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Romans, Part 33 Series
Contributed by T.j. Conwell on Apr 14, 2011 (message contributor)
Summary: Paul charges the Jews in Rome to show them how much God cares about His creation; even to the point of repeatedly extending His hand of mercy to all that would hear the Gospel, including the obstinate and disobedient.
Romans, Part 33
Romans 10:16-21
Introduction
- Each of us has some portion of the Gospel ministry; even today in 2011
-- As Paul writes to the church in Rome, he’s telling them to get out and do it
-- He is not sugar coating, but getting them to examine their calling MUCH deeper
- We are each called to respond … to minister … to witness … to deliver
- It is the output of Grace: We take Grace in; and out comes its testimony
- Stand and read Romans 10:16-21 / Pray
Point 1 – Isaiah asks, “Who has believed? (16-19)
- Seeking confirmation
- Looking for assurance
-- Preachers see this now and wonder if others are hearing the Word
- APP: Faith is built on hearing; we must proclaim it for others to hear it!
- Critical question then is, “Did others grow in Faith?”
-- Consider all that have preached the Word since the beginning of time
-- Prophets, Believers, Jesus, Disciples, Pastors …
-- Did they hear? Absolutely!
- TRANS: From this, others grow in faith
Point 2 – Why didn’t Israel understand? (19-20)
- Moses: Others will desire to draw closer
- Isaiah: God’s revelation comes to all (even those who DON’T seek Him)
- APP: God still seeks us; all; to come to the cross and be healed
- His hand is STILL extended (even to those who turn away)
- Paul’s word choice:
-- Disobedient: refusal to obey
-- Obstinate: Stubbornly adhering to your own opinion
- APP: Even in all of this … God STILL calls out to us
-- He still desires us to turn to Him and to seek Him out in all things
Conclusion
- How much do we need to turn to Him?
-- Psalm 31:14-16, “But I trust in you, LORD; I say, “You are my God.” My times are in your hands; deliver me from the hands of my enemies, from those who pursue me. Let your face shine on your servant; save me in your unfailing love.”
- Pray