For I say that Christ became a servant of the circumcised on behalf of God’s truth, to confirm the promises to the fathers, and so that Gentiles may glorify God for his mercy. As it is written, Therefore I will praise you among the Gentiles, and I will sing praise to your name. Again it says, Rejoice, you Gentiles, with his people! And again, Praise the Lord, all you Gentiles; let all the peoples praise him! And again, Isaiah says, The root of Jesse will appear, the one who rises to rule the Gentiles; the Gentiles will hope in him. We must keep our eyes on the wider purposes of God. Now may the God of hope fill you with all joy and peace as you believe so that you may overflow with hope by the power of the Holy Spirit. (Romans 15:8-13)
Here Paul concludes his major treatise to the Romans, although there are yet many verses of personal greeting that follow. He reiterates his purpose and calling to bring the gospel to the Gentiles. The entire book must be read with this purpose in mind. God was doing a great thing in opening a way for the Gentiles to be included into the household of faith. Paul’s words, “We must keep our eyes on the wonder purposes of God,” are instructive to us also. God is at work bringing the message of the gospel to the entire world before the return of Jesus Christ. We must likewise keep ourselves focused on this greater purpose and keep ourselves from being distracted. The result of investing ourselves in the work of God is hope, joy, and peace.
Prayer:
Heavenly Father, thank you for bringing the gospel to the entire world. I acknowledge that my faith in Christ is built on the foundation of the saints of previous generations who committed themselves to the gospel. Help me to keep my eyes on your wider purposes, not only for my own blessing but for the blessings of others.