APRIL 25, 2026 – A PLEASING OFFERING

READ: Rom. 15:14–16: … that I might be a minister of Jesus Christ to the Gentiles, ministering the gospel of God, that the offering of the Gentiles might be acceptable, sanctified by the Holy Spirit.

Paul has pointed to weakness in mutual dealings, but that does not mean that no good qualities and activities are to be observed in the congregation. The gospel has indeed borne fruit in the congregation of Rome.

Paul mentions rich gifts that promote the communion of saints: you are full of goodness—kindness and generosity; filled with all knowledge—discernment; and also able to admonish one another. The latter Paul values positively.

In the church this is not always appreciated, certainly not in our postmodern time, in which criticism is often interpreted negatively because everyone may have his own opinion. Yet this is a task the Lord gives us in His Word; see also Col. 3:16; 1 Thess. 5:12; Heb. 3:13. Of course, this concerns admonition and correction in love and with patience, to result in repentance and edification.

That Paul has expressed himself rather critically about the mutual conduct between weak and strong does not proceed from unkindness but from the calling he has received from Christ.

They must understand it as his priestly task for Gentiles who have come to faith, so that their life and work may become an offering to the Lord, pleasing to Him (v.16; cf. Rom. 12:1; 1 Pet. 2:5). For this it is also necessary that our works be sanctified by the Holy Spirit.

How do you view mutual admonition?

Singing: Ps. 116:4, 5