Gospel truth dominates the book of Romans. The main theme of the book might be stated as "A vindication of the Character of God as He provides salvation to guilty sinners." That is not what naturally emerges in the minds of many. They see the book of Romans as a roadmap, showing us how to get to heaven - how to be justified, forgiven, sanctified, and serving God. Truly this book contains all of that. But as we seek the practical help that the book of Romans offers, we should also be concerned that the holiness of God might be questioned, as He shows mercy to some and justice to others. Does God compromise His holiness, when He forgives sinners? Is God inconsistent in His handling of grace and judgement? Some people don't care. Others just haven't thought further than wondering if they are going to heaven. Knowing God (Father, Son, and Holy Spirit) and making Him known are really important priorities for the Christian (I Peter 1:13-25; 3:15,18).

The title of this message asks the question "What effect does the gospel have on you?" We might begin answering that question by saying "The gospel should give us a deep reverence and awe for the goodness and glory of God." Is this true for you? Does the gospel humble you and reveal that you are accountable to a holy, sovereign, all-knowing, all-powerful God? In turn, does this make the thought of His love, mercy, and grace sweeter?

Romans 1:1-17 - The Effect of the Gospel

Let's look for perspectives concerning the gospel that Paul reveals in Romans 1:1-8.

Romans 1:1 - "The gospel of God" separates us for God's purpose. This doesn't just apply to the twelve apostles, or to Paul, Silas, and Barnabas, or to pastors, evangelists, etc. God is separating all of His people for Himself. See Romans 8:28-29; 12:1-2; Galatians 1:3-5; Colossians 1:12-13; I Peter 2:9-11 cp. Ephesians 5:8.

Romans 1:5-7 - Jesus Christ, through the gospel, gives us grace and calls us all to be "saints" ("saints" = separated unto God for His holy purpose). We are called to serve the Lord. See John 1:17; II Timothy 1:9; I Corinthians 1:1-9; Titus 2:11-14; I Thessalonians 1:5-10.

Note Romans 1:5-6 - The word "grace" may be defined as "gift." The word "apostle / apostleship" refers to "one who is sent as a delegate / representative." All Christians receive spiritual gifts and are called to minister as ambassadors for Christ (Romans 1:6 - "you also" cp. Romans 12:1-8; II Corinthians 5:14-21).

Romans 1:2-3 - The gospel has its roots in the Old Testament Scriptures. The whole Bible is a book about Jesus. See Luke 24:44-48; Romans 16:25-27; I John 5:10-11 cp. II Timothy 3:15-17.

Romans 1:4 - The gospel is attended with the power of God - resurrection power. See Romans 1:16; John 5:24-25; John 6:63; 11:25-26; I Corinthians 15:20-22,45; II Timothy 2:8-10; Hebrews 4:12; I Corinthians 1:17-24; I Thessalonians 1:5; 2:13 cp. Ephesians 1:15-20; I Peter 1:3.

Romans 1:5-8 - The gospel call is of world-wide importance - to both the Jew and the Gentile. All men everywhere are called to repent and to obey the gospel. See Acts 17:24-31 (cp. I Peter 4:17); Romans 1:16; 2:1-12,16; 3:9-30; 16:25-26; Matthew 28:18-20; Luke 24:47; Acts 1:8; Revelation 5:9 cp. Genesis 12:1-3; Galatians 3:13-16,26-29. See also I John 3:1,13; I Peter 4:12-17; Revelation 20:11-15

Next, let's look at how the Gospel affected Paul and how he hoped it would affect others, as stated in Romans 1:8-17.

Romans 1:8-9 - The gospel of God's Son caused Paul to "serve God with / in his spirit." Paul was not merely fulfilling a religious duty. He was not just pursuing a vocational occupation or a casual pastime. Paul's commitment to the gospel was done with all his heart. His inner man was deeply engaged in what he was doing and who he was working with. We may share this same great passion.

• Paul sensed the presence of God and His involvement with him - "God is my witness." (Romans 1:9)


• Paul was full of gratitude for the growing fellowship of believers - "I thank my God… for you all… your faith…" (Romans 1:8)


• Paul was regularly in prayer for others - "… Without ceasing I make mention of you always in my prayers." (Romans 1:9)

Romans 1:10-13 - The gospel of God's Son caused Paul to desire to prosper in the will of God. Paul yearned to be with fellow believers and to build them up (I Thessalonians 2:17).

• Romans 1:11 - To impart some spiritual gift that would establish them.
  
  The Greek word for "established" = "to strengthen, confirm, make stable."
  See Romans 16:25-27; Luke 22:31-32; I Thessalonians 3:2,13; I Peter 5:10; James 5:8; Revelation 3:2.


• Romans 1:12 - To receive comfort together as they shared their mutual faith (Colossians 2:1-3).


• Romans 1:13 - To harvest some spiritual fruit which would glorify God (John 15:7-8,16).