Not Ashamed

“For I am not ashamed of the gospel of Christ: for it is the power of God unto salvation to every one that believeth; to the Jew first, and also to the Greek.”— Romans 1:16 The first time we see the words “not ashamed” in the Bible is Genesis 2:25. Before they sinned, Adam and Eve were naked and not ashamed. After that, shame came upon humanity. We were plunged into a frenzy of shameful thoughts, deeds, and words. We began hiding, covering, blaming, fearing, and fleeing. Then came Jesus. He proclaimed the kingdom. He called people to repentance. Through His death and resurrection, He removed our condemnation and shame. Now, joyfully, openly, and without shame, we proclaim the gospel to all who will hear. It is good news. That is what the word “gospel” means. To those lost in a sea of despair and tossed about by pounding winds, the message of Jesus is very good news. It is nothing of which to be ashamed. I love the old song that says, “I thank God for the lighthouse; I owe my life to Him.” Jesus is the lighthouse who has saved us from the rocks of sin. How could we ever be ashamed of such good news? Paul says the gospel is the power of God unto salvation. In its preaching and telling, it affects people deeply and brings them to faith. Like a mighty lighthouse, the light from the message penetrates the darkness. However, it requires belief. The gospel is “to every one that believeth.” It must be embraced and received. That is up to the hearer. It is up to us, the tellers, not to be ashamed. Hebrews 11:16 speaks of those who follow God’s light and says: “God is not ashamed to be called their God: for he hath prepared for them a city.” And 1 John 2:28 says: “…when he shall appear, we may have confidence, and not be ashamed before him at his coming.” The gospel takes us from Eden’s lost innocence to eternal confidence in Christ. Sin brought shame. Jesus brings salvation. So we say with Paul: I am not ashamed of the gospel of Christ. […]

https://pastortom.blog/2026/06/17/not-ashamed/

⚠️✝️🇺🇦Restoration of Dormition Cathedral necessary following Russia’a War Crime attack may take up to two years, Preserve Director says (more) https://www.ukrinform.net/rubric-society/4134449-restoration-of-dormition-cathedral-may-take-up-to-two-years-preserve-director-says.html #Ukraine #WarCrime #Press #Brussels #Media #ICC #Hague #PACE #UK #OSCE #Vatican #PopeLeo #Rome #Italy #Catholics #Christianity #CoE #News #UN #US #Bulgaria #Sofia #Headlines #Russia #Moscow #russiaUkraineWar
#12yrInvasionOfUkraine #RussiansAreBabyKillers

Praying for Hearts to Know God

A Message to Church Leaders from Ephesians 1:15-17 Church leadership has always required far more than organizational ability, persuasive speech, or strategic planning. The church of Jesus Christ is not sustained by human wisdom but by the power and presence of God. Every generation is tempted to believe that the next program, the next innovation, or the next charismatic personality will secure the future of the church, yet the apostle Paul points leaders in a very different direction. In […]

https://dailyintheword.blog/2026/06/16/praying-for-hearts-to-know-god/

Nope, Christians — You Cannot Separate the History of Violence from the Belief System
#christianity
#violence
#religion
https://medium.com/scientists-free-from-religious/nope-christians-you-cannot-separate-the-history-of-violence-from-the-belief-system-f53ff426b5ea

What's up with people who think god talks to them?

https://hexbear.net/post/8783000

The Prayer That Leads to Knowing God

A Sermon Reflecting on Ephesians 1:15–17 The Christian life is not merely about beginning well; it is about growing continually in the knowledge of God. Many people long for greater peace, greater joy, greater confidence, and greater purpose, yet they seek these things through circumstances, possessions, achievements, or experiences. The Apostle Paul reminds the church that the deepest need of every believer is not first a change in outward circumstances but a deeper understanding of the […]

https://dailyintheword.blog/2026/06/16/the-prayer-that-leads-to-knowing-god/

Cemetery ruins at St. Mary Church, Nowy Kościół, Poland

The Prayer for Wisdom and Revelation

A Theological Commentary on Ephesians 1:15-17 Ephesians 1:15–17 stands as one of the most profound apostolic prayers in the New Testament. Rather than merely introducing the theological arguments that follow, these verses reveal the pastoral heart of Paul and establish a framework for understanding Christian knowledge, spiritual growth, and divine revelation. The apostle's prayer is not primarily concerned with external prosperity, physical safety, or even ministerial success. Instead, he […]

https://dailyintheword.blog/2026/06/16/the-prayer-for-wisdom-and-revelation/