Living As If God Exists (Because He Does)Shembull

FOSTERING UNITY At the beginning of the book of Romans, Paul expresses his desire to visit the believers in Rome noting, “For I long to see you, that I may impart to you some spiritual gift to strengthen you—that is, that we may be mutually encouraged by each other’s faith, both yours and mine” (Rom 1:11-12). While he has “often intended” to come visit them, he has been hindered from doing so (1:13) by his desire to proclaim the gospel to those who have never heard it (15:17-21). Having finished preaching the gospel in the regions where he had been ministering, Paul is no longer hindered from coming to Rome (15:22-23). Paul is finally free to come to Rome. He hopes the Roman church will help him as he journeys into Spain to preach the gospel (15:24). Yet, Paul will not be heading to Rome or Spain “at present” because he will be delivering aid to the saints in Jerusalem (15:25). Setting aside his missionary work for the moment, Paul will set out to deliver the “material blessings” from the Gentiles to the Jews in Jerusalem from whom the Gentiles have received “spiritual blessings” (15:26-27). Once he has delivered this gift, Paul will begin his journey to Rome (15:28). Despite the apparent dangers he may face on his journey back to Jerusalem (15:30-31), Paul recognizes the importance of the gift he delivers. In giving it, the Gentiles express their solidarity with the Jews. In receiving it, the Jews recognize that the Gentiles are now members of God’s people through faith in Christ. The gift is an expression of unity among two formerly divided groups (cf. Eph 2:11-22; 3:1-6). Paul is willing to put his missionary journeys at risk to ensure that the Jews and Gentiles are tangibly unified through giving and receiving. We are one in Christ, yet we often neglect that unity in practice. As you consider what it means to live for Christ, remember that we are not just a people of the book, but a people of the body. Together we tell a story that displays God’s “manifold wisdom” (Eph 3:10) as we seek to “outdo one another in showing honor” (Rom 12:10).