The focus of the relationships Paul lists isn't about the people in those relationships, but about Jesus who makes those relationships possible.

Paul gives some clear directions for men and women of God, but when not heard properly they can be a bit disheartening.

Paul reminds us that we are one in Christ. So why divide what Christ has united?

The mystery will soon be revealed. What could it be? I'll give you a hint. It's about Jesus, Israel and the world.

Paul describes the power of the gospel. The message of the gospel is the truth of Jesus' death and resurrection. But what good did it do? Why did it happen? What difference did it make?

Paul writes this letter to the followers of Jesus in Ephesus. They are strong in their belief but Paul still wants to encourage them and warn them of things going on in the world.

Paul wraps up this letter to the followers of Jesus at Rome with an encouragement to stay unified on the things of Christ and distance themselves from those who seek to divide for personal gain.

Paul here reminds us that our proper focus in life is to put Jesus at the center. He should be our primary focus. Then we look to the needs of others. Finally, we pursue our own ambitions and happiness. Jesus, Others, Yourself it's pretty easy when our heart is in the right place.

We love to divide over things that really are not worth dividing over don't we? I mean what we eat, what we wear, where we go, what car we drive. We let these things cause division and animosity between friends. There's a better alternative and Paul explains it here.

Paul clearly says that we're to obey those in authority over us. That means that government officials are to be obeyed. But what happens when the government goes a little off the rails? What happens to betraying conscience? Paul is very clear in what he says. Yet even more clear in what he does elsewhere.