Read through the Bible in 2 Years: Romans 1

This one chapter addresses so many modern “hot-button” issues. Jesus is the only way to God. God created the universe. Homosexual relations are shameful acts. Whew! As Christians, we need to align ourselves with what God has clearly spoken, rather than bowing down under the waves of our culture.

We need to be prepared to answer when Satan whispers to us, “Did God actually say…” like he did to Eve in the garden of Eden many centuries ago. We may not have all the answers, but we need to know the Word. When someone asks you, “Where does God say that homosexuality is a sin?” or “Where does the Bible say that God created the world?” will you be able to answer them?

But, let me add a caveat here. As much as I want every Christian to be able to defend their position on these cultural issues, I even more deeply want every Christian to be able to share the gospel, clearly, concisely, and compellingly. Like Romans 1:16-17 says, “For I am not ashamed of the gospel, for it is the power of God for salvation to everyone who believes, to the Jew first and also to the Greek. For in it the righteousness of God is revealed from faith for faith, as it is written, “The righteous shall live by faith.”

Please, friends, don’t expect people to believe in Biblical ethics if they haven’t trusted in Jesus and received the gift of the Holy Spirit. I remember so many times I argued with Christians about these very topics – all religions are equal, the universe is the product of evolution, homosexuality is a valid lifestyle choice – but I never heard the gospel.

For I am not ashamed of the gospel,
for it is the power of God for salvation to everyone who believes, to the Jew first and also to the Greek.

Romans 1:16

Heavenly Father, please help us to be different from the culture of the world. Strengthen our faith that we will shine brightly in a dark world. Draw all men to Jesus as we lift Him high. Give us opportunities to proclaim the glorious good news of the gospel and help us to recognize those open doors. In the name of Jesus Christ we pray. Amen.