Romans 16:25 Now to him who is able to strengthen you according to my gospel and the preaching of Jesus Christ, according to the revelation of the mystery that was kept secret for long ages
Paul ends the letter with a benediction prayer. Most of his letters end with some statement like this. This ending includes some of the key topics that he covered in the letter. First, we can have the assurance that God will strengthen us through the good news of new life in Jesus Christ. Paul’s message is one of hope, peace, love, and power over sin. He started the letter by referring to the gospel of righteousness (1:16-17). The gospel can remake us into righteous people through Jesus’ death and resurrection, and enable us through the Holy Spirit to live righteously. This “good news” is exactly what ever human being needs to hear and experience. The gospel overcomes the power and penalty of sin. Jesus is the only hope for victory over the pull of the flesh and dominating power of our sinful nature. The promise of the gospel is that God can and will make us holy by trusting ourselves into his care. Total commitment.
It is a matter of sovereignty: who or what will control our lives. God through the Holy Spirit gives us the victory. The key to all of this is the “mystery kept hidden for a long time.” The mystery is Christ in us and we in Christ. This is the deep communion that comes only when we place ourselves before Christ on the altar as living sacrifices. This mystery was hidden but was God’s plan since before creation. This is God’s purposes for humanity. It is why we have been created. It is the only way to have the peace that every human so desperately longs for and searches. This mystery was revealed at just the right point in history.
Through this letter, Paul has provided the Roman Christians and those who have read this letter throughout the centuries a concise overview of the meaning of eternal life in Jesus Christ. This life begins now, in this lifetime. It sustains us through the suffering we may face. It overcomes racial, gender, cultural, and economic barriers. It answers the deep human problems of rebellion and pride. It is offered freely to both Jews and Gentiles. The foundation for this message was laid in the Old Testament. It contains the very power of the eternal Creator of all. We can experience this new life in Christ because of God’s grace. The response it demands from us is the obedience of faith.
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