Romans 1 / October 14 - It's a faith thing

Let's kick of Romans!
Having just finished Acts (I read even when I didn't post), you might be wondering where Romans fits... since Paul is already in Rome. Well, Paul's letter to the Romans was actually written between the 18th and 21st chapters of Acts, right before Paul actually gets there (actually several months/a year before).

Paul is pretty clear in this chapter so I won't bore you with what you can plainly and directly read for yourself.
But I want to focus your attention on verses 16,17 where Paul says "I am not ashamed of the gospel, because it is the power of God for the salvation of everyone who believes: first for the Jew, then for the Gentile. For in the gospel a righteousness from God is revealed, a righteousness that is by faith from first to last, just as it is written: "The righteous will live by faith."

First, why should we (Christianity as a whole) be ashamed of what is the greatest expression of the power of God - Salvation through the blood of His Son Jesus Christ. The message went first to the Jews, who did not all wholeheartedly receive it, and then to the Gentiles where it exploded into the rest of the world.

But look at the last statement. In the message of hope concerning Jesus (the Gospel - Bible) there is a righteousness from God that is about faith. and then Paul quotes the Old Testament, the righteous will live by faith.

Here's the bottom line. Your church attendance won't save you. Your money, tithes and offerings, won't save you. Your "morals" or "ethics" won't save you. Your family history or genealogy won't save you. Your kids, grandma, parents or dog won't save you.

Only your faith in the one and only Son of God will save you. Did He die on the cross for you? Did He rise from the dead? Did He go to His father in Heaven? Did His death on the cross pay your price and free you from the guilt and punishment for sin?

then you are well on your way to a righteousness that comes through faith. Live like it!