In the final sermon of the Loved and Called series through Romans, “Strengthened” (Romans 16:25–27), Paul’s closing doxology reminds believers that God is the one who strengthens His people through the gospel, the preaching of Jesus Christ, and the revelation of His Word. The gospel gives weary and discouraged Christians the good news of God’s grace and Christ’s victory over sin, death, and darkness; preaching proclaims that victory and brings God’s strengthening power to His people; and Scripture, though not physically holy in its paper or binding, is God’s inspired and powerful Word through which the Holy Spirit works to strengthen His saints. This strengthening is ultimately intended to produce the “obedience of faith”—a growing faith that leads to greater obedience and maturity. As the church has been strengthened through Romans throughout history, Paul’s final emphasis is that God continues His work in His people so that, through Jesus Christ, all glory belongs to the only wise God forever.

In this week's passage, Paul paints a picture of what it means to live a life that worships God in every area. We were created to worship, and our lives will inevitably reflect whatever we place at the center of our affection and devotion. As Christians, we are called to direct that worship toward the Lord, the only one worthy of our praise and devotion. We worship Him first with our voices, lifting up songs of praise that rehearse the truths of Scripture, teach us the gospel, and prepare our hearts for faithful living. We worship Him with our actions, recognizing that everything from our everyday decisions to the way we love, serve, give, and care for others can bring glory to God. Finally, we worship Him with our testimony, making the gospel visible to the world through our changed lives and sharing the good news of how Jesus has restored our relationship with the Father. Even in seasons of suffering, disappointment, and uncertainty, we can worship by acknowledging God's sovereignty, depending on His provision, and trusting His kingship. Ultimately, whole-life worship is the natural response of those who have been transformed by the gospel: lifting our voices, living faithfully, and letting our light shine so that others may see our good works and give glory to our Father in heaven.

Application: Could your obedience to Christ be seen distinctly? Do you rejoice in the obedience of your brothers and sisters?

What does it look like for you to be wise in what is good and innocent in what is evil? Can you spot the difference between truth and false teaching?

God promises to crush Satan under the church’s feet. How is that encouraging to you? How should you interact with the church given that it is God’s means of victory in this world?

Where do you need to be strengthened by the grace of our Lord Jesus Christ today.

Who are the people that you’re walking with who are your partners in ministry? Who are the people who encourage, challenge, support you? Paul never did it alone, neither should we.