How does Romans 15:20 inspire us to prioritize sharing the Gospel with others? Paul’s Holy Ambition “In this way I aspired to preach the gospel where Christ was not known, so that I would not build on someone else’s foundation.” (Romans 15:20) What We Learn from Paul’s Words • “Aspired” shows a settled purpose, not a casual wish. • “Preach the gospel” is Paul’s non-negotiable life assignment. • “Where Christ was not known” reveals a passion for unreached people. • “Not build on someone else’s foundation” underscores respect for ministry already done and a drive to expand the kingdom’s borders. Why Paul’s Example Matters Today • Scripture presents Paul as a pattern to imitate (1 Corinthians 11:1). • The Great Commission still stands (Matthew 28:19-20); vast regions remain spiritually untouched. • God uses ordinary believers to carry extraordinary news (Acts 1:8). • Love compels us: “For Christ’s love compels us” (2 Corinthians 5:14). • Silence is not neutral—eternal destinies hang in the balance (Romans 10:14-15). Prioritizing Gospel Sharing in Daily Life 1. Align Your Aim – Begin each day reminded that eternity matters more than temporary comforts. – Pray for specific unbelievers by name. 2. Reach the Unreached Near You – International students, refugees, new neighbors—many have never met a Christian. – Show hospitality; conversations around a meal often open doors to the gospel. 3. Support Frontier Missions – Partner financially with missionaries planting churches where none exist (Philippians 4:15-17). – Consider short-term trips that encourage long-term workers and expose you to unreached cultures. 4. Guard Against Comfort-Driven Christianity – Paul refused to “build on someone else’s foundation” because it would have been easier. – Evaluate activities that crowd out evangelism and be willing to restructure schedules. 5. Share with Clarity and Confidence – The message is simple: Christ died for our sins, was buried, and rose again (1 Corinthians 15:3-4). – Trust the Spirit to convict and convert (John 16:8). 6. Celebrate Every Gospel Advance – Rejoice when someone else leads a friend to Christ; kingdom wins are family wins (1 Thessalonians 2:19-20). – Let testimonies fuel fresh obedience. Encouraging Promises That Keep Us Bold • “I am with you always” (Matthew 28:20). • “You will receive power when the Holy Spirit comes upon you” (Acts 1:8). • “My word…will not return to Me empty” (Isaiah 55:11). • “In due season we will reap, if we do not grow weary” (Galatians 6:9). Putting It All Together Paul’s laser-focused ambition in Romans 15:20 pulls us out of self-absorption and into God’s global mission. By adopting his mindset—aiming for those who have yet to hear—we keep the gospel at the forefront of our schedules, conversations, and resources, trusting God to use our faithful witness to build new foundations of faith where Christ is not yet known. |
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