In Paul’s salutation to the church in Rome (1:1-7) you can see our mission and values for the new church. Do you remember them? 1. Gospel (Our Motive). 2. Obedient Church (Our Model). 3. City (Our Mission ).
Firstly, we see at the core, the Gospel, Paul is “separated unto the gospel of God” (v1). For Paul, the gospel was a message big enough for an entire lifetime. It also demanded an entire life dedication. It is a message that should motivate everything that we are and do at all times.
Secondly, in verse 5 we see the Obedient Church. The grace of God in the gospel calls for a radical response of obedience. Paul says “for obedience to the faith”. Any gospel that excludes the need for transformed lives is “another gospel.”
Thirdly, we see the City. Paul says, “for obedience to the faith among all nations, for His name” (v5). This grace-filled Gospel obedience is to be modeled among the nations. The city is a great place to model obedience to the nations as they gather together to make a name for themselves. We are here to proclaim the gospel and call together an obedient people who forget making a name for “themselves” and get caught up in making “God’s Name” great in the city.
So you have it, our mission, An obedient church, serving the city in the Gospel, for the Glory of God. Pray as we began to communicate that mission to others.
This was very encouraging and needful to read! This is a great mission for ALL of us! I find myself personally distracted by the cares of this life…rather than being “seperated” unto the Gospel. It’s not just for missionaries, pastors, etc. It’s for every follower of Christ! I pray for more opportunities to share the Good news! Thank you so much for the reminder of your mission!