Peter Barnes | Romans 15:14-16
SERMON NOTES
PAUL AS PASTOR AND PRIEST
(Romans 15:14-16)
1. The ministry of encouragement.
– 15:14; this is not simply aiming to get the Romans to do right, nor is it flattery
– Paul could be critical – 1 Cor.3:1; Gal.3:1
– the Romans are on the right track and growing (Prov.9:8; note Rom.3:12; 1 Cor.13:12 – no perfectionism)
2. The need for tact.
– 15:15; Paul has said some bold things (e.g. Rom.11:17-22; 14:1, 4)
– flattery is wrong (Prov.29:5; Rom.16:18) but sensitivity is right (e.g. Phil.4:10-11, 14)
3. The priestly work of evangelism.
– 15:16; Paul uses priestly language as in Rom.12:1
– Isa. 66:20
– Paul is offering up the Gentiles in Christ to God through the Holy Spirit