Romans 1 speaks of not being ashamed of the gospel as it is the power of God unto salvation. We must not be ashamed of the preaching of the gospel. How shall they hear without a preacher? We must not be ashamed of the cross of Christ. The world may call it too simple or not miraculous enough, but to the one being saved, it is eternal life. We must not be ashamed of the grace of the gospel. Our past sin, having been forgiven by God is shown as an example of the perfect patience toward those who will believe.