In the introduction leading up to this important statement, the Apostle Paul shares that he desires a fruitful ministry among those living in Rome, hoping that he can be used to encourage and deepen them in their faith. 

The Apostle was eager to preach the good news, the gospel, to those in Rome just as in other cities. Why? Because he knew that God powerfully uses it to save those who believe. There should be no shame in the heart of a Christian to share freely that Christ has died and risen again to free captive sinners who put their trust in him. It is our lifeblood, to share this good news with a dying world.

God is gracious in offering this free gift of salvation from sin to everyone who believes. Paul singles out two categories of people--the Jews and Greeks. The Jews were the covenant people of God, while the Greeks were everyone else in the known world. All are saved the same way, through faith in the promised Messiah, Jesus.

Believers in the Church are called to carry the same life-giving message. We have the privilege of sharing the good news with people that we encounter each day. May we do this boldly with joy.