READ Romans 10:12-21

Romans chapter ten concludes with quotations from Isaiah establishing that God would send the Gospel to the ​Gentiles.

Our focus this morning is on Romans 10:12-13, "For there is no difference between the Jew and the Greek: for the same Lord over all is rich unto all that call upon Him. 13For whosoever shall call upon the name of the Lord shall be saved."

These two verses are verses that conclude a Gospel presentation called the "Romans Road."  I was presented these verses as a young child and responded to God in simple faith just as stated in verse 12.  I'm glad God states there is "no difference between the Jew and the Greek (or Gentile)."  When one turns to God in faith concerning this matter of salvation the Lord responds in the richness of His mercy and His grace.

Regarding Romans 10:13, David Sorenson states in his commentary Understanding the Bible, "The simplicity of saving faith is condensed in the uncomplicated function of calling upon Him. The foundational principle is faith. However, faith often is manifested through prayer. As one turns to Christ, and in simple faith beseeches Him to save, that is a manifestation of saving faith.  And indeed, prayer is a vehicle of faith. Therefore, in fashion perhaps simpler than in verse 9, the same principle is set forth.  When one in simple faith trusts Christ, the promise of God becomes operative. He shall be saved! This verse, incidentally, is quoted from Joel 2:32.  Paul has deftly made a transition from the lofty principle of the righteousness which is by faith, to salvation by faith which is practically obtained by calling on the Lord."  Ephesians 2:8-9 are great companion verses expressing the simplicity of saving faith, "For by grace are ye saved through faith; and that not of yourselves: it is the gift of God: 9 Not of works, lest any man should boast."

Thank God for the simplicity of the Gospel.  It is so simple, I understood God's message to me as an eight-year-old boy.  I turned to God, believing Jesus died for my sins, trusting Him for forgiveness and eternal life.

Have a great day rejoicing in the richness of His mercy and grace.

Your Friend and HIS,

Pastor Abbott

MEDITATION

1.  Why did the Jews consider themselves to have an advantage over the Gentiles?

2.  On what basis does Paul state there is no difference between the Jew and the Greek?

3.  What does it mean for one to call upon the name of the Lord, in the context of Romans 10:13?

4.  What is the result for anyone who calls upon the name of the Lord for salvation?