Monday 21 April 2025

Psalm 16

Background
For a recent appointment I had to take two documents of identification. It was necessary to prove I was the person they expected before any further action could take place. It is generally accepted that Paul’s letter to the Romans is written to people who have not yet met him and Paul therefore needs to set out his credentials. The introduction to Romans is the longest for any of Paul’s letters and yet the greeting at the end (v. 7) is the shortest. The whole of the passage for today is one sentence.

In verse 1 Paul highlights three things: he is a servant, an apostle and he is set apart.

In identifying himself as a servant, Paul shows first that he is a Christian before mentioning anything else. Being a follower of Jesus comes first and foremost in a believer’s life. No matter what our gifts and callings, age, health or infirmity, nothing can escape the fact that we are followers of Jesus Christ. It is important in Easter week to proclaim we are called to serve.

Saying Paul is an 'apostle', is used here in the meaning of being ‘sent’. It is mentioned again in verse 5 where his role is clearly to minister to the Gentiles (non Jews). Unlike the 12 disciples who walked with Jesus, Paul’s authority as an apostle comes from his experience at his conversion. His calling is fulfilled in being sent to the Gentiles to proclaim the gospel.

Paul is 'set apart'. Set apart is also the root behind the word Pharisee. Paul is set apart for the gospel of God. This, like the whole introduction, strikes a similar pattern to the calling of the prophets from the Old Testament, Jeremiah 1:5 is an example.

In verse 4 Paul brings this all together by putting the basis of his authority (and that of all Christians who proclaim the gospel) on the resurrection of Jesus.

Credentials do matter, but the gospel is not about credentials, it is about proclaiming the risen Lord.

To Ponder:

• What does 'set apart' look like for a believer today?
• What are your credentials to speak of Christ?

Prayer
Gracious God, whatever I do this day, help me to live out my calling as a follower of Christ. Amen.

Bible notes author: The Revd Paul Davis
Paul Davis is a supernumerary minister in the Chorley and Leyland Circuit.