RomansSample

Day 7: Unity and Serving

Paul wraps up Romans with a call to unity (Romans 14). Douglas Moo says, “Paul doesn’t require absolute uniformity of thinking, as if Christians need to be clones, never disagreeing about anything. Rather, he refers to a unity in spirit and attitude, an underlying sense of belonging to each other and loving each other that creates a loving context for the differences that inevitably exist among believers.” I love that.

In Romans 15, Paul continues this theme, urging us to bear with the weaknesses of others and to use our strength to build up the body of Christ. True strength looks like lifting others up, not proving you’re right. Paul refers to Christ as the ultimate example of selfless service—Jesus, who didn’t please Himself but endured for our sake (Romans 15:3). This is next-level love… a reminder to check our motives.

Unity doesn’t mean uniformity. The goal isn’t for everyone to be the same but for everyone to be moving in the same direction—toward Christ, in love.

Then Paul closes the letter with chapter 16. Scholars believe that Paul names all of these names in this letter to point to people who are trustworthy and steadfast, people who can be trusted on issues of Christian doctrine and living. Paul refers back to the first chapter, saying “according to my Gospel”, ensuring that what has been delivered to the Romans is the real deal from both the highest Church authority and from Christ Himself, from and through whom all authority comes.

As we receive these things, and love one another, and follow God, He is glorified and worshiped!

Prayer: Lord, strengthen my faith and help me to live in obedience to Your truth. Let my life reflect the righteousness and grace revealed in Your Gospel. Amen.