). 3. It is guaranteed by God's Word (1 John 5.1). 4. It is confirmed by the blood of Christ (Heb

9.14; Rom 5.9). 5. It is completed in us by the Lord (Phil 1.6;

Heb 12.2). 6. It reaches perfection in his second coming

(Heb 9.28; Phil 3.21).

rom 5.9what do we have through the blood of christ: 1. Redemption (Eph 1.7). 2. Justification (Rom 5.9). 3. Presence of God (Eph 2.13). 4. Peace(Col 1.20). 5. Access to the Holy of Holy (Heb 10.19). 6. Sanctification (Heb 13.12). 7. Victory (Rev 12.11).

rom 5.10what has christ achieved in the cross? 1. He has annihilated our sins (Heb 9.26). 2. He has produced the peace through his

blood (Col 1.20). 3. He has reconciled us with God (Rom 5.10). 4. He has achieved eternal redemption for us

(Heb 9.12). 5. He brought us near to God (Eph 2.13). 6. He delivered us from a perverted (Gal 1.4).

rom 5.11the lord's sufferings:

1. Indescribable painful (Luke 22.44). 2. Voluntary: “I lay my life down of my own ac-

cord” (John 10.18). 3. Perfect sacrifice: through him we have recon-

ciliation (Rom 5.11). 4. Vicarious: he died for us (1 Pet 3.18;

Heb 7.26-27). 5. Produced justice (Rom 3.23-24). 6. Inevitably necessary (Rom 5.6; 1 Tim 2.6;

Titus 2.14).

Romans 5 — 6 16

rom 6a victorious life

1. What should we know ("knowing …" Rom 6.6).

a. That we have already died to sin (Rom 6.2-3, 4a).

b. That our old self has already been crucified (Rom 6.6).

c. That we have already been raised with Christ (Rom 6.8-11).

2. What should we believe ("consider yourselves …" Rom 11).

a. That we have already died and been raised with Christ

b. Believe when facing whatever new situation.

3. What should we do ("Offer yourselves…" Rom 6.13,16,19).

a. The past reality (Rom 6.19-22). b. The present reality (Rom 6.17-18,22). c. The daily decision (Rom 6.13,16)

rom 6.11two great contrasts

1. Those who conscientiously reject Jesus Christ: a. They are already judged and lost (John 3.18). b. They are dead in their transgressions and

sins (Eph 2.1). c. They are children of Satan (John 8.44;

1 John 3.8-10). d. The wrath of God is over them (John 3.36). e. They are walking towards judgement

(Heb 9.27). f. They will be thrown into the lake of fire

(Rev 21.8). 2. The happy fate of the believers: a. They are saved by grace (Eph 2.8-9).

b. They are dead to sin (Rom 6.11). c. They are children of God (John 1.12). d. They have access to God's grace (Rom 5.2). e. They are close to God (Rom 5.2). f. They are expecting the glory of the coming

Lord (Phil 3.20-21).

20 Moreover the law entered, that the offence might abound. But where sin abounded, grace did much more abound:21 That as sin hath reigned unto death, even so might grace reign through righteousness unto eter-nal life by Jesus Christ our Lord.

6 1 WHAT shall we say then? Shall we continue in sin, that grace may abound?

2 God forbid. How shall we, that are dead to sin, live any longer therein?3 Know ye not, that so many of us as were baptized into Jesus Christ were baptized into his death?4 Therefore we are buried with him by baptism into death: that like as Christ was raised up from the dead by the glory of the Father, even so we also should walk in newness of life.5 For if we have been planted together in the likeness of his death, we shall be also in the likeness of his resurrection:6 Knowing this, that our old man is crucified with him, that the body of sin might be destroyed, that henceforth we should not serve sin.

7 For he that is dead is freed from sin.8 Now if we be dead with Christ, we believe that we shall also live with him:9 Knowing that Christ being raised from the dead dieth no more; death hath no more dominion over him.10 For in that he died, he died unto sin once: but in that he liveth, he liveth unto God.11 Likewise reckon ye also yourselves to be dead indeed unto sin, but alive unto God through Jesus Christ our Lord.

rom 6.4the spiritual life

1. The source of spiritual life – it flows: a. From the Father (2 Cor 1.3); from the Son

(John 5.21,25; 6.33). b. From the Holy Spirit (Rom 8.9-13); from

hearing the word (Isa 55.3). 2. The spiritual life is renewed :

a. By the Lord: (John 6.57; 1 Cor 10.3-4). b. By faith (Gal 2.20); by Word and prayer

(Matt 6.6). 3. The spiritual life is described as:

a. A life for God (Rom 6.11; Gal 2.19). b. A totally new life (Rom 6.4). c. A life in the Spirit (Gal 5.25).

4. The spiritual life should be nurtured: a. We should diligently seek growth in this life

(Eph 4.15; 1 Pet 2.2). b. We should pray for it (Psa 119.25; 143.11).

rom 5.19the natural men

1. Ungrateful (2 Tim 3.2-5). 2. Without understanding (foolish) (Titus 3.3). 3. Unjust (Rom 1.29). 4. Worthless (Rom 3.12). 5. Disobedient (Rom 5.19). 6. Transgressor (1 Tim 1.9-10). 7. Rebel (Rom 15.31). 8. Impure (Titus 1.15).

17 Romans 6 — 7

12 Let not sin therefore reign in your mortal body, that ye should obey it in the lusts thereof.13 Neither yield ye your members as instruments of unrighteousness unto sin: but yield yourselves unto God, as those that are alive from the dead, and your members as instruments of righteousness unto God.14 For sin shall not have dominion over you: for ye are not under the law, but under grace.

15 What then? shall we sin, because we are not under the law, but under grace? God forbid.16 Know ye not, that to whom ye yield yourselves servants to obey, his servants ye are to whom ye obey; whether of sin unto death, or of obedience unto righteousness?17 But God be thanked, that ye were the servants of sin, but ye have obeyed from the heart that form of doctrine which was delivered you.18 Being then made free from sin, ye became the ser-vants of righteousness.19 I speak after the manner of men because of the infirmity of your flesh: for as ye have yielded your members servants to uncleanness and to iniquity unto iniquity; even so now yield your members ser-vants to righteousness unto holiness.20 For when ye were the servants of sin, ye were free from righteousness.21 What fruit had ye then in those things whereof ye are now ashamed? for the end of those things is death.22 But now being made free from sin, and become servants to God, ye have your fruit unto holiness, and the end everlasting life.23 For the wages of sin is death; but the gift of God is eternal life through Jesus Christ our Lord.

7 1 KNOW ye not, brethren, (for I speak to them that know the law,) how that the law hath do-

minion over a man as long as he liveth?2 For the woman which hath an husband is bound by the law to her husband so long as he liveth; but if

rom 6.13what is conversion?

1. The person's total transformation (Ezk 36.26-27).

2. Total surrendering to God (Rom 6.13-14; 12.1).

3. Deeply inner renovation (2 Cor 5.17; Titus 3.5).

4. Rejection of the old nature (Isa 55.7; Eph 4.21-25).

5. Transformation (John 3.3; 1 Pet 1.23). 6. “To become like a child” (Matt 18.3).

rom 6.18we were made free from:

1. Eternal damnation (Rom 8.1). 2. Curse of the law (Gal 3.13). 3. Yoke of sin (Rom 6.18; John 8.34-36). 4. This perverted world (Gal 1.4). 5. Power of darkness (Col 1.13). 6. Fear of death (Heb 2.15). 7. Our own sinful self (Gal 2.20).

rom 6.18we have been saved

Through the precious blood of Christ we have been saved: (1 Pet 1.9; Rev 5.9). 1. From all injustice (Titus 2.14). 2. From the servitude to the law (Gal 4.5). 3. From the curse of the law (Gal 3.13). 4. From the power of sin (Rom 6.18,22). 5. From all evil (Gen 48.16). 6. From the sinful world (Gal 1.4).

rom 6.19what does sin do?

1. Steals peace (Rom 3.17). 2. Breaks fellowship (Gen 3.8). 3. Destroys courage (Prov 28.1). 4. Enslaves (Rom 6.19). 5. Leads to death (Rom 6.23). 6. Closes heaven (Rev 21.27). 7. Makes us fall short of God's glory (Rom 3.23).

rom 6.23God's marvellous gifts

1. The Lord gives rest to the sinner (Matt 11.28). 2. He gives salvation to the lost (Luke 19.10). 3. He gives eternal life to those dead in their

sins (Rom 6.23). 4. He givers justification to the guilty (Rom 9.30). 5. He gives the Holy Spirit to those who obey

him (Acts 5.32). 6. He gives us his word (John 17.14). 7. He gives us his eternal glory (John 17.22).

rom 6.23all free

1. The salvation (Eph 2.8). 2. The forgiveness (Eph 1.7). 3. The justification (Rom 3.24). 4. The ransom (1 Pet 1.18-19). 5. The eternal life (Rom 6.23). 6. The peace (Rom 5.1). 7. The certainty of God's love (Rom 4.6-8).

Romans 7 18

rom 7.4called to produce fruits

Which are the fruits we are expected to pro-duce? 1. The fruit of the Spirit (Gal 5.22). 2. The fruit of justice (Phil 1.11). 3. The fruit of holiness (Rom 6.22). 4. The fruits of good works (Col 1.10; Eph 2.10). 5. The fruit of lips (Heb 13.15; Acts 16.25). 6. The fruits of the work committed to the Lord

(Rom 1.13). 7. Fruits to God (Rom 7.4). 8. Our vocation is to produce fruits (Gen 1.28;

John 15.16).

rom 7.18fall and redemption

1. The believer is still subject to sin (1 John 1.8; Rom 7.18).

2. If not vigilant, falling back is a risk (1 John 1.9; Matt 26.41).

3. The believer who falls back is very unhappy (Psa 32.3-4; Matt 26.75).

4. However the confession of sin restores (Psa 32.5).

5. The confession should be sincere and pro-found (Psa 51.7-12).

6. Those restored become once again joyful (Psa 51.8,12; 32.1,11).

7. They are now eager for other's salvation (Psa 51.12-13; 1 Tim 1.16).

rom 7.19the need of salvation

Every person need to be saved by Jesus be-cause… 1. There is no other way of salvation (Acts 4.12). 2. Sinners lack the justice they should have

(Rom 3.23). 3. People's sins are countless (Psa 40.12). 4. Every person is Satan's slave (Rom 7.19). 5. Fear of death keep people enslaved

(Heb 2.15). 6. No sinner can manage to survive in the

presence of God (Rev 20.11-13). 7. God did everything possible to save the

sinner (2 Cor 5.21).

rom 8.1for the children of God:

1. There is no condemnation (Rom 8.1). 2. There is no accusation (Rom 8.33). 3. There is no separation (Rom 8.35-39). 4. There is no intimidation (Rom 8.37).

the husband be dead, she is loosed from the law of her husband.3 So then if, while her husband liveth, she be mar-ried to another man, she shall be called an adulter-ess: but if her husband be dead, she is free from that law; so that she is no adulteress, though she be mar-ried to another man.4 Wherefore, my brethren, ye also are become dead to the law by the body of Christ; that ye should be married to another, even to him who is raised from the dead, that we should bring forth fruit unto God.5 For when we were in the flesh, the motions of sins, which were by the law, did work in our members to bring forth fruit unto death.6 But now we are delivered from the law, that being dead wherein we were held; that we should serve in newness of spirit, and not in the oldness of the letter.7 What shall we say then? Is the law sin? God forbid. Nay, I had not known sin, but by the law: for I had not known lust, except the law had said, Thou shalt not covet.

8 But sin, taking occasion by the commandment, wrought in me all manner of concupiscence. For without the law sin was dead.9 For I was alive without the law once: but when the commandment came, sin revived, and I died.10 And the commandment, which was ordained to life, I found to be unto death.11 For sin, taking occasion by the commandment, deceived me, and by it slew me.12 Wherefore the law is holy, and the commandment holy, and just, and good.13 Was then that which is good made death unto me? God forbid. But sin, that it might appear sin, work-ing death in me by that which is good; that sin by the commandment might become exceeding sinful.14 For we know that the law is spiritual: but I am car-nal, sold under sin.15 For that which I do I allow not: for what I would, that do I not; but what I hate, that do I.16 If then I do that which I would not, I consent unto the law that it is good.17 Now then it is no more I that do it, but sin that dwelleth in me.18 For I know that in me (that is, in my flesh,) dwell-eth no good thing: for to will is present with me; but how to perform that which is good I find not.19 For the good that I would I do not: but the evil which I would not, that I do.

19 Romans 7 — 8

20 Now if I do that I would not, it is no more I that do it, but sin that dwelleth in me.21 I find then a law, that, when I would do good, evil is present with me.22 For I delight in the law of God after the inward man:23 But I see another law in my members, warring against the law of my mind, and bringing me into captivity to the law of sin which is in my members.

24 O wretched man that I am! who shall deliver me from the body of this death?25 I thank God through Jesus Christ our Lord. So then with the mind I myself serve the law of God; but with the flesh the law of sin.

8 1 THERE is therefore now no condemnation to them which are in Christ Jesus, who walk not

after the flesh, but after the Spirit.2 For the law of the Spirit of life in Christ Jesus hath made me free from the law of sin and death.3 For what the law could not do, in that it was weak through the flesh, God sending his own Son in the likeness of sinful flesh, and for sin, condemned sin in the flesh:4 That the righteousness of the law might be ful-filled in us, who walk not after the flesh, but after the Spirit.5 For they that are after the flesh do mind the things of the flesh; but they that are after the Spirit the things of the Spirit.6 For to be carnally minded is death; but to be spiri-tually minded is life and peace.7 Because the carnal mind is enmity against God: for it is not subject to the law of God, neither indeed can be.

rom 8.1full security

1. The unbeliever's destination is gloomier than the more dense darkness. Heb 9.27; 2 Pet 2.4. The believer's destination is shinier than the sunshine. 1 Thes 5.9; 1 Pet 1.4.

2. God makes a clear distinction between his children and the world. We will not be judged with it, John 5.24. We are protected and reassured by his achievement at Gol-gotha.

3. The children of God have full warranty, Rom 8.1. They are secure, as Noah in the ark. They are untouchable; as Israel, protected by the blood, Exod 12.23. Safe, as the one persecut-ed by the avenger of blood, Num 35.25-27. Protected, as Rahab, Josh 2.13-14.

4. The Lord himself reassures us, John 3.18. His word “shall not perish” is enough for us, John 3.16.

5. We are not afraid of judgement. 1 John 4.17. 6. Who would still condemn us knowing that

God justifies us? Rom 8.33-34. Knowing that Christ has died for us and that the Holy Spirit lives in us? Could the law condemn us? No. Christ is the end of the law. Rom 10.4.

rom 8.1what God has done with our sins

What has God done with the believer's sins? 1. He did not credited them in our account

(2 Cor 5.19). 2. He has laid them on Christ (1 Pet 2.24;

Isa 53.6). 3. God has rubbed our our sins (Rom 4.7;

Psa 32). 4. He has carried them away from us

(Psa 103.12). 5. He put them all behind his back (Isa 38.17). 6. He hurled them into the depths of the sea

(Mic 7.19). 7. He blotted them out completely (Isa 43.25). 8. He remembers our sins no more (Heb 8.12).

Therefore there is no condemnation for us (Rom 8.1).

rom 8.1things God can not do

1. God can not lie (Titus 1.2). 2. God can not deny himself (2 Tim 2.13). 3. God can not abandon those who belong to

him (Heb 13.5). 4. God can not stop hearing our prayers

(Psa 66.19; John 16.23). 5. God can not allow into his kingdom those

who have not been born again (John 3.1-7). 6. God can not save himself (Matt 27.42). 7. God can not condemn who is in Christ

(Rom 8.1).

rom 8.5the holy spirit works:

1. Shedding Christ's love into our hearts (Rom 5.5).

2. Teaching to walk in the Spirit (Rom 8.4-5). 3. Encouraging the believers to take their minis-

tries (Eph 3.16). 4. Assisting the children of God in their weak-

nesses (Rom 8.26). 5. Producing spiritual fruits in the believer

(Gal 5.22). 6. Empowering the believer to be a joyful wit-

ness (Acts 2.4).

Romans 8 20

rom 8.15-17Privileges of the children of God

We are only beginning to understand our pri-vileges as children of God. As children of God we: 1. Are free from slavery (Exod 5.1). 2. Have received the Spirit of adoption (v. 15;

Gal 4.5-6). 3. We know God as our Father (v. 15). 4. We have the testimony in us (1 John 5.10). 5. We are heirs (Luke 15.31). 6. We are ready to suffer (v. 17). 7. We will be glorified with the Son (v. 17).

rom 8.11the seven blessing of resurrection

1. Turning away from sin (Acts 3.26). 2. Justification (Rom 4.24-25). 3. Total surrendering to God (2 Cor 5.15). 4. Productive life (Rom 7.4). 5. Living hope (Rom 8.11). 6. Participation in the rapture (1 Thes 4.14). 7. Great power (Eph 1.19-20).

rom 8.14the great privileges of the believers through christ 1. The dignity of being children of God

(Rom 8.14). 2. The richness of his inheritance (Rom 8.17). 3. The blessing of his friendship (John 15.14). 4. The power of God's kingdom (Rev 1.6). 5. The privilege of the priesthood (Rev 1.6). 6. The preciousness of fellowship (1 John 1.3). 7. The possession of all blessings

(1 Cor 3.21-23).

rom 8.14realities in the life of the children of God 1. They became children of God through faith

(Gal 3.26; John 1.12). 2. They possess the Spirit of Jesus (Gal 4.6;

Rom 8.14). 3. They enjoy a privileged place with the Father

(Luke 15.24). 4. They reveal the Father's character (Matt 5.45-48). 5. They are disciplined by the Father (Heb 12.5-11). 6. They are transformed by the Father

(Rom 8.29; 1 John 3.2). 7. One day they will be received in glory

(John 14.3).

rom 8.15what we do not have:

1. Condemnation (Rom 8.1). 2. Slavery (Rom 8.2). 3. Debt with sin (Rom 8.12). 4. Fear (Rom 8.15). 5. Corruption (Rom 8.21). 6. Accusation (Rom 8.33). 7. Separation (Rom 8.35).

rom 8.17the family of God

As every human family, the family of God is comprised… 1. By the father (Matt 6.9). 2. By the mother (we have a mother up there)

(Gal 4.26). 3. By children (Gal 3.26; Rom 8.17). 4. By brothers and sisters (Matt 12.48).

8 So then they that are in the flesh cannot please God.9 But ye are not in the flesh, but in the Spirit, if so be that the Spirit of God dwell in you. Now if any man have not the Spirit of Christ, he is none of his.10 And if Christ be in you, the body is dead be-cause of sin; but the Spirit is life because of righ-teousness.11 But if the Spirit of him that raised up Jesus from the dead dwell in you, he that raised up Christ from the dead shall also quicken your mortal bodies by his Spirit that dwelleth in you.12 Therefore, brethren, we are debtors, not to the flesh, to live after the flesh.

13 For if ye live after the flesh, ye shall die: but if ye through the Spirit do mortify the deeds of the body, ye shall live.14 For as many as are led by the Spirit of God, they are the sons of God.15 For ye have not received the spirit of bondage again to fear; but ye have received the Spirit of adop-tion, whereby we cry, Abba, Father.16 The Spirit itself beareth witness with our spirit, that we are the children of God:17 And if children, then heirs; heirs of God, and joint-heirs with Christ; if so be that we suffer with him, that we may be also glorified together.18 For I reckon that the sufferings of this present time are not worthy to be compared with the glory which shall be revealed in us.19 For the earnest expectation of the creature wait-eth for the manifestation of the sons of God.20 For the creature was made subject to vanity, not

21 Romans 8

willingly, but by reason of him who hath subjected the same in hope,21 Because the creature itself also shall be delivered from the bondage of corruption into the glorious liberty of the children of God.22 For we know that the whole creation groaneth and travaileth in pain together until now.23 And not only they, but ourselves also, which have the firstfruits of the Spirit, even we ourselves groan

within ourselves, waiting for the adoption, to wit, the redemption of our body.24 For we are saved by hope: but hope that is seen is not hope: for what a man seeth, why doth he yet hope for?25 But if we hope for that we see not, then do we with patience wait for it.26 Likewise the Spirit also helpeth our infirmities: for we know not what we should pray for as we ought: but the Spirit itself maketh intercession for us with groanings which cannot be uttered.27 And he that searcheth the hearts knoweth what is the mind of the Spirit, because he maketh interces-sion for the saints according to the will of God.28 And we know that all things work together for good to them that love God, to them who are the called according to his purpose.29 For whom he did foreknow, he also did predesti-

rom 8.17the children of God…

1. Are born from God (John 1.12; 1 John 5.12). 2. Are in a new relationship (Rom 8.15;

John 8.35). 3. Are intimately linked to Christ (John 20.17;

Heb 2.11). 4. Are children of God and heirs through faith

(Gal 3.26; Rom 8.17). 5. Are not understood by the world (1 John 3.1;

John 15.18-19). 6. Are waiting for the glorious day (Rom 8.19;

Col 3.4). 7. Are people whose life is in the correct condi-

tion with God (Phil 3.13). 8. Are justified through faith in Jesus

(Acts 13.39; Rom 5.1). 9. Are sanctified in Christ (1 Cor 1.2). 10. Are not any more afar, but close to God

(Eph 2.13). 11. Are made perfect in Christ (Eph 2.6). 12. Are Kings and Priests (1 Pet 2.9; Rev 1.6).

rom 8.17the portrayal of our life

1. What we used to be. a. Dead in sins and transgressions (Eph 2.1). b. Children of wrath (Eph 2.3). c. Without Christ and without God (Eph 2.12). d. Children of the father of lies, the devil

(John 8.44). 2. What we are.

a. Made alive (Eph 2.4-5). b. Children of God (John 1.12; Rom 8.15). c. People of eternity (John 5.24).

3. What we will be. a. We will be like him (1 John 3.2). b. Heirs of God (Rom 8.17). c. And heirs of all glory (1 Cor 3.22; 2.9-10).

4. What should we be and do because of this. a. Living sacrifices to God (Rom 12.1). b. Set our minds on things above (Col 3.2). c. Set apart from the world, holy (1 Pet 2.9). d. Wait for his return (Titus 2.11-15).

rom 8.28God's grace is sufficient

That God's grace is sufficient for us… 1. It is affirmed in the Word (2 Cor 9.8). 2. It is confirmed by experience (Rom 8.28). 3. It is assured by the promises (2 Cor 1.20). 4. It is the work by God's mighty strenght

(Eph 1.19). 5. It is guaranteed by God's presence

(Isa 41.10).

rom 8.29five great privileges

1. In Christ we are “known beforehand”: Jer-emiah (Jer 1.5) and Peter (1 Pet 1.2) already knew it. God himself is who takes the first and the last step.

2. In Christ we are “predestined”: predestined for what? To become children of God, to be-come a new creation (2 Cor 5.17), to become like Jesus.

3. In Christ we are “called”: the call happened through the gospel. To be called means more than to be saved. We are called to serve God. Think about Enoch, Noah, Abraham, Samuel, David, the apostles.

4. In Christ we are “justified”: to those who are called, the Spirit reveals what the salvation has brought. It is the salvation that allows those called to be in the presence of God.

5. In Christ we are “glorified”: we can already have a taste of this last degree now as we live by faith (John 17.22). However we still await the day of glorification. (John 17.24).

Romans 8 — 9 22

rom 8.31-35we do not fear. why?

1. God is for us. 2. No one can accuse us. 3. No one can condemn us. 4. Christ died for us. 5. He was risen for our justification. 6. He intercedes for us on God's right hand. 7. Nothing can separate us from God's love.

rom 8.32what is the lord for us?

1. The Bread of Life (John 6.35,41,48,51). 2. A Spring of Water (John 4.14; Psa 36.9). 3. The Light of Life (John 8.12). 4. The Way to Life (John 14.6; Psa 16.11). 5. The Word of Life (1 John 1.1; John 6.63). 6. The Tree of Life (Rev 2.7). 7. The Author of Life (Acts 3.15). 8. The Giver of Life (John 10.28). 9. The Giver of All Things (Rom 8.32).

rom 8.34christ, our wholeness

1. He surrendered himself for us (Gal 1.4; 2.20). 2. He made us free through his blood (Rev 1.5). 3. He made us holy through his Word

(John 15.3; Eph 5.26). 4. He marked us with the seal of his Spirit

(Eph 1.13). 5. He sustains us with his gifts (John 6.54-56). 6. He intercedes for us (Rom 8.34; Heb 7.25). 7. One day he will receive us as his own

(Acts 7.59; John 17.24).

rom 8.32God did not spare

1. The angels when they sinned (2 Pet 2.4). 2. The ancient world (2 Pet 2.5). 3. The people of Israel (Rom 11.21). 4. Egypt (Exod 15.10). 5. His beloved Son (Rom 8.32). 6. God will also not spare you if you do not

believe (John 3.36). 7. Therefore, be afraid! (Rom 11.20).

rom 8.34christ died

1. The Lord died in an uncommon way. The place of his death, the way he died, all that follow it, as the earthquake, the darkness, and the torn curtain of the temple – all these evidence showed that his death was unique.

2. The Lord died according to God's will. God sent his Son and did not spare him (Rom 8.32).

3. The Father gave him the bitter cup. He released the sword against the Shepherd (Zech 13.7; Acts 2.23; John 3.14-17).

4. The Lord died according to his own accord and spontaneous will. He voluntarily offered himself as a sacrifice, as Isaac. It is the volun-tary sacrifice. (Gal 1.4; 2.20; 1 Tim 2.6; John 10.17-18).

5. The Lord died in fulfilment of all sacrifices. It was the last and the highest, the decisive and the perfect sacrifice. All sacrifices pointed to him and ended in him (Heb 9.11-28; 1 Pet 1.10-11).

6. The Lord died as a substitute. He took to the cross all sins on his shoulders (1 Tim 2.5-6; Heb 2.9; Isa 53.4-6).

nate to be conformed to the image of his Son, that he might be the firstborn among many brethren.30 Moreover whom he did predestinate, them he also called: and whom he called, them he also justi-fied: and whom he justified, them he also glorified.31 What shall we then say to these things? If God be for us, who can be against us?32 He that spared not his own Son, but delivered him up for us all, how shall he not with him also freely give us all things?33 Who shall lay any thing to the charge of God's elect? It is God that justifieth.34 Who is he that condemneth? It is Christ that died, yea rather, that is risen again, who is even at the right hand of God, who also maketh intercession for us.35 Who shall separate us from the love of Christ? shall tribulation, or distress, or persecution, or fam-ine, or nakedness, or peril, or sword?

36 As it is written, For thy sake we are killed all the day long; we are accounted as sheep for the slaugh-ter.37 Nay, in all these things we are more than con-querors through him that loved us.38 For I am persuaded, that neither death, nor life, nor angels, nor principalities, nor powers, nor things present, nor things to come,39 Nor height, nor depth, nor any other creature, shall be able to separate us from the love of God, which is in Christ Jesus our Lord.

9 1 I SAY the truth in Christ, I lie not, my con-science also bearing me witness in the Holy

Ghost,

23 Romans 9

2 That I have great heaviness and continual sorrow in my heart.3 For I could wish that myself were accursed from Christ for my brethren, my kinsmen according to the flesh:4 Who are Israelites; to whom pertaineth the adop-tion, and the glory, and the covenants, and the giving of the law, and the service of God, and the promises;5 Whose are the fathers, and of whom as concerning the flesh Christ came, who is over all, God blessed for ever. Amen.6 Not as though the word of God hath taken none effect. For they are not all Israel, which are of Israel:7 Neither, because they are the seed of Abraham, are they all children: but, In Isaac shall thy seed be called.8 That is, They which are the children of the flesh, these are not the children of God: but the children of the promise are counted for the seed.9 For this is the word of promise, At this time will I come, and Sara shall have a son.10 And not only this; but when Rebecca also had conceived by one, even by our father Isaac;11 (For the children being not yet born, neither hav-ing done any good or evil, that the purpose of God according to election might stand, not of works, but of him that calleth;)12 It was said unto her, The elder shall serve the younger.13 As it is written, Jacob have I loved, but Esau have I hated.

14 What shall we say then? Is there unrighteousness with God? God forbid.15 For he saith to Moses, I will have mercy on whom I will have mercy, and I will have compassion on whom I will have compassion.16 So then it is not of him that willeth, nor of him that runneth, but of God that sheweth mercy.17 For the scripture saith unto Pharaoh, Even for this same purpose have I raised thee up, that I might shew my power in thee, and that my name might be declared throughout all the earth.18 Therefore hath he mercy on whom he will have mercy, and whom he will he hardeneth.19 Thou wilt say then unto me, Why doth he yet find fault? For who hath resisted his will?20 Nay but, O man, who art thou that repliest against God? Shall the thing formed say to him that formed it, Why hast thou made me thus?21 Hath not the potter power over the clay, of the same lump to make one vessel unto honour, and an-other unto dishonour?22 What if God, willing to shew his wrath, and to make his power known, endured with much long-suffering the vessels of wrath fitted to destruction:23 And that he might make known the riches of his glory on the vessels of mercy, which he had afore prepared unto glory,24 Even us, whom he hath called, not of the Jews only, but also of the Gentiles?25 As he saith also in Osee, I will call them my peo-ple, which were not my people; and her beloved, which was not beloved.26 And it shall come to pass, that in the place where

rom 8.37Victory

We are victoriou… 1. Over sin, by grace (Rom 6.14-17). 2. Over Satan, by the Word (Matt 4.4,7,10;

1 John 2.13-14). 3. Over the world, by faith (1 John 5.4). 4. Over all circumstances of life (Rom 8.37). 5. Over fear of death (Heb 2.15). 6. Great will the reward of the victorious be

(Rev 3.21).

rom 8.39God's love is

1. Beyond words (2 Cor 9.15). 2. It is unquenchable (Song 8.7). 3. Unsearchable (Rom 8.32-37). 4. Indefatigable (John 13.1). 5. Indispensable (Eph 2.4-5). 6. Compelling (2 Cor 5.14). 7. Never ends (Rom 8.39).

rom 9.4-5seven privileges of israel

To Israel belong… 1. The adoption (Exod 4.22). 2. The glory (Exod 40.34). 3. The covenants made with the patriarchs

(Gen 17.7). 4. The law (Psa 19.7). 5. The worship and the priestly service

(Exod 19.6; 1 Pet 2.9). 6. The promises of the Messiah (Gen 49.10;

Isa 12). 7. The Christ, the highest privilege of Israel

(Isa 9.6-7). a. Peter and Paul were heartbroken because

of Israel's ignorance (Acts 3.17; 1 Cor 2.8). b. However they had their eyes focused on

the restoration of Israel (Acts 3.21; Rom 11.25-26).

Romans 9 — 10 24

rom 10.9unchangeable facts

1. The death of the sinner (Heb 9.27; 1 Kings 2.37).

2. The punishment of the sinner (2 Thes 1.8-9). 3. The condemnation of the sinner (Heb 10.27;

Rom 2.2). 4. The offer of forgiveness (Rom 1.16). 5. The guarantee of salvation to those who

believe (Rom 10.9; Isa 12.2).

rom 10.2Beware of self-deceiving

You may: 1. Tremble before the word, as Felix

(Acts 24.25). 2. Be convinced, as Agrippa (Acts 26.28). 3. Bring significant offerings, as Ananias and

Sapphira (Acts 5.2). 4. To have a good start, as Demas (2 Tim 4.10). 5. To be among the believers, as Gehazi

(2 Kings5.20-27). 6. Be zelous towards God, as Israel (Rom 10.2). 7. Love to listen the word, as Herod

(Mark 6.20). 8. Belong to the chosen people, as Korah

(Num 16.32). 9. Be close to the kingdom of God (Matt 19.16-22).

And even then be condemned (Matt 25.41ss.).

rom 10.9the redemption

1. Was planed before the foundation of the world (1 Pet 1.19-20).

2. Was accomplished on the cross (1 Cor 6.20; Acts 20.28).

3. It is received through faith (Rom 10.9; Acts 16.31).

4. It is manifested in our daily life (Titus 2.11-14). 5. It is admired by the angels (1 Pet 1.12). 6. It is celebrated in heaven (Rev 5.9).

it was said unto them, Ye are not my people; there shall they be called the children of the living God.27 Esaias also crieth concerning Israel, Though the number of the children of Israel be as the sand of the sea, a remnant shall be saved:28 For he will finish the work, and cut it short in righteousness: because a short work will the Lord make upon the earth.29 And as Esaias said before, Except the Lord of Sa-baoth had left us a seed, we had been as Sodoma, and been made like unto Gomorrha.30 What shall we say then? That the Gentiles, which followed not after righteousness, have attained to righteousness, even the righteousness which is of faith.31 But Israel, which followed after the law of righ-teousness, hath not attained to the law of righteous-ness.32 Wherefore? Because they sought it not by faith, but as it were by the works of the law. For they stumbled at that stumblingstone;33 As it is written, Behold, I lay in Sion a stumbling-

stone and rock of offence: and whosoever believeth on him shall not be ashamed.

10 1 BRETHREN, my heart's desire and prayer to God for Israel is, that they might be saved.

2 For I bear them record that they have a zeal of God, but not according to knowledge.3 For they being ignorant of God's righteousness, and going about to establish their own righteous-ness, have not submitted themselves unto the righ-teousness of God.4 For Christ is the end of the law for righteousness to every one that believeth.5 For Moses describeth the righteousness which is of the law, That the man which doeth those things shall live by them.6 But the righteousness which is of faith speaketh on this wise, Say not in thine heart, Who shall ascend into heaven? (that is, to bring Christ down from above:)7 Or, Who shall descend into the deep? (that is, to bring up Christ again from the dead.)8 But what saith it? The word is nigh thee, even in thy mouth, and in thy heart: that is, the word of faith, which we preach;9 That if thou shalt confess with thy mouth the Lord Jesus, and shalt believe in thine heart that God hath raised him from the dead, thou shalt be saved.10 For with the heart man believeth unto righteous-ness; and with the mouth confession is made unto salvation.11 For the scripture saith, Whosoever believeth on him shall not be ashamed.12 For there is no difference between the Jew and the Greek: for the same Lord over all is rich unto all that call upon him.13 For whosoever shall call upon the name of the Lord shall be saved.14 How then shall they call on him in whom they have not believed? and how shall they believe in him of whom they have not heard? and how shall they hear without a preacher?15 And how shall they preach, except they be sent? as

25 Romans 10 — 11

it is written, How beautiful are the feet of them that preach the gospel of peace, and bring glad tidings of good things!16 But they have not all obeyed the gospel. For Esaias saith, Lord, who hath believed our report?17 So then faith cometh by hearing, and hearing by the word of God.18 But I say, Have they not heard? Yes verily, their sound went into all the earth, and their words unto the ends of the world.19 But I say, Did not Israel know? First Moses saith, I will provoke you to jealousy by them that are no people, and by a foolish nation I will anger you.20 But Esaias is very bold, and saith, I was found of them that sought me not; I was made manifest unto them that asked not after me.21 But to Israel he saith, All day long I have stretched forth my hands unto a disobedient and gainsaying people.

11 1 I SAY then, Hath God cast away his people? God forbid. For I also am an Israelite, of the

seed of Abraham, of the tribe of Benjamin.2 God hath not cast away his people which he fore-knew. Wot ye not what the scripture saith of Elias? how he maketh intercession to God against Israel, saying,3 Lord, they have killed thy prophets, and digged down thine altars; and I am left alone, and they seek my life.4 But what saith the answer of God unto him? I have reserved to myself seven thousand men, who have not bowed the knee to the image of Baal.5 Even so then at this present time also there is a remnant according to the election of grace.6 And if by grace, then is it no more of works: other-

wise grace is no more grace. But if it be of works, then is it no more grace: otherwise work is no more work.7 What then? Israel hath not obtained that which he seeketh for; but the election hath obtained it, and the rest were blinded8 (According as it is written, God hath given them the spirit of slumber, eyes that they should not see, and ears that they should not hear;) unto this day.9 And David saith, Let their table be made a snare, and a trap, and a stumblingblock, and a recompence unto them:10 Let their eyes be darkened, that they may not see, and bow down their back alway.

rom 10.14-15four key questions on mission

1. How will they call on the one they have not believed?

a. They need to know the Father (John 3.16-17). b. They need to know the only begotten Son

(John 1.14). c. They need to be convinced by the Holy Spirit

(John 16.7-13). d. They need to be attracted by the Lord

(John 12.32). 2. How will they believe in the one of whom they

have not heard? a. God commanded us to preach Christ

(Luke 4.18; 1 John 1.3). b. He ordered us to preach (Mark 3.14; 2 Tim 4.2).

c. It is our task to witness about him (Acts 1.8).

3. How will they hear without someone preach-ing to them?

a. Every believer is someone sent (John 17.18; Isa 52.7).

b. The ministry of reconciliation was trusted to us (2 Cor 5.19-20).

c. Jesus has commanded us to preach the gos-pel (Mark 16.15).

4. How can they preach unless they are sent? a. How beautiful are the feet… (v. 15). b. They are called his messengers (Acts 13.4). c. They follow his steps (Isa 61.1; Eph 6.15).

rom 10.9the true christian

To be a Christian is more than only using the name of Christ. The true Christian: 1. Is someone born from God (1 Pet 1.23;

John 1.13). 2. Is someone who does not seek to be saved

through good works (Eph 2.9). 3. Is someone who seek God's justice

(Rom 4.6; Rom 3.21). 4. Is someone who build over the foundation:

Christ (1 Cor 3.11). 6. Is someone who confesses Christ as Lord

(Rom 10.9). 7. Is someone who serves the Lord

(1 Thes 1.6-9). 8. Is someone who is zealous in producing

good works (Titus 2.14; 3.8). 9. Is someone who seeks to convert souls

(2 Cor 5.20). 10. Is someone who eagerly expects the Lord's

return (Titus 2.13).

Romans 11 26

11 I say then, Have they stumbled that they should fall? God forbid: but rather through their fall salva-tion is come unto the Gentiles, for to provoke them to jealousy.12 Now if the fall of them be the riches of the world, and the diminishing of them the riches of the Gen-tiles; how much more their fulness?13 For I speak to you Gentiles, inasmuch as I am the apostle of the Gentiles, I magnify mine office:14 If by any means I may provoke to emulation them which are my flesh, and might save some of them.15 For if the casting away of them be the reconciling of the world, what shall the receiving of them be, but life from the dead?16 For if the firstfruit be holy, the lump is also holy: and if the root be holy, so are the branches.17 And if some of the branches be broken off, and thou, being a wild olive tree, wert graffed in among them, and with them partakest of the root and fat-ness of the olive tree;18 Boast not against the branches. But if thou boast, thou bearest not the root, but the root thee.

19 Thou wilt say then, The branches were broken off, that I might be graffed in.20 Well; because of unbelief they were broken off, and thou standest by faith. Be not highminded, but fear:21 For if God spared not the natural branches, take heed lest he also spare not thee.22 Behold therefore the goodness and severity of God: on them which fell, severity; but toward thee, goodness, if thou continue in his goodness: other-wise thou also shalt be cut off.23 And they also, if they abide not still in unbelief, shall be graffed in: for God is able to graff them in again.24 For if thou wert cut out of the olive tree which is wild by nature, and wert graffed contrary to nature into a good olive tree: how much more shall these, which be the natural branches, be graffed into their own olive tree?25 For I would not, brethren, that ye should be igno-rant of this mystery, lest ye should be wise in your own conceits; that blindness in part is happened to Israel, until the fulness of the Gentiles be come in.26 And so all Israel shall be saved: as it is written, There shall come out of Sion the Deliverer, and shall turn away ungodliness from Jacob:27 For this is my covenant unto them, when I shall take away their sins.28 As concerning the gospel, they are enemies for your sakes: but as touching the election, they are be-loved for the fathers' sakes.29 For the gifts and calling of God are without re-pentance.30 For as ye in times past have not believed God, yet have now obtained mercy through their unbelief:

1. They were destined to be a blessing for all na-tions (holy olive tree) (Rom 11.17ss.).

a. Before the coming of Christ, through the pos-session of the Holy Scriptures and through the faith in the living and invisible God.

b. Through the birth of Abraham descendent (seed), Jesus Christ.

2. For a time, they had taken from them the min-istry of being the mediators of salvation for all nations.

a. Through the blindness of the people and their leaders (v. 25).

b. In spite of that, Israel continues to be the olive tree: the chosen ones from Israel who believe in the Lord are in the place of the whole Israel together with the believers

of all nations, who are grafted into the same place the cut off people of Israel was (Rom 11.4-7,17).

c. To this church of Jesus Christ (the chosen ones among the Jews and the nations) was the spreading of the gospel trusted.

3. The whole Israel will be saved. a. When the number of chosen ones among

the nations is complete and the Lord Jesus Christ's church is taken from earth (vs. 23-26).

b. When the Son of God comes back to reign on earth (v. 26).

c. When the new covenant becomes a reality for the whole Israel and not only with some Israelites as it is the case today (v. 27).

rom 11.25-29the people of israel was not rejected

rom 11.25seven mysteries

1. The mystery of godliness (1 Tim 3.16). 2. The mystery of Christ's inhabitation in the

believer (Col 1.27). 3. The mystery of the body of Christ

(Eph 1.22-23). 4. The mystery of lawlessness (2 Thes 2.7-8). 5. The mystery of rapture (1 Cor 15.51-57). 6. The mystery of Israel's blindness (Rom 11.25). 7. The mystery of his will (Eph 1.9-10).

27 Romans 11 — 12

31 Even so have these also now not believed, that through your mercy they also may obtain mercy.32 For God hath concluded them all in unbelief, that he might have mercy upon all.33 O the depth of the riches both of the wisdom and knowledge of God! how unsearchable are his judg-ments, and his ways past finding out!34 For who hath known the mind of the Lord? or who hath been his counsellor?35 Or who hath first given to him, and it shall be rec-ompensed unto him again?36 For of him, and through him, and to him, are all things: to whom be glory for ever. Amen.

12 1 I BESEECH you therefore, brethren, by the mercies of God, that ye present your bodies a

living sacrifice, holy, acceptable unto God, which is your reasonable service.2 And be not conformed to this world: but be ye transformed by the renewing of your mind, that ye

may prove what is that good, and acceptable, and perfect, will of God.3 For I say, through the grace given unto me, to every man that is among you, not to think of himself more highly than he ought to think; but to think soberly, according as God hath dealt to every man the mea-sure of faith.4 For as we have many members in one body, and all members have not the same office:5 So we, being many, are one body in Christ, and ev-ery one members one of another.6 Having then gifts differing according to the grace that is given to us, whether prophecy, let us proph-esy according to the proportion of faith;7 Or ministry, let us wait on our ministering: or he that teacheth, on teaching;8 Or he that exhorteth, on exhortation: he that giveth, let him do it with simplicity; he that ruleth, with diligence; he that sheweth mercy, with cheer-fulness.9 Let love be without dissimulation. Abhor that which is evil; cleave to that which is good.10 Be kindly affectioned one to another with broth-erly love; in honour preferring one another;11 Not slothful in business; fervent in spirit; serving the Lord;

rom 11.26christ's return

What will happen when Jesus comes back in glory? 1. Christ will be visibly seen riding a white horse

(Rev 19.11). 2. He will come back with all the saints and

angels (Rev 19.14). 3. His feet will stand on the Mount of Olives

(Zech 14.4). 4. Israel will recognise him and mourn because

of him (Rev 1.7). 5. He will save Israel from the power of the

beast (Rom 11.26). 6. He will judge the two beasts (Rev 13)

(Rev 19.20). 7. He will destroy the army of the Antichrist

(Rev 19.21). 8. The word of Zech 14 will be fulfilled. 9. He will bind Satan (Rev 20.2). 10. He will start the Millennium (Rev 20.6). 11. We will reign with him (Rev 20.4).

rom 11.26the lord will come

The Lord will come to… 1. Take those who belong to him to be with him

(John 14.3; 17.24). 2. Transform our lowly bodies (Phil 3.20-21). 3. Restore Israel (Rom 11.26). 4. Shepherd the nations (Rev 12.5; Matt 25.32). 5. Punish the perverse (2 Thes 2.8). 6. Reign on earth (Rev 20.4). 7. Restore all things (Rom 8.21; Isa 35.1-2).

rom 11.32Jesus' mercy for the:

1. Blind (Matt 20.34). 2. Those with leper (Mark 1.41). 3. Hungry (Matt 15.32). 4. Sick (Matt 14.14). 5. Abandoned (Mark 6.34). 6. Enemies (Luke 23.34). 7. Humankind (Rom 11.32).

rom 12.1Priests of God

1. The Lord made us priests by his blood (Rev 1.5-6).

2. In this way he enabled us to serve in the Most Holy Place (Heb 10.19).

3. We are priests to offer sacrifices to God (1 Pet 2.5).

4. As Royal Priests we declares the praises of God (1 Pet 2.9).

5. We ourselves are the sacrifice(Rom 12.1). 6. We offer God sacrifices acceptable to him

(Rom 15.16). 7. We will continue our priestly ministry

throughout eternity (Rev 5.9-10).

Romans 12 — 13 28

rom 12.10one another

In church we should: 1. Give support to one another (Rom 15.1). 2. Please one another (Rom 15.2). 3. Accept one another (Rom 15.7). 4. Instruct one another (Rom 15.14). 5. Help one another (Rom 15.27). 6. Pray for one another (Rom 15.30). 7. Love one another (Rom 12.10).

rom 12.11-14a spiritual thermometer

1. Spiritual fervour (v. 11). 2. Zealous in service to the Lord (v. 11). 3. Joyful in hope(v. 12). 4. Patient in affliction (v. 12). 5. Faithful in prayer (v. 12). 6. Sharing with those in need (v. 13). 7. Practising hospitality (v. 13). 8. Blessin the enemies (v. 14).

rom 12.12the spiritual thermometer

We should be: 1. Committed in spirit (Rom 12.11). 2. Active in serving (Rom 12.11). 3. Joyful in hope (Rom 12.12). 4. Patient in affliction (Rom 12.12). 5. Faithful in prayer (Rom 12.12). 6. Sharing with those in need (Rom 12.13). 7. Always blessed (Rom 12.14).

rom 12.12Patience and perseverance

1. God is the God of patience (Rom 15.5). 2. The Lord Jesus Christ is an example of pa-

tience (Isa 53.7; Matt 27.14). 3. We should test our patience:

a. In the race that is marked out for us (Heb 12.1).

b. Expecting the precious fruit (Luke 8.15). c. In affliction (Rom 12.12; Luke 21.19).

4. Servants should be outstanding in their pa-tience (2 Cor 6.4).

5. The Holy Scriptures praised the patience of Job (Jam 5.11; Job 1.21).

12 Rejoicing in hope; patient in tribulation; continu-ing instant in prayer;13 Distributing to the necessity of saints; given to hospitality.14 Bless them which persecute you: bless, and curse not.15 Rejoice with them that do rejoice, and weep with them that weep.16 Be of the same mind one toward another. Mind not high things, but condescend to men of low es-tate. Be not wise in your own conceits.17 Recompense to no man evil for evil. Provide things honest in the sight of all men.18 If it be possible, as much as lieth in you, live peace-ably with all men.19 Dearly beloved, avenge not yourselves, but rather give place unto wrath: for it is written, Vengeance is mine; I will repay, saith the Lord.20 Therefore if thine enemy hunger, feed him; if he thirst, give him drink: for in so doing thou shalt heap coals of fire on his head.

21 Be not overcome of evil, but overcome evil with good.

13 1 LET every soul be subject unto the higher powers. For there is no power but of God: the

powers that be are ordained of God.2 Whosoever therefore resisteth the power, resisteth the ordinance of God: and they that resist shall re-ceive to themselves damnation.3 For rulers are not a terror to good works, but to the evil. Wilt thou then not be afraid of the power? do that which is good, and thou shalt have praise of the same:4 For he is the minister of God to thee for good. But if thou do that which is evil, be afraid; for he beareth not the sword in vain: for he is the minister of God, a revenger to execute wrath upon him that doeth evil.5 Wherefore ye must needs be subject, not only for wrath, but also for conscience sake.6 For for this cause pay ye tribute also: for they are

rom 12.13hospitality

1. Hospitality: a. Is commanded in the Bible (1 Pet 4.9). b. Is part of the good deeds (1 Tim 5.10). c. It is a great privilege (Heb 13.2). d. We should practice it (Rom 12.13). f. Has the promise of great reward

(2 Kings 4.9-16). g. Practice it even with enemies (2 Kings 6.22-23;

Rom 12.20). 2. Examples of hospitality:

a. Abraham (Gen 18.3-8). b. Melchizedek (Gen 14.18). c. Mary and Martha (Luke 10.38; John 12). d. Lydia (Acts 16.15). e. The jailer (Acts 16.34). f. Gaius (3 John 5-6).

29 Romans 13 — 14

God's ministers, attending continually upon this very thing.7 Render therefore to all their dues: tribute to whom tribute is due; custom to whom custom; fear to whom fear; honour to whom honour.8 Owe no man any thing, but to love one another: for he that loveth another hath fulfilled the law.9 For this, Thou shalt not commit adultery, Thou shalt not kill, Thou shalt not steal, Thou shalt not bear false witness, Thou shalt not covet; and if there be any other commandment, it is briefly compre-hended in this saying, namely, Thou shalt love thy neighbour as thyself.10 Love worketh no ill to his neighbour: therefore love is the fulfilling of the law.11 And that, knowing the time, that now it is high time to awake out of sleep: for now is our salvation nearer than when we believed.12 The night is far spent, the day is at hand: let us therefore cast off the works of darkness, and let us put on the armour of light.13 Let us walk honestly, as in the day; not in rioting and drunkenness, not in chambering and wanton-ness, not in strife and envying.14 But put ye on the Lord Jesus Christ, and make not provision for the flesh, to fulfil the lusts thereof.

14 1 HIM that is weak in the faith receive ye, but not to doubtful disputations.

2 For one believeth that he may eat all things: anoth-er, who is weak, eateth herbs.3 Let not him that eateth despise him that eateth not; and let not him which eateth not judge him that eateth: for God hath received him.4 Who art thou that judgest another man's servant? to his own master he standeth or falleth. Yea, he shall be holden up: for God is able to make him stand.5 One man esteemeth one day above another: anoth-

er esteemeth every day alike. Let every man be fully persuaded in his own mind.6 He that regardeth the day, regardeth it unto the Lord; and he that regardeth not the day, to the Lord he doth not regard it. He that eateth, eateth to the Lord, for he giveth God thanks; and he that ea-teth not, to the Lord he eateth not, and giveth God thanks.7 For none of us liveth to himself, and no man dieth to himself.8 For whether we live, we live unto the Lord; and whether we die, we die unto the Lord: whether we live therefore, or die, we are the Lord's.9 For to this end Christ both died, and rose, and re-vived, that he might be Lord both of the dead and living.10 But why dost thou judge thy brother? or why dost thou set at nought thy brother? for we shall all stand before the judgment seat of Christ.11 For it is written, As I live, saith the Lord, every knee shall bow to me, and every tongue shall con-fess to God.12 So then every one of us shall give account of him-self to God.13 Let us not therefore judge one another any more: but judge this rather, that no man put a stumbling-block or an occasion to fall in his brother's way.14 I know, and am persuaded by the Lord Jesus, that there is nothing unclean of itself: but to him that es-teemeth any thing to be unclean, to him it is unclean.15 But if thy brother be grieved with thy meat, now walkest thou not charitably. Destroy not him with thy meat, for whom Christ died.16 Let not then your good be evil spoken of:17 For the kingdom of God is not meat and drink; but righteousness, and peace, and joy in the Holy Ghost.18 For he that in these things serveth Christ is ac-ceptable to God, and approved of men.19 Let us therefore follow after the things which make for peace, and things wherewith one may ed-ify another.20 For meat destroy not the work of God. All things indeed are pure; but it is evil for that man who ea-teth with offence.21 It is good neither to eat flesh, nor to drink wine, nor any thing whereby thy brother stumbleth, or is offended, or is made weak.22 Hast thou faith? have it to thyself before God. Happy is he that condemneth not himself in that thing which he alloweth.23 And he that doubteth is damned if he eat, because he eateth not of faith: for whatsoever is not of faith is sin.

rom 14.10we should be accountable

1. Over our lives (1 Cor 4.5). 2. About our attitudes with others (Rom 14.10). 3. Over our motivations (1 Cor 4.5). 4. Over the resources with which we built

(1 Cor 3.12-15). 5. Over the material blessings trusted to us

(Luke 19.12-27). 6. Over the talents trusted to us

(Matt 25.14-30). 7. The Lord will reward every one according to

his work (1 Cor 3.8; Heb 6.10).

Romans 15 30

15 1 WE then that are strong ought to bear the infirmities of the weak, and not to please our-

selves.2 Let every one of us please his neighbour for his good to edification.3 For even Christ pleased not himself; but, as it is written, The reproaches of them that reproached thee fell on me.4 For whatsoever things were written aforetime were written for our learning, that we through patience and comfort of the scriptures might have hope.5 Now the God of patience and consolation grant you to be likeminded one toward another according to Christ Jesus:6 That ye may with one mind and one mouth glorify God, even the Father of our Lord Jesus Christ.7 Wherefore receive ye one another, as Christ also received us to the glory of God.8 Now I say that Jesus Christ was a minister of the circumcision for the truth of God, to confirm the promises made unto the fathers:9 And that the Gentiles might glorify God for his mercy; as it is written, For this cause I will confess to thee among the Gentiles, and sing unto thy name.10 And again he saith, Rejoice, ye Gentiles, with his people.11 And again, Praise the Lord, all ye Gentiles; and laud him, all ye people.12 And again, Esaias saith, There shall be a root of

Jesse, and he that shall rise to reign over the Gen-tiles; in him shall the Gentiles trust.13 Now the God of hope fill you with all joy and peace in believing, that ye may abound in hope, through the power of the Holy Ghost.14 And I myself also am persuaded of you, my breth-ren, that ye also are full of goodness, filled with all knowledge, able also to admonish one another.15 Nevertheless, brethren, I have written the more boldly unto you in some sort, as putting you in mind, because of the grace that is given to me of God,16 That I should be the minister of Jesus Christ to the Gentiles, ministering the gospel of God, that the offering up of the Gentiles might be acceptable, be-ing sanctified by the Holy Ghost.17 I have therefore whereof I may glory through Je-sus Christ in those things which pertain to God.18 For I will not dare to speak of any of those things which Christ hath not wrought by me, to make the Gentiles obedient, by word and deed,19 Through mighty signs and wonders, by the power of the Spirit of God; so that from Jerusalem, and round about unto Illyricum, I have fully preached the gospel of Christ.20 Yea, so have I strived to preach the gospel, not where Christ was named, lest I should build upon another man's foundation:21 But as it is written, To whom he was not spoken of, they shall see: and they that have not heard shall understand.22 For which cause also I have been much hindered from coming to you.rom 15.7responsibilities towards one

another: we should 1. Support one another (Rom 15.1). 2. Please one another (Rom 15.2). 3. Accept one another (Rom 15.7). 4. Instruct one another (Rom 15.14). 5. Help one another (Rom 15.27). 6. Battle together in prayer (Rom 15.30). 7. Exhort one another (Heb 3.13). 8. Encourage one another (Heb 10.24; Phil 2.3).

rom 15.13how to describe God?

Our God is the God… 1. Of all grace (1 Pet 5.10). 2. Of peace (Heb 13.20). 3. Of love (2 Cor 13.11). 4. Of all consolation (2 Cor 1.3). 5. Of patience (Rom 15.5). 6. Of hope (Rom 15.13). 7. Of glory (At 7.2).

rom 15.13the power of the holy spirit

The Holy Spirit is indispensable to all children of God at all times to: 1. Convince the sinners (John 16.8-11). 2. Enlighten the children of God (John 16.13;

John 14.26). 3. Give them the spirit of adoption as children

of God (Rom 8.15; Gal 4.5-6). According to John 3, we were born again through the Word and by the Spirit. Now we pray, 'Abba, Father', and look forward to being in the heavenly Father's home (John 14.1-3; Heb 11.10).

4. Sanctify (1 Cor 6.11; Rom 15.16). 5. Awake in us the spirit of prayer (Rom 8.26;

Eph 6.18). 6. Give true consolation (John 15.26). 7. Give us power to witness (Acts 1.8). 8. Bring Christian fellowship (1 John 1.3;

Phil 2.1).

31 Romans 15 — 16

23 But now having no more place in these parts, and having a great desire these many years to come unto you;24 Whensoever I take my journey into Spain, I will come to you: for I trust to see you in my journey, and to be brought on my way thitherward by you, if first I be somewhat filled with your company.25 But now I go unto Jerusalem to minister unto the saints.26 For it hath pleased them of Macedonia and Achaia to make a certain contribution for the poor saints which are at Jerusalem.27 It hath pleased them verily; and their debtors they are. For if the Gentiles have been made partakers of their spiritual things, their duty is also to minister unto them in carnal things.28 When therefore I have performed this, and have sealed to them this fruit, I will come by you into Spain.29 And I am sure that, when I come unto you, I shall come in the fulness of the blessing of the gospel of Christ.30 Now I beseech you, brethren, for the Lord Jesus Christ's sake, and for the love of the Spirit, that ye strive together with me in your prayers to God for me;31 That I may be delivered from them that do not be-lieve in Judaea; and that my service which I have for Jerusalem may be accepted of the saints;

32 That I may come unto you with joy by the will of God, and may with you be refreshed.33 Now the God of peace be with you all. Amen.

16 1 I COMMEND unto you Phebe our sister, which is a servant of the church which is at

Cenchrea:2 That ye receive her in the Lord, as becometh saints, and that ye assist her in whatsoever business she hath need of you: for she hath been a succourer of many, and of myself also.3 Greet Priscilla and Aquila my helpers in Christ Je-sus:4 Who have for my life laid down their own necks: unto whom not only I give thanks, but also all the churches of the Gentiles.5 Likewise greet the church that is in their house. Sa-lute my wellbeloved Epaenetus, who is the firstfruits of Achaia unto Christ.6 Greet Mary, who bestowed much labour on us.7 Salute Andronicus and Junia, my kinsmen, and my fellowprisoners, who are of note among the apos-tles, who also were in Christ before me.8 Greet Amplias my beloved in the Lord.9 Salute Urbane, our helper in Christ, and Stachys my beloved.10 Salute Apelles approved in Christ. Salute them which are of Aristobulus' household.11 Salute Herodion my kinsman. Greet them that be of the household of Narcissus, which are in the Lord.12 Salute Tryphena and Tryphosa, who labour in rom 15.16some of the believer's sacrifices

1. Sacrifice of the body (Rom 12.1). 2. Sacrifices on behalf of the gospel

(Rom 15.16). 3. Sacrifices while serving (Phil 2.17). 4. Sacrifices of praise (Heb 13.15). 5. Spiritual sacrifices (1 Pet 2.5). 6. Material sacrifices (Heb 13.16; Phil 4.18).

rom 15.19Paul, a servant of christ

1. The Lord Jesus was his model in ministry (Phil 2.5,7; 3.7).

2. He fully obeyed the Lord's will (Acts 9.18). 3. He fulfilled his mission (Acts 9.15,20; 26.19-

20). 4. He served the cause of the gospel in a

priestly way (Rom 15.16). 5. He was not dependent on men (1 Thes 2.9). 6. He spread the gospel all over the world

(Rom 15.19). 7. His reward was great (Matt 25.21; 2 Tim 4.8).

rom 16.1-2a model believer

1. Paul considers Phoebe as: a. “Our sister”, therefore a member of God's

family. b. “A saint”, that is, set apart for God. c. “A servant of the church”.

2. Her ministry. a. She assisted many people in need and suffe-

ring. b. She did not achieve that through preaching,

as according to the Holy Scriptures this is not the specific way women were call to serve (1 Cor 14.34; 1 Tim 2.12).

c. Paul witnesses that he was also served by Phoebe.

d. Her house was a home for him. 3. The apostle's request and the reason for it.

a. “I commend to you Phoebe”. b. As she assisted many people. c. As a foreigner she will need help. d. Paul felt compelled to help her.

Romans 16 32

the Lord. Salute the beloved Persis, which laboured much in the Lord.13 Salute Rufus chosen in the Lord, and his mother and mine.14 Salute Asyncritus, Phlegon, Hermas, Patrobas, Hermes, and the brethren which are with them.15 Salute Philologus, and Julia, Nereus, and his sis-ter, and Olympas, and all the saints which are with them.16 Salute one another with an holy kiss. The church-es of Christ salute you.17 Now I beseech you, brethren, mark them which cause divisions and offences contrary to the doc-trine which ye have learned; and avoid them.18 For they that are such serve not our Lord Jesus Christ, but their own belly; and by good words and fair speeches deceive the hearts of the sim-ple.19 For your obedience is come abroad unto all men. I am glad therefore on your behalf: but yet I would have you wise unto that which is good, and simple concerning evil.20 And the God of peace shall bruise Satan under

your feet shortly. The grace of our Lord Jesus Christ be with you. Amen.21 Timotheus my workfellow, and Lucius, and Jason, and Sosipater, my kinsmen, salute you.22 I Tertius, who wrote this epistle, salute you in the Lord.23 Gaius mine host, and of the whole church, salu-teth you. Erastus the chamberlain of the city salu-teth you, and Quartus a brother.24 The grace of our Lord Jesus Christ be with you all. Amen.25 Now to him that is of power to stablish you ac-cording to my gospel, and the preaching of Jesus Christ, according to the revelation of the mystery, which was kept secret since the world began,26 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:27 To God only wise, be glory through Jesus Christ for ever. Amen.

[Written to the Romans from Corinthus, and sent by Phebe servant of the church at Cenchrea.]