Romans Part 6: RESPONSESample

A Gospel Benediction

Today we wrap up Paul's letter to the Romans with a final benediction. This benediction serves as a closing blessing to the Christian reader. I thought I would take some time to unpack this beautiful blessing for you,

"Now to him who is able to strengthen you" - God is the one doing the work!

The Greek word for the work that God is doing is translated as "strengthen”(ESV) or “establish” (NASB). This is not simply saving lost souls; it is changing hearts! As we like to say at Cornerstone, “ Jesus Changes Everything!” I love how Tim Keller explains this phrase in his commentary on Romans:

Paul has shown in Romans how the gospel not only saves us (chapters 1–5), but also how it then changes us (chapters 6–8; 12–15). If we believe the gospel, God is working powerfully through it, in us. We need never move away from it

"According to my gospel and the preaching of Jesus Christ" - Paul's "gospel" is Jesus Christ.

This gospel is not about being a good person, getting helpful tips on how to live a good life, or even about getting out of hell. The Gospel is about the good news that Jesus Changes Everything! This is the Gospel of the Kingdom of God. It is the revelation of the mystery that Paul proclaims has been revealed in Christ!

"The command of the eternal God" - this is the story God has written/ordained!

God the Father sent Jesus Christ, His only Son, to us, in the midst of our sin and misery, to save us! Jesus lived a perfect life; died for our sins; was resurrected from the dead; and ascended to heaven to reign by His Spirit in the changed, redeemed hearts of His adopted heirs (that's us)!

"Bring about the obedience of faith" - Faith is the purpose.

As we have learned throughout this letter, faith is not merely a mental assent; faith relates to allegiance. True faith in Christ will produce obedience...faith is not passive; it is active! This is the faith Paul is calling us to; faith that confesses with our mouths and believes in our hearts that Jesus is king! Not only that He died for our sins, but that He has resurrected and at this very moment, He is reigning in the realm of the hearts of His people!

"To the only wise God be glory forevermore through Jesus Christ" - Doxology is our response!

This reminds me of a song we sing sometimes in Church, "How can I keep from singing his praise?" In light of all that God has done, in light of the wonder of the gospel that Paul so beautifully and powerfully explained in this letter, how can we keep from singing the praises of Jesus? My prayer is that this letter has produced in you a harvest of praise!

Amen? - Amen!!!

Logan Beardsley