Planting the Gospel

Planting the GospelRev. Reuben FoncardasRomans 1: 14-17What is the gospel?There are various methods and many strategies of planting the gospel. But there is only one right set of attitudes in doing it.———1. Develop a great sense of obligation (v. 14)I am obligated both to Greeks and non-Greeks, both to the wise and the foolish.—Romans 1:14However, I consider my life worth nothing to me; my only aim is to finish the race and complete the task the Lord Jesus has given me—the task of testifying to the good news (gospel) of God’s grace.—Acts 20:24———2. Develop a great sense of eagerness (v. 15)That is why I am so eager to preach the gospel also to you who are in Rome.—Romans 1:15For what I received I passed on to you as of first importance: that Christ died for our sins according to the Scriptures, 4that he was buried, that he was raised on the third day according to the Scriptures, 5and that he appeared to Cephas (Peter), and then to the Twelve. 6After that, he appeared to more than five hundred of the brothers and sisters at the same time, most of whom are still living, though some have fallen asleep.—1 Corinthians 15:3-6———3. Develop a great sense of boldness (v. 16-17)For I am not ashamed of the gospel, because it is the power of God that brings salvation to everyone who believes: first to the Jew, then to the Gentile. 17For in the gospel the righteousness of God is revealed—a righteousness that is by faith from first to last, just as it is written: ‘The righteous will live by faith.’—Romans 1:16-17• The gospel is the power of God to save and to sanctify everyone who believes.———Small Group Discussion Questions1. The message of the gospel is clearly stated in I Corinthians 15:3-6. Read through this passage carefully and identify the elements of the gospel. After which, write the gospel message in your own words.2. Of the three attitudes found in Romans 1:14-17, which is your most developed? Which do you need to work on more?3. Paul says that he is not ashamed of the gospel. The power of God that bring salvation to everyone who believes is not something to be ashamed of. So why do you think many Christians are not as bold/brave as Paul? How can this be rectified?4. We may be bold and not ashamed of the gospel. But the more important question is, “Is the gospel ashamed of us?” The most important message the King of Kings wants to be proclaimed has to be delivered by someone who is worthy of such a calling. Prayerfully ask God, “Lord, is my life, my speech, my thoughts, and actions displaying the righteousness that comes by faith in the saving power of the gospel? Am I worthy to be your messenger of the good news?