Romans 10:5-21 Everyone Who Believes
Paul brings us to the most important part of this whole book. The “must have” pieces for salvation, and who can have these pieces.
The bottom line in Paul’s letter is this: “If you confess with your mouth that Jesus is Lord and believe in your heart that God raised Him from the dead, you will be saved. For with the heart one believes and is justified, and with the mouth one confesses and is saved. For the Scripture says, ‘Everyone who believes in Him will not be put to shame’” (verses 9-11).
Not because of our works. Not because we say the right words. Not because we belong to the right group. But because of the work Jesus did on our behalf.
If you look at this verse carefully you could twist it around to being “works.” Believing and confessing are action words. But here is the difference. You are not causing something to happen or stocking some “good deed” into your righteousness basket by believing or confessing. You are agreeing with what Jesus said and did. You are acknowledging that HE did the works for you. You are recognizing that this free gift is for you and acknowledging receipt of it. That is a “Thank You” not a “Good enough now?”
Paul also tells us that EVERYONE is included in this invitation. Not just the Jew but the Gentile too. Not just the old but the young too. Not only the free but the slave too. Not just the men but the women too. ALL OF US. Not even only the “good” but the “bad” too. Jesus loves us all and calls to each of us.
So it is time to tell everyone everywhere about this amazing gift God has for them. Will you be His hands and feet? He is calling each of us to share His good news. How can others hear unless we share what we have received.
Father God, thank You for letting me share this way. I’m not good at the face to face sharing with people I don’t know. I share with my family and pray they actually listen. I’m no evangelist but the message You have given me is too wonderful not to share. You Love Me! You Love my Neighbor too! Thank You for that love. Thank You for Your gift of salvation.
Lord Jesus, thank You for every step You took in this life to bring me this amazing gift of love. I can never repay You for all You have done for me. But I will try by giving You my heart to do with it as You please.
