Bible Study July 29, 2024
Romans 1:1 – 7
“Paul, a slave of Christ Jesus, called as an apostle, having been set apart for the gospel of God, 2 which He promised beforehand through His prophets in the holy Scriptures, 3 concerning His Son, who was born of the seed of David according to the flesh, 4 who was designated as the Son of God in power, according to the Spirit of holiness, by the resurrection from the dead, Jesus Christ our Lord, 5 through whom we received grace and apostleship for the obedience of faith among all the Gentiles for the sake of His name, 6 among whom you also are the called of Jesus Christ; 7 to all who are beloved of God in Rome, called as saints: Grace to you and peace from God our Father and the Lord Jesus Christ.”
Paul called himself a slave but most likely it was “slave” in the best sense of the word. He wrote the majority of the New Testament and although he may have become frustrated with some he wrote to those not listening he remained faithful and maybe better than slave would be the word “servant.”
The scriptures contain many letters rather than sermons and volumes of written materials, why would that be? Maybe letters are more personal than sermons when they are conveying the messages Paul wanted to communicate I can certainly see that.
A letter can be directed to a specific need, or to a specific person and best not handled from the standpoint of a sermon. It takes time to write a personal note of thanks or appreciation. There is great value in both writing and receiving a personal note. Here is a good place to allow Paul to be an example for all of us.
Maybe we should also consider stop some texting and pick up the phone and call a friend and check in on them. A spoken word will go a long way as encouragement.
Give it a try.
God Bless.
Asbury Chapel 