Notes on Lecture by Pastor John Piper

Series on the Book of Romans

Focus: Romans 1:16-17

• These verses are considered the thesis statement of the gospel and entire book of Romans.
• The focus will be on Romans 1:16 for three sermons and Romans 1:17 for two sermons.

Romans 1:16 Reading

• "For 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."
• Sermons:
  1. "I am not ashamed"
  2. The power of God for salvation
  3. To the Jew first and also to the Greek

Sermon Theme: Not Ashamed of the Gospel

Link to Preceding Verse (Romans 1:15)

• Verse 16 supports verse 15; it shows Paul's eagerness to preach the gospel.

Illustrations of Shame

• Children and the concept of being embarrassed:
  • Example 1: A boy brags he can outrun a new kid but loses the race.
  • Example 2: Someone brags about their father's superior position only to find out he is arrested for embezzling.
  • Example 3: Dressing inappropriately for a party.
  • Example 4: Freezing on stage during a play due to nervousness.

Overcoming Shame

• Paul's Approach: Paul is not avoiding shame by keeping himself in good light with others.
• Paul's Experience: Despite numerous labors, imprisonments, beatings, dangers (2 Corinthians 11:23-26), Paul's boldness in the gospel invited shame but didn’t defeat him.

Avoiding Shame vs. Facing Shame

• The world teaches to avoid shame by pleasing others; Paul’s method is not to gain approval but to endure it confidently.

Paul's Debt to Preach the Gospel

• He felt an obligation across social spectrums, i.e., Grecians, Barbarians, wise, and foolish.
• Reaction to perceived shame from different social groups.

Politicization Warning

• Paul’s reaction to cultured despisers of the gospel contrasted to today's potential disdains or debtors.

Jesus' Example of Handling Shame

• Jesus endured shame through obedience and courage, focused on the joy set before Him (Hebrews 12:2).
• Jesus did not let shame rule Him, despised it, and followed His mission despite shameful acts heaped upon Him.

Application for Believers

• Believers need to adopt a similar stance as Jesus: despise shame and not let it rule their behavior or faith.
• The gospel's power helps believers see beyond immediate shame.

Closing Message

• Expect to face shame for the gospel but embrace Jesus' example of enduring and despising shame.

Prayer and Conclusion

• Pastor John Piper prays for empowerment and a release from the feeling of shame for the gospel message.

Contact and Resources

• For further information, resources, and sermons from John Piper, visit Desiring God Ministries - www.desiringgod.org