Romans 1:8-10
A three-week study in prayer, presence, power.
Thanksgiving is a normal part of life (and of greetings to letters!) But Paul also will shortly use thanksgiving as an important part of his explanation of sin.
1. Keep thanksgivings first.
2. We, likewise, have access for prayers and thanksgivings through our Savior and Messiah.
“. . . through Christ alone we possess both grace and the granting of prayer, that we first become children of God, entitled to call upon Him, and then also receive what we need for ourselves and for others. Therefore wherever there is a Christian, there is none other than the Holy Spirit, who does nothing but pray without ceasing. . . . A Christian without prayer is just as impossible as a living person without a pulse.”
3. Find and treasure faith in all the world.
Paul affirms his affection, thought, care, and attention for the Roman church from afar—even invoking the name of God in an oath! Why is this so important to him?
4. The Godward heart experiences the New Testament radical intensification of worship.
What Must I Do?
1. Pray over and over again. (“asking”)
2. Try your best. (“somehow”)
3. Trust God’s will. (“by God’s will”)
Radical God-Dependence
Join us as we prayerfully study Paul’s Epistle to the Romans, a letter that has strengthened the church and enriched believers throughout church history.
