How Can They?

 

Scripture: Romans 10:14-15 (NIV)

How, then, can they call on the one they have not believed in? And how can they believe in the one of whom they have not heard? And how can they hear without someone preaching to them? And how can anyone preach unless they are sent? As it is written: “How beautiful are the feet of those who bring good news!”

Devotion:

Romans 10:14–15 is Paul’s sweeping reminder that the gospel is never meant to sit still. It moves—from God’s heart to Christ’s work, from Christ’s work to the apostles’ witness, from their witness to the church’s proclamation, and from that proclamation into the ears and hearts of those who have never heard. The chain is intentional. The mission is relational. The calling is shared.

Paul’s questions are rhetorical, yet they strike with force. No one can call on Christ without believing. No one can believe without hearing. No one can hear without someone speaking. And no one speaks unless they are sent.

In other words, God has chosen ordinary people—people like us—to carry extraordinary news. The gospel could have been written in the sky or delivered by angels, but instead God entrusts it to human voices, conversations, and relationships. The good news moves at the speed of obedience.

When Paul says the feet of those who bring good news are “beautiful,” he is not referring to appearance. He is referring to purpose. Feet become beautiful when they carry hope. Steps become sacred when they move toward someone in need of grace.

Your feet may step into a church meeting, a hospital room, a neighbor’s driveway, a grocery aisle, or a family gathering. Wherever they go, they can carry the fragrance of Christ. You don’t need a pulpit to preach. You need a willing heart, a listening ear, and the courage to speak when God opens a door.

Every believer is sent. Some are sent across oceans; most are sent across the street. Some preach with sermons; most preach with conversations, kindness, prayers, and steady faithfulness.

In seasons of transition—whether in your congregation, your community, or your own life—this passage reminds you that God’s mission does not pause. He continues to send His people, equip His church, and draw hearts to Himself.

Prayer:

            Lord, help us take our place in the mission to bring Jesus to the world. May we each, in our own way, bring the good news to the people around us. May we always seek to reach out to those who need us, rather than rely on “professional ministers” to do all the work. In Jesus name, Amen.