Romans 1:8-17

Paul had a very special purpose in going to Rome. It was not a sightseeing tour or a gala holiday excursion, but a trip whose very foundation was the opportunity to serve the Lord.

Paul’s words to the Romans express his desire to come to them, but at that point he did not yet know what his travels would involve. There would be arrests, trials, and a shipwreck before finally arriving at his destination, where he would ultimately die. Nonetheless, Paul could say, “I am eager to come to you at Rome.”

As we approach this section of Scripture, we will see the attitudes that enable a person to be a faithful, effective servant of God, prepared to produce.

• The servant is responsive (Romans 1:8)
  • Without exception, Paul always expresses thankfulness when he writes to the people
    • Recognizes their faithfulness
      • Widely proclaimed
    • Recognizes their work for Christ and prays for them
      • Their witness was effective
    • Anticipates the opportunity of joint labor
• The servant is responsible (Romans 1:11-14)
  • He has a desire to serve God
    • He recognizes the opportunity to serve in new ways in new areas
    • There is a mutual ministry that can take place
  • He sees his obligation
    • He has received the good news of the Gospel
    • His call put him in obligation
      • He was to carry the message to the Gentiles
• The servant is ready (Romans 1:15-17)
  • He is prepared to serve
  • He knows the source of power for his work
  • He knows the keys to success
    • Just shall live by faith

From this section of Scripture, we see that anyone who wishes to serve God must approach his service with the right attitude. A proper attitude leads to proper actions, which in turn please the Father and accomplish His purpose.

How does your life reflect Paul’s description of the person who serves the Lord?