Who Are You?

Romans 1:1-6

Introduction of the topic: "Who are you?" – spiritual identity

Defining Spiritual Identity

• Comparison of external identity markers (possessions, names, roles) vs. true spiritual identity

Question of Identity

• Exploring the deeper question of spiritual identity beyond roles and goals
• Example of Raymond Power's loss of identity

Importance of Spiritual Identity

• How spiritual identity influences life and function
• Conflicts in theological and practical understanding of spiritual identity

Resolution of Identity Conflicts

• Story of seeing a T-shirt in Hong Kong that humorously addresses the philosophical debate of being vs. doing.

Reconfiguring Spiritual Identity

• Expanding spiritual identity to include ministry identity
• Romans 1:1-6

Analysis of Romans 1:1-6

• Paul’s Self-Introduction in Romans
  • Paul's use of the term "bond-servant" and its significance
  • Vocabulary of submission, summons, and selection
• Example of King Abdullah of Jordan
  • Illustrating submission and summons with a real-life example
• Practical Application
  • Leadership and servanthood
  • Example from Dr. Richard’s personal life about understanding true identity

Why Paul Exists

• Paul's Purpose in Romans
  • The dual role of proclaiming the gospel and achieving God’s global goal
  • Examination of the gospel's scope and Paul's mission
• Challenges in Ministry
  • Balancing personal convictions and external constraints
  • Example from a speaking engagement in Mumbai

Conclusion

• Practical Suggestions
  • Encouragement to develop a eulogy or epitaph that includes service for Christ
  • Dr. Richard’s own epitaph as an example
• Final Charge
  • Encouragement to integrate ministry identity with spiritual identity
  • Living out one's true identity in Christ

*The above summary is AI-generated, so discrepancies may exist. Please refer to the audio or video file to verify accuracy.