What Romans 1:8-15 says:
Paul is saying, I’m thankful for you because your faith is spreading throughout the world. Therefore I want to visit so I can stir your faith up by preaching the gospel to you.
What is faith?
In Romans, Paul is talking primarily about faith as trust in Jesus Christ that saves people from the grip, guilt, and filth of sin.
1. Famous faith is the goal.
I thank my God through Jesus Christ for you all, because your faith is being proclaimed throughout the whole world.
What are you known for? What is your church known for? As Christians, we must be known for our faith. People must realize that our God and our gospel is real. Or at least it must be evident that we believe it’s real.
2. Mutual faith burns hotter than solitary faith.
…that I may be encouraged together with you while among you, each of us by the other’s faith, both yours and mine.
My faith alone is a torch. When you and others join me, it becomes a bonfire. If your faith is flickering, get next to someone whose faith is fiery. If you see someone whose flame is dying, go encourage them with yours.
3. The gospel stokes the fire.
So, for my part, I am eager to preach the gospel to you…
The good news that Jesus lived the life we’ve failed to live, died the death we deserve to free those who believe from sin’s grip, guilt, and filth is what stokes the flames of faith. It blows life into faith both initially (when one get’s saved) and daily.
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