Your June 30th Expository Sermon

The Path to Righteousness (Romans 10:1-13))

Sermon Outline: [NOTE to Paid subscribers — scroll down for the full manuscript sermon].

Sermon Title: The Path to Righteousness (Romans 10:1-13)

Introduction

Romans 10:1-13 guides us into an essential discussion about the righteousness that comes from faith and the accessibility of salvation through Christ. Paul continues his heartfelt concern for Israel, emphasizing the distinction between self-righteousness based on the law and the righteousness through faith in Christ. This passage calls us to grasp the simplicity and inclusivity of the Gospel message. As we explore these verses, we will uncover Paul's deep desire for his people's salvation, the problem of self-righteousness, and the pathway to true righteousness.

I. Paul’s Passionate Desire (Romans 10:1-2)

Heartfelt Concern:

Brothers, my heart's desire and prayer to God for them is that they may be saved. For I bear them witness that they have a zeal for God, but not according to knowledge. (Romans 10:1-2). Paul begins by expressing his deep desire and prayer for the salvation of Israel. His concern reflects a genuine love for his people and a recognition of their misguided zeal.

Paul’s heartfelt concern is a model for us. His longing for the salvation of his fellow Jews challenges us to reflect on our own desire for the salvation of those around us. Do we earnestly pray for our family, friends, and community to come to know Christ? Paul's example encourages us to develop a passion for the lost and to commit to praying fervently for their salvation.

II. Problem of Self-Righteousness (Romans 10:3-4)

Ignorance of God’s Righteousness:

For, being ignorant of the righteousness of God, and seeking to establish their own, they did not submit to God's righteousness. For Christ is the end of the law for righteousness to everyone who believes. (Romans 10:3-4). The Jews' ignorance of God's righteousness leads them to attempt to establish their own righteousness through the law, failing to recognize that Christ fulfills the law and brings righteousness to all who believe.

This self-righteousness is a common problem even today. Many people try to earn their way to heaven through good works, religious rituals, or moral living. However, true righteousness cannot be achieved through human effort; it is a gift from God through faith in Jesus Christ. We must submit to God's righteousness by accepting Christ as our Savior and acknowledging that His sacrifice is sufficient for our salvation.

III. Precepts of Righteousness (Romans 10:5-8)

Law's Requirement:

For Moses writes about the righteousness that is based on the law, that the person who does the commandments shall live by them. (Romans 10:5). Paul contrasts the righteousness based on the law, which demands perfect adherence, with the righteousness based on faith.

Faith's Proclamation:

But the righteousness based on faith says, 'Do not say in your heart, "Who will ascend into heaven?" (that is, to bring Christ down) or "Who will descend into the abyss?" (that is, to bring Christ up from the dead). But what does it say? “The word is near you, in your mouth and in your heart” (that is, the word of faith that we proclaim). (Romans 10:6-8). Righteousness by faith is accessible and near, unlike the impossible demands of the law. It is based on the belief in the work of Christ.

Paul’s words remind us that salvation is not about achieving the impossible but about believing in what Christ has already done. The Gospel message is simple and accessible. It is near to us—in our mouths and hearts. We must simply believe and confess Jesus as Lord.

IV. Profession of Faith (Romans 10:9-10)

Confession and Belief:

Because, if you confess with your mouth that Jesus is Lord and believe in your heart that God raised him from the dead, you will be saved. For with the heart one believes and is justified, and with the mouth one confesses and is saved. (Romans 10:9-10). Salvation comes through a two-fold process: confessing Jesus as Lord and believing in His resurrection. This confession and belief result in justification and salvation.

Paul clarifies that salvation is not about rituals or works but about a heartfelt confession and belief in Jesus. Confessing Jesus as Lord means acknowledging His authority and submitting to His rule in our lives. Believing in His resurrection means trusting in His power over sin and death. This is the essence of the Gospel.

V. Promise of Salvation (Romans 10:11-13)

Universal Promise:

For the Scripture says, “Everyone who believes in him will not be put to shame.” For there is no distinction between Jew and Greek; for the same Lord is Lord of all, bestowing his riches on all who call on him. For “everyone who calls on the name of the Lord will be saved." (Romans 10:11-13). The promise of salvation is universal, available to everyone who believes, regardless of their background. This inclusivity emphasizes that salvation through Christ is accessible to all who call on Him.

This universal promise is a call to evangelism. Knowing that salvation is available to all, we are compelled to share the Gospel with everyone, regardless of their background or past. The simplicity of the Gospel message makes it accessible to all, and our role is to proclaim it faithfully.

Conclusion:

Romans 10:1-13 reveals the heart of the Gospel: salvation by faith in Christ, accessible to all. Paul's passion for his people, the problem of self-righteousness, the precepts of righteousness, the profession of faith, and the promise of salvation guide us to a profound understanding of the simplicity and inclusivity of the Gospel message. Let us embrace this truth, share it boldly, and live out the righteousness that comes from faith, extending the invitation of salvation to everyone we encounter.

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