Bible Class - Romans Part 20

On Sunday, February 15, 2026, Cole Tuck led our morning Bible class, diving into Romans 10 (with a brief preview of Romans 11). The discussion centered on Israel's zeal for God without true knowledge, their pursuit of righteousness through works instead of faith in Christ, and the simple, accessible gospel: belief in the heart and confession with the mouth that Jesus is Lord leads to salvation (Romans 10:9-13). Paul explains why many Jews rejected this message, not due to a lack of hearing, but defiance and disobedience.

The class emphasized the chain of salvation: faith comes from hearing the word about Christ, which requires preachers (messengers) who are sent. Everyone who calls on the Lord will be saved, but this demands sharing the gospel personally, through conversations, invitations, and tools like tracts or pamphlets. Paul affirms God has not rejected Israel; a remnant is saved by grace, not works, as illustrated by Elijah's era, where 7,000 faithful remained despite widespread rebellion.

The lesson powerfully contrasts grace (God's free, unmerited gift) with works-based righteousness, warning that mixing them nullifies grace. Israel's hardening results from willful rejection, yet God extends His hands persistently. The call is urgent: Christians must evangelize their circles of influence, as God uses ordinary believers to spread the good news.