I Am Not Ashamed

Introduction

Paul introduced himself as a slave and apostle of Christ for the gospel. He clarified that the gospel is about Christ, whom the Father promised, and the prophets prophesied long ago, as revealed in the Scriptures. Paul explained that the gospel is about the resurrection of the Son of God (Ro 1:1-5). Paul calls the Roman believers beloved by God and called to be saints (Ro 1:6-7). The apostle expressed his intent to visit Rome and preach the gospel there (Ro 1:14-15). He proceeds to state the theme of his letter.

1. I am not ashamed

Paul stated, “I am under obligation.” Then he said, “I am eager to preach the gospel in… in Rome.” Now, he says, “I am not ashamed of the gospel. Paul will explain in the succeeding verses why he is not ashamed of the gospel.

Romans 1:16a: For I am not ashamed of the gospel…

2. Power of God for salvation

Paul is not ashamed of the gospel because it is the power of God for salvation. The gospel is not merely a message about God’s power; it is God’s appointed means of bringing salvation to everyone who believes.

Romans 1:16b: …for it is the power of God for salvation to everyone who believes, to the Jew first and also to the Greek.

3. Live by faith

In the gospel, the righteousness of God is revealed, showing how sinners are made right with Him through Christ. 1 “From faith to faith” means this righteousness is received by faith from the Old to the New. 2 “The just shall live by faith” teaches that the righteous person has eternal life through faith.

Romans 1:17: For in it the righteousness of God is revealed from faith for faith, as it is written, “The righteous shall live by faith.”

Application

Every believer should not be ashamed of the gospel. We should feel obligated to share it and eager to proclaim it. Let us heed the warning of Christ Himself that He will be ashamed of all who are ashamed of Him.
Because the gospel is God’s power for salvation, we must confidently proclaim it to every person, trusting that God saves all who believe without distinction. No one is beyond its reach. No one is outside its call.
Since the gospel reveals the righteousness of God, we must abandon all confidence in our own works and trust wholly in Christ. Understand that the righteousness of God is received by faith. The righteous live by faith.

Study Guide

What are the three affirmations of Paul (I am…)? (Ro 1:14-16a)
Why is Paul not ashamed of the gospel? (Ro 1:16b)
What is it mean that the just shall live by faith? (Ro 1:17).

Sermon Notes