This month in the U.S. (and Canada) we celebrate Black History. It seems ironic, to me at least, that such great emphasis is placed upon remembering and celebrating the past in this manner; while at the same time destoying the very fabric (Judeo-Christian principles) that made America great. Maybe it is about time we remember and celebrate them as well.
ROMANS 1
CONTEXT: The Book of Romans tells us about God, who He is, and what He has done. It tells us of Jesus Christ, what His death accomplished. It tells us about ourselves, what we were like without Christ and who we are after trusting in Christ. Paul points out that God did not demand men have their lives straightened out before coming to Christ. While we were still sinners Christ died on a cross for our sin The Book of Romans is primarily a work of doctrine and can be divided into four sections: righteousness needed, 1:18–3:20; righteousness provided, 3:21–8:39; righteousness vindicated, 9:1–11:36; righteousness practiced, 12:1–15:13. The main theme of this letter is obvious of course—righteousness. Guided by the Holy Spirit, Paul first condemns all men of their sinfulness. He expresses his desire to preach the truth of God’s Word to those in Rome. It was his hope to have an assurance they were staying on the right path. He strongly points out that he is not ashamed of the gospel (Romans 1:16) because it is the power by which everyone is saved.
Matthew Henry breaks down Chapter one as follows: The apostle’s commission. (1-7) Prays for the saints at Rome, and expresses his desire to see them. (8-15) The gospel way of justification by faith, for Jews and Gentiles. (16,17) The sins of the Gentiles set forth. (18-32)
SERMON
America, Don’t Be Ashamed of Jesus!
by Walter A. Maier (1893-1950)
Walter Maier held a doctorate in philosophy from Harvard and taught at Concordia Seminary in St. Louis, but is best known for his worldwide radio broadcast, Bringing Christ To the Nations. He was heard in over 120 nations and by over twenty million souls. He was a Lutheran at a time when his denomination was denying the old time religion. He stood true, extolling the reliability of Scripture and man’s need for the sacrifice of Christ. His preaching was inspiring and direct. Early in his ministry he won the Billings Prize in Oratory and used all of the rhetorical tools of the good communicator. Billy Graham called him the greatest evangelist of the 20th century. In the face of harsh opposition, he never dipped his colors or compromised his principles.
Faithful Steward Ministries and FSM Women's Outreach 