on Romans 1

  As youth group leaders it is so important for us to be immersed in the word of God and to allow ourselves to be changed by God's goodness. There is no perk other than a better understanding and deeper love for God's word, but I do strongly encourage you each week to dive into our lessons and study together. My hope is to blitz through all of Paul's letters, to answer questions, and to have his passion for spreading the gospel be an encouragement to you. Let's dive in to Romans 1.

  Paul wrote this letter to some of the most persecuted Christians during his time. They were right under the nose of the Roman emperor and many lived fearing they would be arrested or killed on a daily basis. Paul's letter to them helped outline basic theological truths, answered many questions about being a Gentile (non-Jewish person) and a Christian, as well as offered guidance to live out their faith. Dive into the word, be changed by it, pray that the spirit would illumine truth in the word, and don't be afraid to ask tough questions of the word.

  Let these verses challenge you:)

Romans 1:12- "That yours and my faith might mutually encourage each other," What an incredible idea! This is our goal for youth ministry in ten words. Our faith should be encouraging to teens and vice versa. If we live this out and pray this would be a reality in our youth ministry there is no telling all the amazing work God can and will do through us.

Romans 1:16-17- Needless, to say there is A LOT of great stuff here. First, is that we should not be afraid of the gospel. Since, it is the power of God for salvation and to change our lives and our world. Proclaim the gospel and let people know, Christianity was never meant to be a private aspect of your life. Second, is that the righteous will live by faith. Paul is referencing a quote from the prophet Habakkuk, and the truth is fairly clear you won't always know where God is leading you or how every situation will turn out, but be assured that God loves, is in control, and is good.

The close of the chapter is Paul warning the Roman Christians of the dangers of sexual sin and immorality. I'd be very interested to have a discussion here or on Facebook about that:).