Text: Romans 1:16-17
“For I am not ashamed of the gospel, because it is the power of God that brings salvation to everyone who believes: first to the Jew, then to the Gentile. For in the gospel the righteousness of God is revealed—a righteousness that is by faith from first to last, just as it is written: ‘The righteous will live by faith.’”
Introduction: Bold Faith in a Bold Gospel
Have you ever felt the pressure to hide your faith? In a culture that often dismisses or opposes the message of Jesus, it can be tempting to stay quiet. But Paul begins his letter to the Romans with an extraordinary declaration: “I am not ashamed of the gospel.” These verses remind us that the gospel is not just a message—it is the power of God that saves and transforms lives. Let’s explore what it means to be unashamed of the gospel and how the righteousness of God through faith shapes how we live.
1. The Power of the Gospel (Romans 1:16)
Paul declares that the gospel is the “power of God for salvation.” The word “power” (Greek: dynamis) reminds us that this message isn’t ordinary. It’s not just an inspiring philosophy or a motivational speech—it carries the same power that raised Jesus from the dead (Ephesians 1:19-20).
- Salvation for all: Paul emphasizes that this salvation is for everyone who believes—first for the Jew, then for the Gentile. The gospel is inclusive, tearing down barriers between cultures, races, and nations.
- Why we should not be ashamed: The world may mock the gospel, calling it foolish or irrelevant (1 Corinthians 1:18). Yet, Paul encourages us to stand firm. The gospel offers real hope—something the world cannot provide.
Application:
Are we bold enough to share this message with others? Do we believe in its power to change lives? Being unashamed means living with the conviction that the gospel is what the world desperately needs.
2. The Righteousness of God Revealed (Romans 1:17)
In verse 17, Paul shifts focus from the power of the gospel to the righteousness of God. What does this mean? This righteousness is God’s way of making sinners right with Him—not through works, but through faith.
- Faith from first to last: The phrase “from faith to faith” means that the Christian life begins, continues, and ends with faith. There is no point where we stop relying on God and start relying on ourselves.
- Living by faith: Paul quotes from Habakkuk 2:4—“The righteous will live by faith.” Faith isn’t just how we begin our journey with God; it’s how we walk every day.
Application:
We live in a performance-driven world where success is measured by what we do. But in God’s kingdom, righteousness is a gift, not a reward. Have we embraced this gift by faith? Are we daily trusting God to shape us into who He wants us to be?
3. How the Gospel Changes Us
When we grasp the power of the gospel and the righteousness of God, it changes everything.
- Confidence in God’s grace: We don’t have to hide our failures or weaknesses, because our identity is secure in Christ.
- Compassion for others: Knowing that salvation is for everyone pushes us to share the gospel boldly—with family, friends, and even strangers.
- Hope through trials: Faith in the righteousness of God sustains us, even when life is hard. We trust not in our circumstances but in the One who holds our future.
Conclusion: Living Unashamed
To live unashamed of the gospel is to live by faith—daily relying on God’s power and grace. Romans 1:16-17 is a call to boldness, reminding us that the gospel is not just good advice but good news. It is the power of God to save, restore, and make us righteous.
Challenge:
This week, ask God to show you one person to share the gospel with. It could be through a word of encouragement, an act of kindness, or even a conversation about your faith. Be bold, knowing that the message you carry is life-changing.
Prayer:
Lord, thank You for the power of the gospel that saves us and brings us into right relationship with You. Help us to live by faith and boldly share this good news with others. Make us unashamed of the gospel, trusting that it is Your power for salvation. Amen.