“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://tomsims.substack.com/p/not-ashamed-how-to-talk-to-rome-about