Not Ashamed
Reflection: Not Ashamed
When In Rome – Romans 1:1-17
Welcome to a new year and a new sermon series: When In Rome. Today, we began our journey into Paul’s letter to the Romans—a deeply theological, rich, and transformative book often considered Paul’s magnum opus. As we dive into Romans over the coming weeks, let’s reflect on the opening verses (Romans 1:1–17) and the powerful declaration of Paul’s commitment to the gospel.
The Gospel of Jesus: A Bold Declaration
Paul opens his letter with a detailed introduction, establishing his identity as a servant and apostle of Christ, called to share the gospel. In writing to the Christians in Rome—a city at the heart of the empire—Paul declares unashamedly that Jesus, not Caesar, is the true King. This declaration is more than spiritual; it’s a profound and countercultural proclamation that dismantles the prevailing power structures of Rome.
Paul reminds the church that the gospel is not a human construct but the fulfillment of God’s promises, rooted in Scripture and revealed through Jesus Christ. It’s a message of grace, inclusion, and transformation: salvation is for everyone who believes, Jew and Gentile alike.
Paul’s Passion for the Good News
Paul’s eagerness to preach in Rome reflects his desire to strengthen the faith of the believers and share the gospel’s transformative power. He emphasizes mutual encouragement—faith building upon faith—as a community grows together. This is not just Paul’s mission; it’s an invitation for us all to engage in the work of the kingdom.
Unashamed of the Gospel
Paul’s bold declaration, “I am not ashamed of the gospel,” challenges us to reflect on our own willingness to share the good news of Jesus. For Paul, the gospel is the power of God that brings salvation. It’s a story of love, redemption, and transformation, and it’s a message that cannot be silenced—even in the face of opposition or ridicule.
The Roman world was filled with competing allegiances and ideologies, but Paul stands firm:
- The gospel is more powerful than political systems.
- It is for everyone, regardless of status, background, or culture.
- It reveals the righteousness of God, not as a distant standard, but as a dynamic force rectifying and restoring us to His image.
Living Unashamed
What does it mean to live unashamed of the gospel in 2025?
- Proclaim the Good News Boldly: In a world where faith can be met with skepticism, let’s be unafraid to share the love and truth of Jesus.
- Trust in God’s Power: The gospel is not about what we can achieve, but about what God has already done. His power brings salvation and transformation.
- Embrace Inclusion: The gospel is for everyone—no exceptions. Let’s live lives that reflect this radical welcome.
- Remember God’s Work in Us: Righteousness is both a gift and a process. God declares us righteous through Christ and continues to transform us daily.
A Call to Action
As we step into this new year, let Paul’s words guide our hearts and lives:
“For I am not ashamed of the gospel, because it is the power of God that brings salvation to everyone who believes” (Romans 1:16).
May we live boldly, sharing the good news of Jesus with a world that desperately needs His love, grace, and hope.
Let’s walk forward in faith, confident in the power of God to transform lives and reveal His righteousness through us.
Prayer
Lord, help us to live unashamed of the gospel. Give us boldness to share Your love and faith to trust in Your power. Transform us daily, and use us to bring Your hope and light to those around us. Amen.