Scripture
Paul, a servant of Christ Jesus, called to be an apostle and set apart for the gospel of God— 2 the gospel he promised beforehand through his prophets in the Holy Scriptures 3 regarding his Son, who as to his earthly life was a descendant of David, 4 and who through the Spirit of holiness was appointed the Son of God in power by his resurrection from the dead: Jesus Christ our Lord. 5 Through him we received grace and apostleship to call all the Gentiles to the obedience that comes from faith for his name’s sake. 6 And you also are among those Gentiles who are called to belong to Jesus Christ.
Reflection
This letter to the church in Rome was written relatively later in Paul’s life. It was many years prior that we he once went by the name Saul. “Saul” of course was the name given to him at birth by his Jewish parents; a good Jewish name for a good Jewish boy. All that changed the day he encountered Jesus; Saul was changed and soon he started using a new name. There is biblical precedent for this kind of thing, Abram started going to Abraham, Jacob became known as Israel. One of the ways our future life is described is in telling us how we will receive a new name. (Revelation 2:17). What a day that will be when we will be called by a name that reflects our authentic identity, a self which we have found in Christ.
P.S As we begin this series on Romans be sure to check out this really good introduction to Romans: https://thebibleproject.com/explore/romans/ (Ps. Dale).
Thoughts for the day
- During your quiet time, what is God telling you that reflects your authentic identity in Him?
- What do you feel God is telling you through this passage?
- What is one way you can apply this truth to your life today?
- Who can you encourage with this story/message?
Prayer
Look around you right now at the people who are sitting near you or standing and pray for them.
