Romans 9:1-5
The Apostle Paul had a deep burden for his people, the Israelites. His passion for their salvation was so intense that he was willing to suffer if it meant they could be saved. This passage teaches us the importance of having a heart that longs for the lost and the responsibility we have as believers to share the gospel.
The Heart of Paul: A Deep Burden for the Lost
A Personal Relationship with the Holy Spirit
Paul emphasizes that he is speaking the truth, guided by the Holy Spirit. To be effective in God’s ministries, we must develop a strong personal relationship with the Holy Spirit so that He leads us in our daily walk with Christ
Sorrow for the Unsaved
Paul experiences deep sorrow for his people. The word sorrow here can mean fear or depression, but his pain was not for himself—it was for the lost. His greatest desire was for his fellow Israelites to know Christ. If we truly love our family, friends, and community, we will not be indifferent to their eternal destiny.
Love and Action Go Together
Paul’s love for his people was evident in his actions. True love does not allow others to perish. When we care about someone, we naturally want what is best for them. If we love the lost, we must actively work to bring them to Jesus.
Three Things to Keep in Mind About Salvation
Paul’s example challenges us to consider our own role in God’s kingdom. There are three key lessons to remember:
1. Salvation Is a Gift from God
- Salvation is not earned; it is freely given by God.
- Romans 1:16 says, “I am not ashamed of the gospel, for it is the power of God for salvation to everyone who believes.“
- Romans 3:23 reminds us that “all have sinned and fall short of the glory of God.“
- The consequence of sin is death, but through Jesus, we receive the free gift of eternal life (Romans 6:23).
Since we have received salvation as a free gift, we must not take it for granted. Instead, we should share it with others so they, too, can experience God’s grace.
2. Jesus Loves Everyone
- Christ’s salvation is for everyone, not just for a select group.
- Romans 5:8 states, “God shows His love for us in that while we were still sinners, Christ died for us.“
- Romans 8:1 reassures us that “there is now no condemnation for those who are in Christ Jesus.“
- God accepts us not because of what we have done but because of who we have received—Jesus Christ.
- Romans 8:38 reminds us that “nothing can separate us from the love of God.“
This truth should motivate us to love not only fellow believers but also non-believers. We are called to love them as Christ loves us and to lead them to Him.
3. We Have a Responsibility to Save the Lost
- Paul saw himself as a debtor to all people, meaning he had an obligation to share the gospel.
- We have a job in God’s kingdom: to bring people to Christ.
- Salvation is not achieved through human effort, intelligence, or power, but through God’s grace.
- Our role is to pray for the lost and show them the love of Christ.
Fighting for Our Loved Ones
- We must not allow Satan to take control of our loved ones’ lives.
- It is our duty to share the message that Jesus is the only Savior.
- Romans 8:38 is a promise that nothing can separate us from God’s love, which means we should continue our mission without fear.
- Paul never stopped or rested—he worked tirelessly to spread the gospel.
- Every day, we should preach the gospel in some way, whether through words, actions, or prayers.
Conclusion: A Call to Action
Paul’s passion and pain for God’s kingdom set an example for us to follow. His deep love for the lost should inspire us to:
- Strengthen our relationship with the Holy Spirit.
- Develop a heart that truly cares for those who do not know Christ.
- Remember that salvation is a gift, freely given by God.
- Share the love of Jesus with everyone, regardless of their background.
- Take responsibility for spreading the gospel and praying for the lost.
May we be filled with the same passion that Paul had, carrying the burden for the unsaved and dedicating our lives to expanding God’s kingdom.
God bless you abundantly!
