Observations
Paul did not break his letters up in to chapters and verses. It is believed that the modern chapter and verse divisions we have today were basically the work of Stephen Langton the Archbishop of Canterbury from 1207 to his death in 1228. The chapter and verse divisions are quite useful for reference purposes but they were not divinely inspired and they at times hinder the clarity of the flow of thought in the text.
As I mentioned a few days ago, the first eight chapters of Romans are basically Paul’s theology. Chapters nine through eleven address the relationship between the Church and Israel. Chapters twelve through fourteen provide instruction for presenting our bodies as living sacrifices which is our spiritual act of worship. And chapter fifteen? Well, the first 22 verses seem to be finishing up the instructions from the preceding three chapters and giving a final summary of the Israel / Church relationship.
I point this out because many casual readers of the Bible are not aware that they should read for complete thoughts and ideas rather than be forced into thinking chapters and verses.
In verse twenty-three Paul turns toward more personal remarks. I would like to point out verse thirty. “I urge you, brothers, by our Lord Jesus Christ and by the love of the Spirit, to join me in my struggle by praying to God for me.” Every time you pray for a missionary or your pastor, or for an elder or Sunday School teacher or anyone engaged in service for the Lord, you are sharing in their ministry. You are playing a vital role in making their service effective and fruitful, and as such you will share in their reward.
May the God of peace be with you this day.
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