The Apostle Paul’s relationship with the church in Rome in Romans 1:8-15 is both awe-inspiring and instructional for believers today. Even though he had never met this community face-to-face, Paul’s affection and gratitude for them were deeply rooted in their shared faith in Christ. It is a reminder for us to cultivate a spirit of gratitude for the Church, which serves as a visible mark of God’s grace in our lives.
Be Thankful for God’s People Because They Are a Visible Mark of God’s Grace
It is remarkable that Paul feels such a strong connection with a community he has never met. However, this connection is not based on personal familiarity or shared history but on something far deeper. The source of unity within the Church is what Christ has accomplished for us and what He continues to do through us. The ritualistic act of attending a church service can, over time, make us desensitized to the grace that we extend and receive from one another. However, Paul helps us awaken to the fact that community itself is an act of grace.
While grace is largely an internal transformation, it has visible and tangible marks. One such mark is the Church — a collective body of believers who encourage, edify, and support each other. This is especially significant for the Roman church, situated in the very “belly of the beast,” the Roman Empire. The believers there stood in stark contrast to the Roman beliefs and, as a result, faced extreme hostility. Paul’s gratitude towards them was not a superficial acknowledgment but a deep-rooted respect for who they were — the blood-bought people of God.
In our contemporary context, it is far too easy to see the Church as another service to consume rather than a manifestation of God’s grace. Paul’s sense of thanksgiving should also prompt us to be aware of those who are unable to participate in this grace, perhaps due to health or other limitations. This mindfulness should not just be an abstract thought but must translate into concrete action. Reach out, connect, and bring the Church to them.
It is tempting to criticize the Church for its shortcomings. While there is room for constructive critique, our ultimate aim should be restoration and not disdain. Our focus should not be to absolve ourselves of the community’s imperfections but to contribute towards its sanctification. After all, the Church is not an ‘us versus them’; it is just ‘us,’ collectively working towards the glory of God.
Paul’s gratitude is not passive; it prompts him to desire mutual edification through fellowship. He eagerly anticipates a time when they can strengthen each other’s faith face-to-face, for in that shared faith, they find mutual encouragement.
Look for Opportunities to Share Ourselves With Our Church Family
We talk about spiritual gifts in church a lot, don’t we? Yet, it is intriguing that Paul, the Apostle who wrote much of the New Testament, never strolled into a gathering and said, “Clear the pulpit; I have arrived!” Instead, he had a more humble approach. “For I long to visit you so I can bring you some spiritual gift that will help you grow strong in the Lord.” (see Romans 1:11).
Now, imagine a church filled with that mentality, a church that steps in wherever there is a need. That is a church that embodies the phrase, “See a need, fill a need.” We often approach church with the mentality, “What is in it for me?” But here is the challenge: Could we move from a consumer mindset to that of contributors? Instead of asking, “What can I get?” could we ask, “What can I give?”
When convenience becomes our expectation, we risk approaching church and community as yet another service to cater to us. Do we see the Church as vital not just for our spiritual growth but also for the well-being of others in the community?
Find Your Gospel Passion Project
How often do we walk into our church communities with the mindset, “What can I get out of this?” rather than “What can I give?” The Apostle Paul’s stance was radically different. He was not there to claim the spotlight or assert his well-known credentials. Instead, Paul focused on offering a spiritual gift, to be determined based on the needs of the community. Imagine a church with such a selfless mindset — people eager to serve rather than to be served, taking shared ownership of the church’s health and vitality. In a world that constantly caters to our personal preferences, we are dangerously close to becoming spiritual consumers rather than spiritual contributors. But what if we used our resources to build up our brothers and sisters in Christ?
Practical Step: Cultivate the habit of physical presence and active participation in your church community. It is not about attendance; it is about engagement. Your presence might be the very spiritual gift someone needs that day.
Paul uses an interesting choice of words: he felt obligated to share the gospel but was also eager to do so. The question is: do we feel the same ownership over people’s exposure to the gospel? Every person in the church has a shared responsibility to point people toward Christ.
Practical Step: Think of ways you can share the gospel in your everyday life. Perhaps it is being an encouraging voice in your small group, or maybe it is utilizing your artistic gifts to paint the glorious truths of the gospel.
Each of us has a unique sphere of influence where we can live out the gospel. The key is finding that “Gospel Passion Project” that makes you come alive in Christ. Maybe it is something as simple as writing heartfelt notes to friends, reminding them of God’s love. Or perhaps it is an untapped vision you have had for years, urging you to reach a specific community.
Practical Step: Ask yourself, “What is the next step for me to dive deeper into fellowship and community?” Your next step might be small, but do not underestimate the ripple effects of obedience in faith.
There is always a next step we can take, no matter how long we have been part of our church community. Whether it is the courage to finally initiate that gospel passion project or simply to be more present in your current community, let’s commit to making that step. If you are waiting for a less busy day to become more involved, let me assure you — that day may never come. But there is a Lord who can rearrange your priorities, directing you to where you are meant to serve and to be served in love. Whatever it is, it will not be easy. But it will be so worth it.
Whatever your next step, take it. For the kingdom of God is built on such small steps of faith and obedience, one after another, walking in step with Jesus.
