June 13, 2004
Morning Sermon Outline
“Our Hope for Covenant Unity”
Romans 15:7-13

I. Note that here, at least in verse :7, Paul is still dealing with the great topic of Christian Unity

1. The emphasis shows the topic’s great importance –
2. The emphasis is probably because this is an area where we tend to fail
3. This emphasis reaches it’s height here

II. Note here too, that Paul continues to treat this topic in a very positive way, connecting our unity to the GREAT THEMES of our Faith!

1. Note we follow the example of Christ when we receive one another
2. Note Christ’s commitment to the Covenant symbolized by circumcision

III. To fully understand this passage we must understand how Paul uses the term “circumcision”

1. Sometimes he uses it to describe the Jewish people (that sort of makes sense here)
2. Yet, here I believe he is using it primarily as a symbol (sign and seal) of God’s Covenant
3. We can understand the notions of a sign and seal with our culture’s symbols of a Covenant (rings)
4. Christ is the administrator (minister) of God’s Covenant -
A. God the Father is the Contractor of the Covenant from heaven’s side – He establishes the terms
B. Christ is the Contractor of the Covenant from man’s side
C. Christ meets all the demands of the Covenant we could not – He keeps God’s law perfectly / Christ pays the penalty for our breach of this Covenant
D. In this way Christ confirms or makes sure God’s promises for us
5. The Covenant had fine print including the Gentiles

IV. Our Covenant relationship with God and Christ is our reason for:

1. Unbounded confident hope
A. Our covenant keeping is not dependent on our own powers
B. Our covenant breaking need not result in our condemnation
2. Joy unspeakable
3. Peace that passes understanding
4. Unity with one another

Pastor Arnold Brevick