Introduction to Romans

Introduction In this lesson, we consider the contrast between the Gospel of Christ and the Law of Moses as seen in Romans.

Establishment of the Church at Rome While Paul was eager to preach the gospel at Rome, he had not established the church in that location (Rom. 1:15). Men from Rome were present on Pentecost when the church was established (Acts 2:10). Some of these individuals probably became Christians and brought the gospel message to Rome when they returned home (Acts 2:37-40, 46-47; 8:4).

Establishment of the Church at Rome When Paul came to Corinth, he stayed with Aquila and Priscilla, two disciples who had recently come from Rome (Acts 18:1-4). Paul mentioned Prisca and Aquila in the salutations at the conclusion of the Roman epistle, indicating that they had returned to the imperial city (Rom. 16:3-5).

Establishment of the Church at Rome When Paul writes to the Romans, he knows a great many brethren (Rom. 16:1ff). When Paul arrived in Rome, he encountered many Christians (Acts 28:11ff).

Theme The theme is outlined in Romans 1:16-17, which says, "For I am not ashamed of the gospel, for it is the power of God for salvation to everyone who believes, to the Jew first and also to the Greek. For in it the righteousness of God is revealed from faith to faith; as it is written, “But the righteous man shall live by faith.” (NASB).

Mankind Needs a Savior The Gentiles stand condemned because of unbelief (Rom. 1) The Jews stand condemned because of hypocrisy (Rom. 2). All have sinned and come short of the glory of God (Rom. 3)

The Basis of Justification We are justified, not on the basis of works, but through faith in God. Consider the examples of Abraham (Rom. 4:1-4) and David (Rom. 4:5-8). Abraham's faith was credited as righteousness while he was uncircumcised (Rom. 4:9-12). The promise to Abraham predated the Law (Rom. 4:13-25).

The Results of Justification Having been justified by faith, we have peace with God (Rom. 5:1-5) We enjoy reconciliation through the blood of Jesus (Rom. 5:6-11). Through his disobedience, Adam brought sin and death into the world; however, through His obedience, Jesus Christ brings the promise of life (Rom. 5:12-21).

Questions What About Sin? What About the Law? What About Israel?

What About Sin? Through obedience to the Lord's will, believers die to sin and are made alive unto God (Rom. 6:1- 11). Therefore, we must no longer allow sin to reign in our mortal bodies (Rom. 6:12-14). Instead of continuing as slaves to sin, let us become servants of righteousness (Rom. 6:15-23).

What About the Law? Believers not only die to sin but must also die to the Law (Rom. 7:1-6). As a noble ideal, the law is holy, righteous and good (Rom. 7:7-12). In reality, the law identifies boundaries that man seeks to violate(Rom. 7:13-20).

What About the Law? Despite our best intentions, we are wretched sinners, caged, conflicted, and condemned (Rom. 7:21-25). There is no condemnation for those who are in Christ Jesus, who walk—not according to the flesh—but according to the Spirit (Rom. 8:1-17).

Blessings of Belief Believers will experience the promise of eternal glory (Rom. 8:18-25). We share in God's present help (Rom. 8:26-27). We share in God's eternal purpose (Rom. 8:28-30). We share in Christ's present and future victory (Rom. 8:31-39).

What About Israel? Paul's expressed great love for his kinsmen (Rom. 9:1-5). God's word has not failed: Not all Israel are from Israel (Rom. 9:6-13). God's justice has not failed: He shows mercy on whom He desires and hardens whom He desires (Rom. 9:14-18).

What About Israel? If God is sovereign, why does He still find fault (Rom. 9:19-26)? God's promises involve a remnant (Rom. 9:27-29). God's promises include the Gentiles (Rom. 9:30- 33).

What About Israel? Christ is the end of the Law for those who believe (Rom. 10:1-4). Christ is the focal point of saving faith (Rom. 10:5-15). Faith comes by hearing the word of Christ, but not all evidence a receptive spirit (Rom. 10:16- 21).

What About Israel? Has God rejected His people? NO! There remains a remnant according to God's gracious choice (Rom. 11:1-6). Many were rebellious and fell (Rom. 11:7-10); yet, the failure of Israel resulted in the gospel being preached to the Gentiles (Rom. 11:11-16). Gentiles! Take heed and do not make the same mistakes (Rom. 11:17-24)! Jews and Gentiles are saved on the same basis: obedient faith (Rom. 11:25-36).

Practical Application We must faithfully serve God and one another (Rom. 12). We must faithfully serve civil government (Rom. 13). We must faithfully serve our weak brethren (Rom. 14-15:13).

Closing Comments Paul's Plans (Rom. 15:14-33). Paul's Greetings (Rom. 16:1-16). Paul's Warning (Rom. 16:17-20). Paul's Salutation (Rom. 16:21-26).

Conclusion Let us recognize the all-sufficiency of the gospel message. Let us rejoice in God's grace and love. Let us rightly divide the word of truth and make proper application to our daily lives.