Romans 10. The Apostle Paul is rather crushed by the reality that many of his own Jewish people have refused to believe the good news of the gospel that Jesus was the Messiah and was crucified, buried, and raised to life on the third day. He understood that simply being Jewish by bloodline would not put them in a right relationship with God, and he was grieved to think of their loss. He wrote, “Brothers and sisters, my heart’s desire and prayer to God for them is that they may be saved.” (10:1)

Paul is so concerned that he makes one explicit appeal to the Jews, clarifying exactly how they can be saved. This text provides one of the most succinct explanations of the gospel in the whole Bible:

If you confess with your mouth that Jesus is Lord and believe in your heart that God raised him from the dead, you will be saved. For with the heart, one believes and is justified, and with the mouth one confesses and is saved.  For the Scripture says, “Everyone who believes in him will not be put to shame.” For there is no distinction between Jew and Greek; for the same Lord is Lord of all, bestowing his riches on all who call on him. For everyone who calls on the name of the Lord will be saved.”(10:9-13)

This is the most important news ever – truly good news that all people need to hear. And so Paul concludes with an appeal for believers to share the gospel with others. How are they to believe in him of whom they have never heard? How will they hear without someone preaching? … How beautiful are the feet of those who preach the good news! (10:14-15)

If you know this good news, and you enjoy a right relationship with God through faith, who do you need to share it with? Consider memorizing Romans 10:9 as a succinct statement of what is required for salvation. Ask the Lord who you can share the good news with today!