Have you ever noticed the “bookends” in Paul’s letter to the Romans? At the beginning and end of Romans, Paul states that the purpose of his ministry was to “bring about the obedience of faith.” Romans 1:5 and 16:26.
Paul traveled far and wide to inspire faith in many places, but he was looking for more than mere faith. Paul saw faith as a means to an end, with the end being obedience.
We also see the importance of obedience in the Great Commission. Jesus told us to “go and make disciples of all nations, … teaching them to obey everything I have commanded you.” Matt.28:19-20 NIV. Obedience to Jesus’ commands is therefore the goal of the Great Commission; it is the fruit He desires from the faith that we gain by believing the good news.
In our ministry we desire to see lives transformed by the power of God. New faith, coupled with each new believer’s decision “to deny himself, pick up his cross daily and follow Jesus”, creates this transformation. Such people have been so profoundly impacted by the gospel message that they are willing to suffer inconvenience and even suffering in this life for the sake of the Name.
Thank you for your prayer, encouragement and support as we travel to “bring about the obedience of faith.”