Introduction
to Romans
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Paul's letter to the Romans was probably written in Corinth near the end of Paul's
third missionary journey, in about A.D. 57 (Romans 15:22-29; Acts 19:21; 20:3,
16). The letter is addressed to the believers in Rome (Romans 1:7, 15), consisting
of both Jewish and Gentile (non-Jewish) Christians, though Gentile Christians
were greater in number.
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Paul's purposes for the letter include the following: 1) to prepare the recipients
for his planned visit to Rome, and his proposed mission to Spain (15:19-20, 24,
28); 2) to provide a summary and explanation of the gospel; 3) to explain the
relationship between Jews and Gentiles in God's plan of redemption; and 4) to
provide instruction to the believers in Rome regarding their particular needs
and problems. Called
to…
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Read Romans 1:1-7. In verse 1, Paul designates himself as follows: 1) a
servant of Christ Jesus; 2) called to be an apostle; and 3) set apart for the
gospel of God (see Acts 26:15-18). 1.
Paul is set apart for the gospel ["gospel" means] (good news). What
is the good news? What does Paul say about the gospel in verses 2-4?
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Paul's letter will expand on the great benefits received through the gospel of
Jesus Christ. In verse 5, Paul mentions "grace" (God's unmerited favor)
and his apostleship, through which many others (including Gentiles) are "called."
The believers in Rome are among the called. 2.
According to verses 5-7, what are Christians "called to?"
Reflection/Application
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Paul was called by God to be something and do something. Who (or what) is directing
who you are and what you do? What is the basis of purpose in your life?
*If
you are a true Christian, you are "called" as described in verses 5-7.
In what ways does your life show that you "belong to Christ" and are
"set apart" for God's purposes?
Longing to…
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Read Romans 1:8-17. Paul expresses his heart of prayer for the Romans,
and his great desire to visit them (1:8-10). Paul wants to go to Rome to 1) share
some spiritual gift to strengthen them; 2) be mutually encouraged; 3) see spiritual
fruit (new life and spiritual growth); and 4) to fulfill his sense of obligation
to preach the gospel to people all over the world. Reflection/Application
†
As a believer, what do you pray about? What are your "longings" (great
desires)? How do your prayers and longings relate to the gospel and God's purposes?
Not
Ashamed of …
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Read Romans 1:16-17. These verses are central to Paul's letter to the Romans.
Paul is "not ashamed of the gospel" (1:16a). Why is Paul not ashamed
of the gospel? Why is Paul "so eager to preach the gospel to everyone"
(1:15)? Because it is "the power of God for the salvation of everyone who
believes" (1:16b). 3.
What kind of "salvation" do you think Paul is talking about? __
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Paul also says, "For in the gospel a righteousness from God is revealed."
This "righteousness from God" results in a right relationship with God.
4. How can we receive this "righteousness from God?" Can we earn it
by our good behavior and/or religious activity? How is faith related to receiving
this righteousness? ___
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Paul quotes Habakkuk 2:4 - "the righteous will live by faith." (NIV,
NASB, ESV, KJV). Some scholars translate the phrase "the one who is righteous
by faith will live" (RSV, TEV, NLT). This is true. Life (abundant and everlasting)
comes through faith (Galatians 2:20). Reflection/Application
†
Maybe Paul's message is not "good news" to you because you don't think
you need it, or else you don't believe it is true. Anyway, continue in this study
of Romans so you will better understand the basis and content of the Christian
worldview and message.
†
As a Christian, do you ever feel or act ashamed of the gospel? If so, why? If
the gospel is really is the power of God for salvation, you should be eager to
proclaim it! Commit to study Romans with a humble heart, and ask God to transform
your thinking concerning the gospel, including its power for your daily life.
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