The Good News is For Jews And Gentiles

Romans 15:3–13
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Christians need to follow the example of the Lord Jesus Christ who was a perfect example of ministering on behalf of others and not for Himself (v. 3). He did not please Himself, even though He had every right to do so, but was willing to set aside His own desires to follow the Father’s will. He came “to do the will” of the Father who sent Him (John 4:34). Knowledge of the Scriptures affects our attitude toward the present and the future (v.4). The more we know about what God has done in the years past, the greater the confidence we will have about what He will do in the days ahead. If the Lord can receive us with the great gulf that existed between Him and us, should we not also be able to accept and help one another, even if we have minor differences? (verses 5-7).

Jesus came to bring the truth to the Jews, and to show that God is true to His promises (v. 8). Was it selfish of God to work primarily through the Jews? No, because it was through the Jews that He would send the Good News of salvation to the Gentiles. Paul quotes four Old Testament passages that shows the progression of how this all happened:

1. The Jews glorify God among the Gentiles (v. 9 quoting David from Psalm 18:49).
2. The Gentiles rejoice with the Jews (v. 10 quoting Moses from Deuteronomy 32:43).
3. All the Jews and Gentiles together praise God (v. 11 quoting Psalm 117:1).
4. Christ shall reign over Jews and Gentiles (v.12 quoting Isaiah 11:10).

At the present time Israel has been set aside nationally while the Church is being formed of both Jew and Gentile. But one day in the future Israel will be restored to her place as head of the nations.

Application

Many down through the years have hated the Jews and tried to destroy them (Example: Hitler). Even today there is much anti-Jewish feeling throughout the world. As a Christian I need to be their friend and pray for them.