Geoff Hohneck
Romans 15:7-13
REJOICE WITH ONE ANOTHER IN GOD’S REDEMPTIVE PLAN
15 December 2013
In the previous passages, Paul develops the idea that as believers who have exercised faith in Christ, we have the responsibility of developing peaceful and harmonious relationship with others. Today, in this passage, he focuses on what we must be to one another. We must be REJOICING CHRISTIANS whose joy is not just internal but evident externally.
At the end of the passage, Paul lays down an ideal, in the form of a benedictory prayer, for the local church. That it is to be filled with believers who are united in joy, hope and peace, because of their unity in Christ. The question, therefore, is obvious – are we being filled with God-given joy and peace that results in a thriving hope that’s energised by the Holy Spirit?
Sermon Outline
1. There must be mutual acceptance (vs 7)
2. There are mutual reasons to rejoice and glorify God (vs 8-12)
3. There are divine mutual benefits ... Joy ... Peace ... Hope (vs 13)