[B]ecause of the grace given me by God...anything except what Christ has accomplished through me...by the power of the Spirit of God—so that from Jerusalem and all the way around to Illyricum I have fulfilled the ministry of the gospel of Christ[.] Romans 15:15b,18-19
This evening, I continued my study of Romans. Using my commentary - Exalting Jesus in Romans (eBook) - I continued with chapter nineteen Great Commission Christians, which covers Romans 15:14-15:33. My focus today is v15:15b-19, which my commentary refers to under the heading "Remember that Fruitfulness Is the Result of Divine Enablement." Echoing what I posted from my initial thoughts yesterday, today Paul highlights how Christ worked through him to enable obedience (v15:18), "by the Spirit of God (v15:19) - throughout much of where Paul traveled in his missionary journeys. My commentary emphasizes this as the sole focus for us in these verses and warns against pride - as believers work in service of the gospel (in whatever role, including pastors, missionaries, lay persons, etc.) often allow results get the better of them and cause an inflated view of self - pride. We are urged to remain humble in service of God and to allow Him to work through us (as we deny selves). My commentary also points to how Paul describes how the entire Trinity is at work here - Father, Son, Holy Spirit - in these verses.
Comment and discuss this post.
My Prayer: Lord Jesus, You are indeed author of all and all I have is due to Your hand and Your hand alone - I am humbled that do so much for me. Thank You Jesus! I am not deserving of such love and blessings. I worry and I have other sins. Please forgive me Jesus and help me overcome and turn from my sin towards You. Help me love You with all of my heart, soul, and mind and love others as You love me. Help me grow in my faith. Give Lisa and myself wisdom and strength. Help us lead Zach and Dustin to You Jesus and for them to accept You as their Lord and Savior. Please provide Godly friends and spouses to Zach and Dustin. Help me serve You, my family, my church, and others. Help me understand, be obedient to, and apply Your message for me today and every day.
