We are going through the book of Romans together as a church. The Apostle Paul, who wrote Romans, has some challenging things to share with the churches in Rome in the chapters to come. But, he says: “For I long to see you, that I may impart to you some spiritual gift to strengthen you—that is, that we may be mutually encouraged by each other's faith, both yours and mine” (Romans 1:11-12). What does it look like to mutually encourage one another? Sometimes it can be just as hard to give encouragement as it is to receive encouragement from others. And Paul seems to be able to do both because of what he calls a spiritual gift. Hopefully this morning, God’s Word can show us how His grace and how the gospel allows us to be both good givers and receivers of the encouragement that flows out of all that God has graciously given us.

The book of Romans is a letter written by the Apostle Paul to churches scattered throughout Rome. But more specifically, he says that he wrote this letter to saints through whom the light of Christ wants to shine. God has used the book of Romans to change the lives of saints and sinners like you and me throughout history since it was written. It has enough depth to challenge us to a lifetime of deep growth in faith and yet is so simple that even the newest Christian can be transformed by what is in it. Last week, Romans 1:1-4 told us who CHRIST is and who Paul is in Christ. This morning the next 4 verses will tell us who WE are IN CHRIST. Who we are called to be and what we are called to do as saints who are set apart and sent out to let the light of Christ shine through us.

We are starting a new sermon series going through the book of Romans together as a church! Whether you are exploring faith, just starting out as a Christian or wanting to grow deeper in your walk with God, Romans is known for its rich, deep, glorious, and challenging truths about what it means to live life out of the power of the gospel. There is something for everyone in this amazing, life-changing book! Come discover the riches of God's grace in Christ!