We grow by the gospel Romans 1:8 First, I thank my God through Jesus Christ for all of you, because your faith is being reported all over the world. NIV Paul opens this section of the letter by indicating that he is thankful to God for the Romans. “First” is not used as in numbering here but to indicate importance. Before the believers at Rome can know anything, they must be aware that Paul is thankful to God for them. This not only prepares them to hear what Paul is about to say, but it also encourages them in their…