What if the biggest barrier to unity isn’t doctrine but our need to win? Walking through Romans 15, we explore why the cross frees us to receive one another, how the Old Testament fuels New Testament hope, and what it looks like when Jews and Gentiles rejoice with one voice. Pastor Carl paints a vivid picture of a church that chooses people over preferences and mission over minor victories, anchored by the God of patience and encouragement who makes us like-minded in Christ.

We dig into the heart-level shift that happens when reproach falls on Jesus and not on us: guilt and shame lose their grip, and hope, joy, and peace take root through believing. That inner freedom translates into outward love. We talk about generosity as worship, as Gentile churches support Jerusalem, and about practical restraint that refuses to trip a brother for the sake of flaunting liberty. Unity becomes credible when it costs us something—and it becomes compelling when it sings the same gospel in many voices.

Paul’s calling to pioneer new ground comes alive here. He refuses to boast in what Christ did not do through him, relying on the Spirit’s power rather than polish or pressure. From Jerusalem to Illyricum and onward to Spain, the pattern is clear: God works, we participate, and the pressure is off. We share Paul’s plans to visit Rome, his request for prayer amid real danger, and a blessing that lands with weight: may the God of hope fill you with joy and peace so you abound in hope by the Holy Spirit. 

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Come On Up is the radio ministry of The Mountain Cross in Waynesville North Carolina. To learn more about us please visit: TheMountainCross.com.