"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."

-Romans 1:16

When I placed my faith in Christ, I found myself burdened for the salvation of others. As a result the above became my favorite verse of Scripture. However, it means more than identifying as a Christian or even boldly proclaiming Christ. Both the exhortation and motivation for not being ashamed of the gospel is found here. First, the gospel is the power of God. Because it is of God, it is perfect and without flaw. It transcends all the psychological and philosophical answers to life and death. Only God could ordain such an absolute truth that defies human reason yet is not unreasonable. Secondly, we are inspired not to be ashamed because the gospel is the avenue of salvation open to everyone. I find no exception here, for “WHOSOEVER WILL CALL UPON THE NAME OF THE LORD WILL BE SAVED.” No wonder the gospel literally means the “good news” that God sent into the world. Therefore, there is no need to be ashamed of the gospel in the presence of anyone, at any place or anytime. As believers, what a privilege to be “ambassadors for Christ”! Be encouraged.

References: Romans 1:16; Romans 10:13; 2 Corinthians 5:20