Romans - Part 5: ELECTIONSample

The Message of Salvation

As we read the first verse of Romans, chapter 10, we get a glimpse into Paul's heart. His prayer, his desire, is for God's people, the nation of Israel, to come to a saving faith.

In Romans 10:5, Paul speaks to his beloved in terms they understand. They hold fast to Leviticus 18:5. Living by the law, by every dot and title. They are good at it--so they think.

Big problem, though. It can't be done. They (we) cannot live up to God's standards of the law. It requires perfection. One sin, and you're out! One wrong thought--you're a lawbreaker! Doomed!

So, as we read in Romans 10:5, God's chosen have, for the most part, rejected God by refusing to trust in Christ Jesus. Instead, as we read in verses 6 & 7, we see them searching for some "new Truth" to either fall from Heaven or rise up from the abyss.

Read Deuteronomy 30:12-14 and you'll see the same scenario in the days of Moses. They missed it then; they missed it here in the book of Romans, and we oftentimes miss it today.

In verse 8 of Romans 10, Paul tells us that the word (Jesus) is near; it is in our mouths and in our hearts.

The Gospel is clear. The Gospel is simple.

Jesus came from Heaven to Earth to live among us, suffer, and die a brutal death on an ugly cross. And after 3 days in a borrowed tomb, Jesus walked out, risen, defeating death and hell. There it is--what they were looking for--the coming down and the rising up!! (vs. 6&7) Right in front of them! Right in front of us! Paul wanted them to know the Gospel truth, and he wanted us to know it, also! God's law doesn't save us--God's beloved Son does!

If we, by faith (a gift from God), believe in our hearts. and with our mouths profess Jesus as our Lord and Savior--then Jesus will change everything!

The simple and profound message of salvation! Thanks be to God!!

-Mike DeJager