This morning/afternoon, I continued my study of Romans. Using my commentary - Exalting Jesus in Romans (eBook) - I started chapter fourteen The Faithful Evangelist, which covers Romans 9:30-10:21. My focus today is Romans 10:14-10:21, which my commentary refers to under the heading The Urgency of Evangelism. Paul has focused much of his writing in Romans 9-10 on anguish for the unbelief Jews, how this has not been the result of the failure of God's Word, but instead it has been part of God's plan to save people from all nations Jews and Gentiles alike - starting with a Jewish remnant - not all of the Jews. Yesterday, my post emphasized how it is God alone, faith alone, and grace alone that saves and how our heart condition and zeal for God are key. This morning in 10:14-21, Paul once again leans on the Old Testament (Deuteronomy to demonstrate how we have an obligation and are called by God to share the Good News, but again, by plan and design, there are those who will find God who were not seeking and those who God has shown Himself but did not ask for God (v20, Isaiah 65:1).
My commentary wants us to see clearly Paul's reference of Isaiah 52:7 where those who share the Good News have "beautiful feet" despite how "messengers normally traveled on foot...[and how the feet] might be dirty and smell[y] after a long, hot journey." Paul continues as he states how (by God's plan and design) that although not all who hear believe (v16), the commentary encourages us to continue to share the Good News. Paul once again extensively references the Old Testament - see also Deuteronomy 30, 32; Isaiah 53; Psalm 19.
Comment and discuss this post here.
My Prayer: Lord Jesus, You are an amazing God who loves me and who has given me the gift of faith - of hearing and accepting Jesus as my Savior. Thank You Jesus! I am not deserving of such a gift - the greatest gift of all time. I continue to sin...including worry, harsh words, etc. 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. Please heal Lisa of her cancer and from the side effects of chemo. Help us lead Zach and Dustin to You Jesus and for them to choose 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.
