Romans 15:1-13

We who have strong faith should help the weak with their problems. We should not please only ourselves. Each of us should please our neighbors. Let us do what is good for them in order to build them up. Even Christ did not please himself. It is written, “The bad things people have said about you have been aimed at me also.” Everything written in the past was written to teach us. The Scriptures give us strength to go on. They encourage us and give us hope. Our God is a God who strengthens and encourages you. May he give you the same attitude toward one another that Christ Jesus had. Then you can give glory to God with one mind and voice. He is the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ. Christ has accepted you. So accept one another in order to bring praise to God. I tell you that Christ has become a servant of the Jews. He teaches us that God is true. He shows us that God will keep the promises he made to the founders of our nation. Jesus became a servant of the Jews. He did this so that the Gentiles might give glory to God for his mercy. It is written, “I will praise you among the Gentiles. I will sing the praises of your name.” Again it says, “You Gentiles, be full of joy. Be joyful together with God’s people.” And again it says, “All you Gentiles, praise the Lord. Let all the nations sing praises to him.” And Isaiah says, “The Root of Jesse will grow up quickly. He will rule over the nations. The Gentiles will put their hope in him.” May the God who gives hope fill you with great joy. May you have perfect peace as you trust in him. May the power of the Holy Spirit fill you with hope.