Romans 1:16 – The Good News

“ For I am not ashamed of this Good News about Christ. It is the power of God at work, saving everyone who believes—the Jew first and also the Gentile.” (Romans 1:16)

As Christians, we know it’s our privilege to share the “Good News” with others. What is this news, and why is it good? Well, some refer to it as the “Gospel.” That is, Jesus’ story and how it involves us all. We are written into God’s story when we believe, no matter our earthly heritage.

Context (Romans 1:8-17): This section quotes our memory verse and discusses the “Good News” to a group of Christ-followers in Rome. Paul has been welcoming his audience in Rome and applauding their faithfulness. Paul felt that the believers in Rome understood the importance of the “Good News.” The news part suggests it’s a message, and the good is something very good—that God loves us and wants a relationship with us. That’s a message everyone should know, don’t you agree?

When we start a relationship with God, we can’t help but want to be closer to Him, be more empowered by his mercy. Our faith grows, it seems, in accord with how much time we spend getting to know God through his Word. Spending time in prayer and worship is also very effective in building a bond and showing our respect. It’s how we respond to God’s love.

Our memory verse is a great reminder to us of what matters. We should claim this verse often, thus making a bold statement of our faith. If we have no shame, shouldn’t our mouths be open, too, unafraid of sharing the Good News with others?

That Good News is the power of Christ saving us from our sinfulness. It’s about being right with God, the one who created us and set us in this world. How we respond to Him determines a lot about how much enjoyment we experience in life.

Faith can be a lifetime commitment for those of us blessed to have been open to Jesus’ love since childhood. I remember all the Bible stories and spending lots of time at church as a kid. Admittedly, it was sometimes hard to pull me out of bed on a Sunday morning, especially in those teen years. But I’m so thankful for parents who instilled in me that being part of a church body is important to faith formation.

Ultimately, it’s all God. God is the One doing the work inside us. I love how the very next verse, verse 17. brings the message alive saying, “This Good News tells us how God makes us right in his sight.” God makes us right in his sight through the work of Jesus on the cross. Spend some time today thinking about what the Good News of Jesus supreme sacrifice means to you.

Let’s pray. Lord, I am not ashamed of the gospel. Empower me to be more verbal about my faith with others. Fill me so that I can be a better reflection of you in this world. I truly believe that you can refresh and revive me and set my feet in the direction you want me to go. Give me the boldness to open my mouth and share your story. In Jesus’ name. Amen.