Paul commits suicide so that he will not be tortured by the Philistines. His body is then mutilated and put on display as a sign of victory for the Philistines. But Israel's warriors retrieve Saul's body and give him a honorable burial. And so ends the reign of Saul and begins the Davidic line of kingship.
In Romans, Paul thanks and blesses everyone he knows in Rome by name. Here is the immensely relational side of Paul. His first salutation goes to a woman, Phoebe, and Paul even speaks to the character of every person as well as how he knows them, and what position they have in the early church. Here is the leader: thanking everyone by name, knowing that people have a "church that meets in their home," challenging and warning the Christians who look up to him.
"Now all glory to God, who is able to make you strong just as my Good News says. This message about Jesus Christ has reveal his plan for you Gentiles, a plan kept secret from the beginning of time. But now as the prophets foretold and as the eternal God has commanded, this message is made to known to all Gentiles everywhere, so that they too might believe and obey him." Romans 16: 25-26
The Good News of the gospel not only brings us salvation in the next life, but gives us strength in this life. Reminds me of a Jeremy Camp lyric, "You hung to make us strong."
And this grand plan to save humanity is now revealed, as it was hidden up until now. God has commanded it, the prophets have spoken it, and now the Jews and Gentiles may believe it.
Be strong today men.
Walker
Paul is a cool guy. I wouldn't mind having him as my preacher. Good thing I have access to most of his 'sermons' and can read then whenever I want!
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