Paul talks about his commitment to share his faith in Rome, and how he was prevented from doing so until “now” (as he is writing). He declares his commitment to both wise Greeks and foolish barbarians. (Rabbi’s note: I’m amazed he declares his dedication to “foolish barbarians.” My prayer is that the Lord would increase that level of zeal in each of us.) Then he speaks an amazing verse that will be our focus today …

Romans 1:16 For I am not ashamed of the Good News, for it is the power of God for salvation to everyone who trusts – to the Jew first and also to the Greek.

Paul is writing on behalf of us all. Can we agree with Paul and say, “I am not ashamed?” Of course we agree, but, in the kingdom of God, our actions must line up with our beliefs. Do we act like we’re not ashamed? We may be ashamed of the honest answer.

God makes this promise in the last verse of Joel 2 (but we have to receive it in context) … Joel 2:27 You will know that I am within Israel. Yes, I am Adonai your God – there is no other – Never again will My people be shamed. The context of Joel 2 is that of an end time prophecy. Joel 2:1 Blow the shofar in Zion! Sound an alarm on My holy mountain! Let all living in the land tremble – for the day of Adonai is coming – surely it is near!

If we are really not ashamed of the good news, we will shout it from the rooftops. We will even share it with “foolish barbarians.” We put our trust in this truth. Philippians 2:9-11 For this reason God highly exalted Him and gave Him the name that is above every name, that at the name of Yeshua every knee should bow, in heaven and on the earth and under the earth, and every tongue profess that Yeshua the Messiah is Lord – to the glory of God the Father.

Romans 1:16b … It is the power of God for salvation to everyone who trusts …

I want to close today with the lyrics to this song (youtube.com/watch?v=lZiqgrtNT6s) …

Set a fire down in my soul
That I can’t contain, I can’t control
I want more of You, God
I want more of You, God.

Let us not be ashamed of the good news, and act like it.