John Piper: Romans 1:16 (2)

Jun 10, 2024

Pastor John Piper – Sermon Summary

Introduction

  • Speaker: Pastor John Piper (Desiring God Ministries)
  • Context: Second message on this verse in the Book of Romans
  • Historical Context: Significant to many Christians, including Martin Luther
  • Objective: To explore the meaning of Romans 1:16

Key Verse: Romans 1:16

“I am not ashamed of the gospel, for it is the power of God for salvation to everyone who believes, to the Jew first and also to the Greek.”

Key Themes

Shame and the Gospel

  • Difference: Being shamed for the gospel vs. being ashamed of the gospel
  • Expectation: Faithful Christians will experience shaming behaviors
  • Reaction: Shaming should not lead to being ashamed

Jesus and Paul: Handling Shame

  • Example of Jesus: Encountered utmost shaming during crucifixion
  • Endurance of Jesus: For the joy set before Him, He endured the cross
  • Application to Paul: Paul’s view that the gospel is the power of God unto salvation helps believers endure shame
  • Ultimate Joy: Looking beyond shame to the triumph of the resurrection and eternal life

The Power of the Gospel

  • Not Adjusting the Gospel: Avoid tweaking it to avoid offense
    • Example: The word of the cross is foolishness to the perishing
    • Reality: The gospel will always be divisive, causing reactions of both shame and praise

Modern Context

  • Historical Shifts: Previous generations addressed gospel opposition differently
  • 1990s: Being labeled ‘arrogant’ rather than ‘wrong'
  • Future Changes: Acknowledge that shaming forms will evolve but will always be present

Main Question: What is Salvation in Romans 1:16?

Conversion or Final Salvation?

  • Conversion: The moment one becomes a believer
  • Future Salvation: Final deliverance from judgment and being with the Lord eternally
  • Argument: Paul refers to ongoing belief leading to final salvation

Supporting Points

1. Argument from Other Scriptures

  • 2 Thessalonians 2:13; 2 Corinthians 7:10; Hebrews 9:28; 1 Peter 1:5
  • Emphasis: Salvation involves a process leading to final glorification

2. Grammatic Consideration

  • Phrase ‘unto salvation’: Usually refers to the end-time salvation
  • Examples: 2 Corinthians 7:10; Hebrews 9:28; 1 Peter 1:5

3. Application to Believers

  • Continuous Belief: Salvation is for those continually believing
  • Phrase’s Meaning: The gospel saves those who keep believing daily

4. Contextual Reasoning

  • Paul’s Reasoning: Preaching to believers in Rome
  • Purpose: To enable endurance and final salvation

Call to Action

  • Daily Belief: Christians should daily feed on the gospel, trust in it
  • Power of the Gospel: Rest in its power for final salvation

Conclusion

  • Hymn Reference: “I Love to Tell the Story” – Reflects the enduring power of the gospel

Resources:

  • Desiring God Ministries: www.desiringgod.org
  • Contact Information: Mailing address, phone number, and available resources