Thoughts from Romans

It is certain that whatever happened in Rome did not stay in Rome. I have been studying in Romans lately and wanted to share a few thoughts from Romans 1:8. The verse states, "First, I thank God through Jesus Christ for all of you, because your faith is proclaimed in all the world."

Paul was thankful for the believers at Rome for two simple reasons -the genuineness of their salvation and the testimony of the church. John MacArthur writes, "The testimony of the church in Rome was so strong that in A.D. 49 the emperor Claudius expelled all the Jews because of the influence of 'Chrestus,' which was undoubtedly a reference to Christ." Acts 18:1-2 tells us that Paul met Aquila and Priscilla in Corinth after they were expelled from Rome by Claudius.

This whole scenario makes me wonder about a couple of things. Why aren't more people today concerned about the genuineness of salvation? We often use John 14:6 to witness, but if Jesus is "the only way," then there is only one salvation. Is it possible that certain individuals, churches, and denominations are promoting something that is not genuine?

Secondly, does anybody know or care that your particular church exists? Do we have any influence beyond our four walls? There is evidence today that churches are more interested in growing their own kingdoms than seeing the Kingdom of God expand? Is our witness and ministry known throughout the whole world? Just some thoughts.

stay of the paved road

--craig