SETTING THE STAGE

Studying Romans is a daunting adventure.  As I begin with verse one tomorrow, I’m aware of my nervousness.  There are three reasons for that.

1. Romans has been studied by more brilliant individuals than probably any piece of literature in history.  This book has been of profound interest over the centuries to wherever Christianity has spread.  For one, to study this book is to travel the journey of Martin Luther and many other spiritual giants like him.

2.  I do not hold a seminary degree though I am a serious Bible student.  In spite of that, I pray I can handle this book with the integrity and respect it deserves.

3. I suspect that Romans will deeply change me.  Martin Luther was profoundly changed; so much so that he put his life on the line.  Change can be scary.  Am I willing to be so moved as to risk everything for Jesus Christ?  Can this book do that to me?  I already know the answer is yes.

Change is what I need most.  As long as I live here on earth, there are places of spiritual death which need to be touched by a living Christ.  I need spiritual life in places I’m not yet aware.  I long, as I study, to be moved, instructed, challenged, and deeply stirred.  Just maybe, there will be the likes of a new personal reformation.

Join me in asking God to open your heart wide to Paul’s letter and the Holy Spirit’s teaching.  How open we are will determine how much the journey will affect us.  If you want change at all cost, God will be faithful to take us at our word.

I’m on the edge, ready to jump into Romans with my whole heart.  Oh God, change me.  Amen