Unashamed of the Gospel

Scripture: Romans 1:16 (ESV)

"For I am not ashamed of the gospel, for it is the power of God for salvation to everyone who believes, to the Jew first and also to the Greek.”

Biblical Context

Who wrote it:

The Apostle Paul authored the letter to the Romans around A.D. 57. Paul was writing from Corinth during his third missionary journey.

To whom it was written:

Paul wrote to the believers in Rome—a diverse group of Jewish and Gentile Christians living in the capital of the Roman Empire. He had not yet visited them but longed to encourage and instruct them in the truths of the gospel.

What’s happening in this verse:

Romans 1:16 is Paul’s thesis statement for the entire letter. After a brief introduction and expression of longing to visit the Roman church, Paul boldly declares his confidence in the gospel. He is not ashamed of it, even in the face of persecution, mockery, or rejection. Why? Because it is the power of God to save everyone who believes. This verse introduces key themes of Romans: salvation by faith, the universality of the gospel, and the centrality of the cross.

L.I.G.H.T.E.R. Method

LORD

This verse reveals that God is powerful and inclusive. His salvation isn’t partial or limited—it is global and transformative. He is not passive; His gospel carries active, divine power that changes lives. God is also personal—He saves “everyone who believes,” showing both His might and mercy.

INWARD

Paul’s boldness challenges us. Are we unashamed of the gospel? Or do we hide our faith when it's inconvenient or unpopular? This verse reveals where we may fear man more than we honor God. It exposes hesitation, fear, or embarrassment when sharing Jesus. It’s a heart check: do I value the gospel enough to stand for it boldly?

GOSPEL

The verse is the gospel in a sentence. It speaks of God's power, salvation, faith, and inclusivity. Salvation is not achieved by works but by believing in the message of Christ’s death and resurrection. The gospel is the only way to be made right with God—and Paul is unashamed because he knows it’s the only hope for humanity.

HOPE

Romans 1:16 gives us unshakable hope. It reminds us that the gospel works—it saves, transforms, and delivers. God’s power is not a theory—it’s alive and active in the lives of all who believe. No matter how dark the world gets, the gospel is still saving people every day.

TAKEAWAY

The gospel is not something to be whispered—it’s something to be declared. Being unashamed isn’t just about courage; it’s about understanding the value of what we’ve received. If the gospel has saved us, we must honor it by boldly sharing it.

EQUIP

This verse equips us with confidence in our witness. We don’t need to rely on persuasive words—the gospel carries its own power. When we share Christ, we’re unleashing God’s salvation into someone’s life. That should give us courage, not fear.

S.P.E.A.R. Method

SIN

The sin exposed is shame—or fear—about identifying with Christ. Many believers remain silent because they fear rejection, offense, or discomfort. Paul challenges this with his declaration: “I am not ashamed.” To be ashamed of the gospel is to undervalue what God has done.

PROMISE

There is a powerful promise here: the gospel saves everyone who believes. It’s not limited by ethnicity, background, or past mistakes. It is available to all—and guaranteed to work for those who place their faith in Christ. It’s not man's effort that saves—it’s God’s power.

ENCOURAGEMENT

Paul’s confidence is contagious. If he can boldly preach in the heart of the Roman Empire, we can stand for Christ where we are. This verse reminds us that we are part of something eternal, powerful, and beautiful. We are messengers of the greatest news on Earth.

ACTION

The action is clear: live and speak unashamedly. Step out. Share the gospel. Invite people into the salvation story. Don’t be silenced by fear—be driven by the love and power of God that rescued you and is able to rescue others.

R.E.P.A.I.R. Method

REPLACE

Replace the lie that you have to hide your faith with the truth that the gospel is your greatest treasure. Replace fear with boldness. Replace silence with proclamation. Replace insecurity with spiritual authority through Christ.

EXAMPLE

Paul is a stunning example of gospel courage. He faced imprisonment, beatings, and mockery—but never backed down. He knew the value of the message and chose to prioritize the mission over his own comfort. His life shows us that being unashamed is worth it.

PRAYER

This verse leads us to pray for courage and clarity. “God, help me to love the gospel so deeply that I can’t help but speak it. Remove any shame or fear that keeps me silent. Let my life echo Paul’s boldness.”

ASSIGNMENT

Your assignment is to share the gospel without apology. In your words, lifestyle, and testimony, make it clear that you belong to Jesus. Look for one opportunity today to speak about what Christ has done in your life.

INSPIRE

Romans 1:16 lights a fire. It reminds us that the gospel isn’t just a belief—it’s a power. And we carry that power in us. There is no greater privilege than sharing the message that saves souls and changes eternity.

L.A.R.G.E.R. Method

LIE

The lie exposed is that faith should be private, or that the gospel is outdated or offensive. Culture often tries to make believers feel embarrassed for believing in Jesus. This verse confronts that head-on and replaces it with truth and confidence.

ASSIGNMENT

You are called to stand boldly. Your assignment is to live a gospel-centered life and speak gospel-centered truth in a world that desperately needs it. This isn’t about being loud—it’s about being loyal to Christ no matter the cost.

REPLACE

Replace silence with witness. Replace shame with confidence. Replace hesitation with obedience. The gospel doesn’t need to be rebranded—it just needs to be released.

GOSPEL

The gospel is the power of God. Not a concept. Not a tradition. Not a philosophy. Power. Power that saves. Power that transforms. Power that unites all who believe—Jew and Gentile alike—into one redeemed family.

EXALT

This verse exalts Christ as the source of all salvation. It magnifies the gospel as the greatest gift ever given. It lifts God high for providing a way for all people to be rescued. It pushes us to praise Him—not just with our songs, but with our lives.

Prayer

God, I thank You for the gospel—the power that saved me and is still saving others. Forgive me for the times I’ve been silent or ashamed. I don’t want to hide what You’ve done. Help me to live boldly, speak freely, and love courageously. Let Your power flow through my life, so that others may believe and be transformed. Give me holy courage today to stand for the truth in grace and in love. In Jesus’ name, amen.

How will you respond?