Romans 1:8-17 Romans Series #3 August 25, 2013 AM A Spirit for Ministry Romans 1:8-17 Romans Series #3 August 25, 2013 AM

Romans 1:8-16 8 ¶ First, I thank my God through Jesus Christ for you all, that your faith is spoken of throughout the whole world. 9 For God is my witness, whom I serve with my spirit in the gospel of His Son, that without ceasing I make mention of you always in my prayers, 10 making request if, by some means, now at last I may find a way in the will of God to come to you. 11 For I long to see you, that I may impart to you some spiritual gift, so that you may be established 12 that is, that I may be encouraged together with you by the mutual faith both of you and me. 13 Now I do not want you to be unaware, brethren, that I often planned to come to you (but was hindered until now), that I might have some fruit among you also, just as among the other Gentiles. 14 I am a debtor both to Greeks and to barbarians, both to wise and to unwise. 15 So, as much as is in me, I am ready to preach the gospel to you who are in Rome also. 16 ¶ For I am not ashamed of the gospel of Christ, for it is the power of God to salvation for everyone who believes, for the Jew first and also for the Greek.

A Spirit for Ministry As Paul lays out his inner thoughts and prayers, we are privileged to view his exceptional spirit for ministry. Let’s examine Paul’s spirit for ministry that we might share in it and profit from it. It is that spirit that we ought to possess. After all, service in the local church is a real part of our worship – it is a spiritual sacrifice for our God. Lord, mold us as your servants. Please develop these features, these characteristics, these NINE marks, in our lives and ministries. (Thanks to John MacArthur Commentary on Romans) God, MAKE US…………………….

#1 Thankful (vs. 8) The character of Paul’s thankfulness was personal. The reason for Paul’s thankfulness was prominent. The lessons of Paul’s thankfulness are pointed. You will be thankful when you focus on the kingdom of God- His truth and works. You will be filled with joy when you are truly thankful. You will be known for your thankful attitude.

#2 Concerned (vs. 9,10a) A Concern Beheld by God A Concern Birthed in Worship A Concern Based in the Preaching of the Gospel A Concern Bathed in Prayer

#3 Willing (vs. 10b) Willingness is Submissiveness. Making request by going to the Throne of Grace in prayer. Meditating to understand the direction of His will. Moving or tracing the direction of His will with our feet. Magnifying or advancing His agenda – not ours.

#4 Loving (vs. 11) His vision was for people. His mission was for blessing people. His provision was for growing people. As Paul’s service was marked by thankfulness, concern, willing submission, and love – so may ours!

#5 Humble (vs. 12) 12 that is, that I may be encouraged together with you by the mutual faith both of you and me. It takes humility for a great Apostle, Missionary, and Jew to be linked up with this Roman church. But humility always brings blessings. A close fellowship – together with…you and me A common precious possession – mutual faith both of you and me. A beneficial conclusion – encouraged

#6 Fruitful (vs. 13) Continued next week…

#7 Obedient (vs. 14)

#8 Eagar (vs. 15)

#9 Bold (vs. 16)