Romans 1:16 For I am not ashamed of the gospel of Christ: for it is the power of God to salvation to every one that believes; to the Jew first… The gospel manifests the power of God. I. IN THE REVELATION IT MAKES OF WHAT GOD HAS DONE FOR US IN THE WORK OF HIS SON. 1. As transgressors the law held us in bondage, and bound us over to endure the wages of sin in everlasting death. But in the obedience which Christ has rendered to the law, and the satisfaction He has made to its demands, He has opened a new and certain way of life for the guilty. Satan also held us captive, but Christ has overcome him who had the power of death. 2. The influence of this work is displayed — (1) In heaven in the acceptance there of Christ's sacrifice, in His prevailing intercession, and in the continual crowning of the subjects of His redemption. (2) On earth in the increasing testimony that is borne to the glorious redemption, in the providence which causes all things to work together for the good of the redeemed, and in the continual progress of the truth. (3) In hell, in the subjection which it compels Satan to acknowledge to the Lord Jesus. II. IN THE EXHIBITION OF THE WORK WHICH GOD ACCOMPLISHES WITHIN US BY HIS SPIRIT. Take a view of this as given — 1. In the past history of the Church. Reflect on the progress of the gospel, and the multitudes who have been actually rescued. 2. In the experience of the individual. (1) Who awakens and converts the careless sinner? (2) Who justifies the penitent believer, and gives him peace and acceptance with God? (3) Who carries on in increasing holiness the work thus commenced? (4) Who upholds and preserves to final salvation those who are thus brought to God? (5) Who finally crowns the subjects of grace in glory? III. IN THE PROPER GROUND FOR HOPE WHICH IT THUS AFFORDS. 1. If you look upon yourselves you find yourselves utterly weak and unworthy; but there is offered to you in the gospel a sufficient and abiding hope. 2. Let the Christ have all the praise for this work of salvation. (S. H. Tyng, D. D.) Parallel Verses KJV: For I am not ashamed of the gospel of Christ: for it is the power of God unto salvation to every one that believeth; to the Jew first, and also to the Greek. |
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