Romans 15:14-24 - Called to be a Minister of Jesus Christ

Today, Tuesday April 20 Called to be a Minister of Jesus Christ Romans 15:15-16 “But on some points I have written to you very boldly by way of reminder, because of the grace given me by God to be a minister of Christ Jesus to the Gentiles in the priestly service of the gospel of God, so that the offering of the Gentiles may be acceptable, sanctified by the Holy Spirit.” What on earth am I here for? Have you ever asked yourself that question? What is life really all about? Where can I find true meaning and purpose in life? Great questions! Well, the passage we are looking at today gives a good clue where to find the answers to those questions. In verses 8 through 13 of this chapter Paul wrote about how Jesus Christ was sent to be a minister to the Gentiles and fulfill all the Old Testament promises. Now Paul is uses himself as an example to encourage his readers to also become ministers of God to share the good news of Jesus Christ and the hope that comes from a relationship with Him. (vs. 14-24) Here, as in all his epistles, Paul makes it clear that this ministry was both given and received by the grace of God. It was God’s grace that saved him on the road to Damascus. It was God’s grace that called him to be a minister and an apostle. It was God’s grace that enabled him to serve. And after that his life was never the same. We also see in this passage that Paul’s ministry was centered in the Gospel (v. 16). This ministry was done for God’s glory (v. 17). This ministry was done by God’s power (vs.18-19). And this ministry was according to God’s plan (vs. 20-24). My friend, we all have been called by God’s grace to be His ministers. Every believer, (not just preachers), has a priestly ministry for the Lord to serve Him and others. There is no greater calling in the world! We often talk about what it means to be “on mission with God” in sharing His love, His mercy, His grace and His forgiveness to those around us who are lost, helpless and hopeless! Will you respond by faith to this calling today to join the Lord in His ministry and find real purpose and meaning for your life? That’s my prayer for you! God bless!