"I am"

In Romans 1:14-17, Paul wrote, “I am debtor both to the Greeks, and to the Barbarians; both to the wise, and to the unwise. So, as much as in me is, I am ready to preach the gospel to you that are at Rome also. For I am not ashamed of the gospel of Christ: for it is the power of God unto salvation to every one that believeth; to the Jew first, and also to the Greek. For therein is the righteousness of God revealed from faith to faith: as it is written, The just shall live by faith.” There are three great “I am” statements from which we would benefit.

First, Paul said, “I am debtor.” He had certainly tasted the grace of God (1 Corinthians 9:13-18), and as he was called to be an apostle, he knew he was indebted to the accomplish the task. All of us are saved by the grace of God (Titus 3:1-7). None of could save ourselves without God. Because of this, there is no place for pride and arrogance in serving Christ. Our debt is to live for the Lord and try to spread His gospel.

Second, Paul said, “I am eager.” Every Christian should have a willingness or attitude to work. This takes training and preparation, study and reading (2 Timothy 2:15). Because of the preparation, we are ready to face whatever comes our way. The scriptures will lead us to salvation (2 Timothy 3:15-17). It will allow us to walk worthy of the Lord (Ephesians 4:1). Other people watch our behavior (1 Peter 2:11-12), so we must be a light to the world (Matthew 5:13-16).

Third, Paul said, “I am not ashamed.” We cannot live in quietness -- we need to preach. Matthew 10:33 states a solemn punishment for people who refuse to confess Him. Denial of Christ or hypocrisy will lead to judgment (Hebrews 10:36-39). It will all come down to will. There are two wills: the will or Christ and your will. Which “will” will you follow? If we are ashamed of the gospel, people will be lost (Romans 10:13-15, 17). Standing up for Christ does take courage, but not as much as hanging on a cross! If you are ashamed, think of what the Lord did for you.

Kyle Campbell