The Message

Romans 1:1-5, msg

I, Paul, am a devoted slave of Jesus Christ on assignment, authorized as an apostle to proclaim God's words and acts. I write this letter to all the Christians in in Rome, God's friends. The sacred writings contain preliminary reports by the prophets on God's Son. His descent from David roots him in history; his unique identity as Son of God was shown by the Spirit when Jesus was raised from the dead, setting him apart as the Messiah, our Master. Through him we received both the generous gift of his life and the urgent task of passing it on to others who receive it by entering into obedient trust in Jesus. (emphasis mine)

At my church here in Durham we often read the passage we're studying in both NRSV and also in Eugene Peterson's translation, The Message Bible. I was reading through the salutation to Paul's letter to the Romans and I was struck by Paul's fervor, which comes through very early on in the letter. This translation's version of verse 5 (highlighted above) describes our role as evangelists as an "urgent task." In fact, that's exactly what it means to be an apostle-- to be one who carries the good news to others. Paul writes with the same urgency that he exhorts us to have when sharing the gospel with others.

Think about the most exciting thing that may have happened recently, be it a cool vacation, a new job, a new toy, etc. What was your first inclination once you found out about it? You probably felt an urge to pick up the phone to call a friend, parent, significant other, etc. Why? because it's good news that you want those around you to be able to share with you.

You may have felt the same fervor with regards to sharing about your newfound relationship with Christ when you first became a christian but for those of you who have known Christ for a long time, how do you feel now? Have you allowed yourself to become comfortable to the point that you never really think about sharing about what should be the most important thing in your life?

My pastor always challenges us to take the trinity challenge, and I pass this challenge onto you. Share with three people in the next week-- whether it be testifying about how God has worked in your life recently, inviting someone to church, or simply saying "God loves you". Paul says that "[he] is not ashamed of the gospel" (v.16). Can you say the same thing? Is this reflected in your actions?

-AMR