Romans 1 (click here)

Here we are, day 22 and a new book. One of the things Scripture says about itself is that it is "living and active, penetrating even to the joints and marrow, it judges the thoughts and attitudes of the heart." I hope you experience that as you open yourself up to God's message.

Romans reads a little different than John because for one its a letter and John is gospel report, and so the conversation may look a little different, but I hope you will jump in so that we can grow together.

Paul begins with addressing is audience and then shares his passion for the Gospel message (v.16)

• Why are we some times ashamed of the Gospel?
• How can we express excitement over the Gospel in our lives?

Paul's discussion about God shows Himself, thus making every person on the earth accountable is both helpful and challenging.

• How are God's invisible qualities displayed for everyone to see?
• In what way is God being fair in judging the whole world?
• What created things do we worship today? (v.25)
• Why did God give those who suppress the truth (v.18) over to their desires?
• How do we see that happening today? (hint: in many of the same ways)

Parents would want me to point out that Paul lists, "not listening to their parents," in the list of the horrible, sinful things the wicked do. And this deserves to be noted, because it is a clear violation of God's expectation. It should also be pointed out, that the other things in those list (insulting, slandering, etc.) make it difficult to listen to parents. Maybe reconciliation can happen if both sides admit their shortcomings, repent, and commit to give their relationship back over to the Lord.