An Overview of the Book of Romans

Introduction The Book of Romans is one of the most profound books in the New Testament, and it is also arguably the most systematic presentation of Christian theology in the Bible. It was written by the apostle Paul to the Christians in Rome around 56-58 AD. The book, divided into 16 chapters, is fundamentally about the Gospel of Jesus Christ, outlining significant doctrines like sin, justification, sanctification, the role of Israel in God's plan, and the practical implications of the Gospel for believers. Summary Paul starts by explaining the universal sinfulness of humanity Romans 1:18-32, 3:23 and declares that no one can be justified or declared righteous by their own efforts Romans 3:20. “ For no person will be justified [freed of guilt and declared righteous] in His sight by [trying to do] the works of the Law…” We are justified by faith alone. In Romans 3:21-26, Paul writes, "But now the righteousness of God has been manifested apart from the law... the righteousness of God through faith in Jesus Christ for all who believe. For there is no distinction: for all have sinned and fall short of the glory of God, and are justified by his grace as a gift, through the redemption that is in Christ Jesus." Romans 6:1-2 states, "What shall we say then? Are we to continue in sin that grace may abound? By no means! How can we who died to sin still live in it?" Paul then addresses sanctification, is a process by which believers are set apart for God's service, or made holy, through the work of the Holy Spirit, and the believer's ongoing transformation into Christlike character. Romans 6:22 "But now since you have been set free from sin and have become [willing] slaves to God, you have your benefit, resulting in sanctification [being made holy and set apart for God’s purpose], and the outcome [of this] is eternal life." Romans Chapter 9: Paul expresses deep sorrow over the unbelief of many Jews, discussing the principle of God's sovereign choice and justice. He affirms that salvation is not about lineage but about God's mercy and promise. Romans Chapter 10: Paul laments that Israel, despite their zeal for God, sought their own righteousness instead of embracing God's righteousness through Christ. He underscores that salvation comes from confessing and believing in Jesus, which is accessible to all. "For there is no distinction between Jew and Greek; for the same Lord is Lord of all, bestowing his riches on all who call on him." Romans 10:12 Romans Chapter 11: Paul confirms God has not rejected His people, the Jews. He discusses how the Jews' stumbling allowed the Gentiles to be included in God's plan. Romans 11:11“But by their transgression [their rejection of the Messiah] salvation has come to the Gentiles, to make Israel jealous [when they realize what they have forfeited]” Yet, if the Jews abandon their disbelief, they will be grafted back in. He concludes by saying all Israel will ultimately be saved. Romans 11:23 "And even they [the unbelieving Jews], if they do not continue in their unbelief, will be grafted in; for God has the power to graft them in again." The final Chapters 12-16 outline the practical implications of these doctrines, stressing the importance of love and unity within the Christian community. "I appeal to you therefore, brothers, by the mercies of God, to present your bodies as a living sacrifice, holy and acceptable to God, which is your spiritual worship." Romans 12:1

Key Doctrines 1. Righteousness Through Faith Alone: This doctrine maintains that humans are made right in the sight of God through faith in Jesus Christ, not through individual deeds or efforts. Scripture: Romans 3:28 "For we hold that one is justified by faith apart from works of the law." Romans 3:24 " and are being justified [declared free of the guilt of sin, made acceptable to God, and granted eternal life] as a gift by His [precious, undeserved] grace, through the redemption [the payment for our sin] which is [provided] in Christ Jesus. 2. Humanity's Sinfulness and Need for Grace: Paul declares "for all have sinned and fall short of the glory of God, and are justified by his grace as a gift, through the redemption that is in Christ Jesus" Romans 3:23-24 3. The Process of Sanctification: Believers are not only justified through faith but also enter a process of spiritual growth and transformation, becoming more like Christ. This sanctification is also a work of God's grace, made possible by the work of the Holy Spirit dwelling within. Romans 6:22 See also .. 2 Corinthians 5:17 “Therefore if anyone is in Christ [that is, grafted in, joined to Him by faith in Him as Savior], he is a new creature [reborn and renewed by the Holy Spirit]; the old things [the previous moral and spiritual condition] have passed away. Behold, new things have come [because spiritual awakening brings a new life]." In John 17:17, Jesus prayed to the Father, saying "Sanctify them by the truth; your word is truth." In 1 Thessalonians 4:3, Paul writes, "It is God’s will that you should be sanctified." In 2 Timothy 2:21, the Bible says, "If a man therefore purge himself from these, he shall be a vessel unto honour, sanctified, and meet for the master's use, and prepared unto every good work." 4. Gospel Available to All, Jews and Gentiles Alike: Paul clarifies that God's plan of salvation extends to everyone, not just the Jews. Both Jews and Gentiles are granted salvation through faith. Scripture: "For there is no distinction between Jew and Greek; for the same Lord is Lord of all, bestowing his riches on all who call on him." Romans 10:12 5. Divine Life and Healing in Believers : This doctrine reveals that God's Spirit, who raised Jesus from the dead, resides in believers, giving life to their mortal bodies. Romans 8:11, "But if the Spirit of Him who raised up Jesus from the dead dwells in you, He who raised up Christ Jesus from the dead will also restore to life your mortal (short-lived, perishable) bodies through His Spirit who dwells in you." AMPC This verse shows the importance of the power of the Holy Spirit in the life of believers. The life giving Spirit of God who is able to heal our short-lived and perishable bodies. ie: keep us healthy. 6. The Importance of Love and Holiness in Christian Life: Paul calls on believers to express their faith through love, unity, and sanctified living. The transformation of a believer's life should reflect in their actions and interactions. Romans 12:9 "Let love be genuine. Abhor what is evil; hold fast to what is good." • Love: Romans 13:8-10 (AMPC) "Keep out of debt and owe no man anything, except to love one another; “ • Unity: Romans 15:5-6 (AMPC) • "Now may the God Who gives the power of patient endurance (steadfastness) and Who supplies encouragement, grant you to live in such mutual harmony and such full sympathy with one another, in accord with Christ Jesus, That together you may [unanimously] with united hearts and one voice, praise and glorify the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ (the Messiah)." • Sanctified Living: Romans 12:1-2 (AMPC) • "I appeal to you therefore, brethren, and beg of you in view of [all] the mercies of God, to make a decisive dedication of your bodies [presenting all your members and faculties] as a living sacrifice, holy (devoted, consecrated) and well pleasing to God, which is your reasonable (rational, intelligent) service and spiritual worship. Do not be conformed to this world (this age), [fashioned after and adapted to its external, superficial customs], but be transformed (changed) by the [entire] renewal of your mind [by its new ideals and its new attitude], so that you may prove [for yourselves] what is the good and acceptable and perfect will of God, even the thing which is good and acceptable and perfect [in His sight for you]."