Romans 1:1-17 | I Am Not Ashamed of the Gospel

Romans 1:1–17 | I am not Ashamed of the Gospel

Before Paul tells the Romans what he has accomplished, he tells them who he belongs to.

In the opening verses of Romans, Paul introduces himself not as an apostle, church planter, theologian, or leader—but as a slave of Christ Jesus. In a city obsessed with status, power, prestige, and achievement, Paul anchors his identity in something deeper: belonging to Jesus.

This message launches our study through the book of Romans by exploring the gospel that transformed Paul's life and continues to change lives today. Romans is more than a theological masterpiece. It is a letter centered on the good news that God saves sinners through faith in Jesus Christ.

As Paul writes to a diverse church wrestling with cultural and ethnic tensions, he reminds them—and us—that our identity is not built on our accomplishments, backgrounds, or social standing. We are called because we belong.

The same gospel that raised Jesus from the dead is still the power of God at work today, saving everyone who believes.

In this message:

•  Why Paul introduces himself as a slave before an apostle 
•  The cultural pressures facing the church in Rome 
•  Why belonging comes before becoming 
•  What the gospel actually is according to Romans 1 
•  How calling flows from identity 
•  Why Paul was "not ashamed" of the gospel 
•  What makes the gospel powerful in every culture and generation 
•  How God calls ordinary believers to live with purpose and mission 

The world celebrates power, wisdom, and success. The gospel reveals something greater: the power of God changing lives through faith in Jesus Christ.

Scripture: Romans 1:1–17
Series: Romans
Message Title: Called to Belong
Core Theme: You are called because you belong.