Christ our hope: Romans 15:1-13

Intro

Read Romans 15:1-13

Romans 15:1–13 ESV

1 We who are strong have an obligation to bear with the failings of the weak, and not to please ourselves. 2 Let each of us please his neighbor for his good, to build him up. 3 For Christ did not please himself, but as it is written, “The reproaches of those who reproached you fell on me.” 4 For whatever was written in former days was written for our instruction, that through endurance and through the encouragement of the Scriptures we might have hope. 5 May the God of endurance and encouragement grant you to live in such harmony with one another, in accord with Christ Jesus, 6 that together you may with one voice glorify the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ. 7 Therefore welcome one another as Christ has welcomed you, for the glory of God. 8 For I tell you that Christ became a servant to the circumcised to show God’s truthfulness, in order to confirm the promises given to the patriarchs, 9 and in order that the Gentiles might glorify God for his mercy. As it is written, “Therefore I will praise you among the Gentiles, and sing to your name.” 10 And again it is said, “Rejoice, O Gentiles, with his people.” 11 And again, “Praise the Lord, all you Gentiles, and let all the peoples extol him.” 12 And again Isaiah says, “The root of Jesse will come, even he who arises to rule the Gentiles; in him will the Gentiles hope.” 13 May the God of hope fill you with all joy and peace in believing, so that by the power of the Holy Spirit you may abound in hope.

Living together

Read Romans 15:1-4

Romans 15:1–4 ESV

1 We who are strong have an obligation to bear with the failings of the weak, and not to please ourselves. 2 Let each of us please his neighbor for his good, to build him up. 3 For Christ did not please himself, but as it is written, “The reproaches of those who reproached you fell on me.” 4 For whatever was written in former days was written for our instruction, that through endurance and through the encouragement of the Scriptures we might have hope.

The firs thing we see here is our obligtion

Paul is talking to those who are strong

Those of you who are christians in here who are strong

Bear with those that are weaker

This is something That I see often

Mature christians who are so annoyed by immature christians

This is not the way we should live with each other

Rather we should bear with each other

The mark of a mature christian is one who looks not to their own satisfaction

But they put on Christs attitude toward other

That we would look to build eachother up

It is not that the mature believer should look down on him but rather look to build him up

Verse 2 let each of us please his neighbor

This is not people pleasing but neighbor pleasing

neighbor encouraging

neighbor building up

And why should we do this again because mature christians should follow Christ example

Verse 3

We dont bear the reproach from the weaker ones christ does

Paul calls back to psalm 69 here

Showing that this isnt just a new christian thing but this idea is from the long before Jesus came

This command to bear with each other and not looking to our own good but the good of others comes from the scriptures so we can have hope

This idea though it seems like an aside is incredibly telling

In other areas paul would say things like and such were some of you

When is reminding the believer about the times they were lost in sin

Here paul is getting at the same thing

We have an obligation to bear with the weaker one because we too were weaker once but others kept to their obligation they had hope we would grow

We too should have hope that others will grow

This is a unique passage for this group because there is an asuumption her by paul that he is talking to mature believers

Maybe some of you arent there yet

Maybe some of you are immature

Thats ok let us bear with you to encourage you

You may feel like you are failing in simple things

You may look at others like they are so much better

But have hope through endurance you too can grow as they have done

Live in unity

Read Romans 15:5-6

Romans 15:5–6 ESV

5 May the God of endurance and encouragement grant you to live in such harmony with one another, in accord with Christ Jesus, 6 that together you may with one voice glorify the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ.

Paul encourages us to live in such harmony with one other

We would be united in our desire to glorify God, the father

Let our unity glorify God

Let us live in harmony as a testament to what Christ can do

Live in Love for each other

Read Romans 15:7-9

Romans 15:7–9 ESV

7 Therefore welcome one another as Christ has welcomed you, for the glory of God. 8 For I tell you that Christ became a servant to the circumcised to show God’s truthfulness, in order to confirm the promises given to the patriarchs, 9 and in order that the Gentiles might glorify God for his mercy. As it is written, “Therefore I will praise you among the Gentiles, and sing to your name.”

Another command for us to be open welcoming to each other

There should not be division or exclusions in the body of Christ

Just as Christ welcomed you welcome others

Love others

wether Jew or gentile both were worthy of Christ love so we should welcome them in the same way

Paul shows the difference in Jew and Gentile

But the equality of both in salvation through Christ

God’s truth was shown through Christ to the Jew and his mercy to the gentile

Confirming for the Jew

Grace to bring in the gentile

Living with hope

Read Romans 15:10-13

Romans 15:10–13 ESV

10 And again it is said, “Rejoice, O Gentiles, with his people.” 11 And again, “Praise the Lord, all you Gentiles, and let all the peoples extol him.” 12 And again Isaiah says, “The root of Jesse will come, even he who arises to rule the Gentiles; in him will the Gentiles hope.” 13 May the God of hope fill you with all joy and peace in believing, so that by the power of the Holy Spirit you may abound in hope.

Paul shows the scripture are full of verses not just for the Jews to worship

But a promise that the gentiles will too

The fact that the gentiles and Jews will serve the same god should give hope to all

None are to far from salvation

And all believers in unity are filled with hope by the Holy Spirit

Unified in Love: The Call to Embrace One Another

Bible Passage: Romans 15:1–13

Summary: In Romans 15:1-13, the Apostle Paul urges believers to bear with one another’s weaknesses and to exemplify Christ’s love as the foundation for unity among believers, highlighting how Christ Himself serves as the ultimate model of acceptance and hope.

Application: This passage can encourage Christians to reflect on their attitudes towards others in the church, especially those with differing convictions. It calls for selflessness and a commitment to unity, helping congregants find strength in community, support in their weaknesses, and a vibrant fellowship that reflects Christ’s love.

Teaching: The sermon emphasizes the importance of unity in the body of Christ, teaching that our differences should not divide us but rather be seen as opportunities for mutual encouragement and growth, as we look to Christ’s example of love and sacrifice.

How this passage could point to Christ: In this passage, Christ is the fulfillment of the Old Testament promises, reflecting God’s plan for the Gentiles to glorify Him for His mercy. The call to accept one another mirrors how Christ accepted all, offering grace and salvation to every believer regardless of their background.

Big Idea: Embracing one another in love as Christ has embraced us fosters a united community that glorifies God and showcases the beauty of His grace.

Recommended Study: I suggest exploring the historical context of Paul’s letter to the Romans, especially his views on Jewish and Gentile relations. Utilize Logos to examine commentaries like those by Douglas Moo or John Stott, which can provide insights into the socio-religious dynamics at play in the early church that influenced Paul’s exhortations. Additionally, consider the exegetical discussions on the terms 'weak' and 'strong' to help clarify the practical applications of these verses in today's church.

1. Selfless Service to One Another

Romans 15:1-3

You could begin by illustrating the challenge everyone faces in bearing with the weaknesses of others, and how pride often leads to division. Paul calls believers to embrace selflessness, following Christ’s ultimate example of not living to please Himself but others. This passage encourages the congregation to take an introspective look into their lives and find ways they can support others, especially those who may not share their viewpoints. By focusing on unity through selflessness, churches can foster an environment that mirrors Jesus' sacrificial love.

2. Scriptural Strength for Unity

Romans 15:4-6

Perhaps, delve into how the Scriptures provide hope and encouragement. Highlight God's grand narrative where endurance and the teachings from the Bible inspire unity among believers. Encourage the congregation to immerse themselves in the Bible to receive comfort and strength. This teaches that authentic unity is possible when believers are anchored in God’s Word, looking beyond personal differences towards a shared purpose of glorifying God.

3. Accepting All in Christ

Romans 15:7-9

Maybe, emphasize the act of mutual acceptance as Christ accepted us. The unity among believers is grounded in the humility and love that Christ demonstrated, fulfilling God’s promises to both Jews and Gentiles. Explain that this acceptance transforms community settings, breaking down barriers and forming bonds of love. Highlight that when Christians accept each other as Christ accepted them, they reflect God’s mercy and advance His mission to all peoples.

4. Overflowing with Hope and Joy

Romans 15:10-13

You could conclude by exploring Paul's vision for a harmonious community that bursts with joy and peace, rooted in faith and overflowing with hope through the Holy Spirit. This paints a picture of what a community can become when it truly lives in the love and acceptance of Christ. Challenge the congregation to become a testimony to God’s grace by embodying these qualities, showcasing the unity that only Christ can achieve among diverse believers.