Daily Devotions
Romans
"That my service for Jerusalem may be acceptable to the saints..."
Text: Romans 15:31
SPECIFIC PRAYER REQUEST II
Once again, let us ponder the prayer requests Paul made.
“That I may be delivered from those in Judea who do not believe,
and that my service for Jerusalem may be acceptable
to the saints.”
Romans 15:31
1. Jerusalem
a) Jerusalem was a difficult city to minister in.
b) The following are some reasons why this was the case:-
i) Rigid religious leaders opposed to the Gospel.
ii) Centuries of living under strict religious laws.
iii) Anyone who was not considered “orthodox” was suspect.
c) Paul was not sure how his service for Jerusalem would turn out.
2. Service for Jerusalem
a) Paul would have loved to reach many with the Gospel of Christ.
b) He was bringing a special love gift from the brethren living in Macedonia and Achaia.
c) This special love gift came from Gentiles; and thus the gift may or may not be received well.
3. Acceptable to the saints
Paul was aware that many believers (“saints”) were still affected by:-
i) Their religious upbringing.
ii) Their coloured social perspective of Gentiles.
iii) Their lack of full spiritual maturity (concerning Gentiles).
EVERYTHING BROUGHT TO GOD IN PRAYER
Paul knew that he could only do his best. What he could not control, was best left to the Lord in prayer.