United in Faith and Praise

And again he saith, Rejoice, ye Gentiles, with his people. And again, Praise the Lord, all ye Gentiles; and laud him, all ye people. And again, Esaias saith, There shall be a root of Jesse, and he that shall rise to reign over the Gentiles; in him shall the Gentiles trust. (Romans 15:10-12)

God's love is not for a specific people group but for all humanity that would put their faith in Him. In Romans 15:10-12, the Apostle Paul reminded us of the words of the prophets, saying we should rejoice knowing that now we are His. Paul encouraged us, as Gentiles (meaning anyone who isn't Jewish), to celebrate and rejoice together with God's chosen people. Why? Because in Christ, we're all part of God's enormous family. Every time we meet together, it is like a massive, joyful family reunion.

Despite the world's emphasis on differences, we should celebrate our shared faith in Jesus. No matter where we're from or what our background is, all Christians have decided to trust Jesus as Savior and Lord and give their lives to Him. We are all part of God’s family.

It's wonderful to see people of different skin tones and backgrounds singing praises together, trusting in Jesus. Instead of dwelling on what makes us different, let's celebrate the unity we have in Christ.

Practical Application

Take time today to pray for unity among believers in your city and area. Ask God to help others see His love in every member of His diverse family. Find an opportunity to embrace those from different backgrounds who believe in Christ just like you.

Isaiah 11:10; Matthew 12:21

Believing God is better than Being Offended

Now I say that Jesus Christ was a minister of the circumcision for the truth of God, to confirm the promises made unto the fathers: And that the Gentiles might glorify God for his mercy; as it is written, For this cause I will confess to thee among the Gentiles, and sing unto thy name. (Romans 15:8-9)

Romans 15:8-9 explains that Jesus’ ministry was first to the circumcision, meaning the Jews. Paul said that Jesus came with a specific purpose: to fulfill the promises made to the patriarchs. Jesus did just that, fulfilling well over 300 prophesies about the Messiah. Among those prophesies were ones that stated His ministry would reach far beyond the Jewish people and minister to the Gentiles as well.

The Gospels tell of an encounter between Jesus and a Gentile woman — she approached Him, seeking healing for her daughter, who was possessed. Jesus said that it was not fit to give God’s gift to "dogs," a term commonly applied to Gentiles.

Instead of being insulted or offended, her faith remained unshaken. She likened herself to dogs who partake of crumbs from their master's table. He told her because of her great faith, she would have her request. Here, Jesus ministered to a Gentile because of her faith, not because of her background or lineage.

God’s family is composed of all people who decide to believe and live for Him. He does not judge us based on our background. Faith pleases God, so He looks to see our faith in Him, not where we came from.

Practical Application

Take a lesson from the Gentile woman’s faith. When you have an opportunity to become offended or upset about something, pause, and see where you can place your faith instead. Believing God for His power to change things will bring you better results than harboring bitterness and anger.

Matthew 15:24; 2 Corinthians 1:20

Receiving One Another

That ye may with one mind and one mouth glorify God, even the Father of our Lord Jesus Christ. Wherefore receive ye one another, as Christ also received us to the glory of God. (Romans 15:6-7)

The Apostle Paul instructed us to receive ye one another, as Christ also received us.

Paul was calling the body of Christ to unity, not just any unity, but the unity that brings glory to God. Believers should work together like instruments in an orchestra. Each instrument is uniquely designed and very different from the others, yet together the sound is much more powerful than any one could be individually.

Think about how Jesus welcomed you into His family. He didn't care about your past mistakes or the color of your skin or where you came from. He loved us each uniquely and unconditionally and offered us the incredible gift of salvation.

As followers of Jesus, we're called to do the same. We should open our hearts and arms to others, just as Jesus did for us.

The world teaches people to be defensive and push back from one another, yet Jesus told us we are called to receive those who believe. Truly receiving someone means valuing them for who they are, no matter what their background or mistakes are. It's an act of God’s love and hospitality.

Think about the people in your life. Do you merely tolerate them, or do you genuinely receive them? Are you quick to judge, or are you willing to extend a hand of friendship and understanding? Christ's example teaches us that to receive someone is to see them through the eyes of love and compassion.

Practical Application

How can you receive someone well today? Think about those God places in your path and determine that how you respond, connect, and engage will be with the attitude of receiving them as Christ did you.

Matthew 10:40; Mark 9:37