Lesson Theme The Just Shall Live by Faith

Scripture Basic: Romans 1:1-17, 15:14-16:27

Focal: Romans 1:1, 7-17

Outline:

I. Introduction (1:1-17)

A. Apostolic Salutation (1:1-7)

1. Writer: Paul (1:1) 2. Description of the gospel (1:2-6) 3. Readers: Roman believers (1:7)

B. Paul's Interest in the Romans Explained (1:8-17)

1. Proof of his interest (1:8-10) 2. Reasons for his interest (1:11-17)

a. To impart spiritual gifts (1:11-12) b. To have spiritual fruit among them (1:13) c. To discharge his debt to mankind (1:14-15) d. Because of the greatness of his message (1:16-17)

IV. Epilogue (15:14-16:27)

A. Explanation of the tone of Parts of the Epistle (15:14-21)

B. Explanation of Paul's Future Plans (15:22-33) C. Personal Greetings and Admonitions (16:1-24) D. Concluding Doxology (16:25-27)

Applications: 1. Paul's 100% commitment to Jesus Christ and His gospel. Does God expect any less of us today? (Cf. v.1 - "aphoridzo"). 2. The divine-human nature of Christ as central to the gospel (even though "inscrutable"). 3. The pivotal importance of the resurrection of Christ (cf. April 15 lesson). 4. "The just shall live by faith", i.e. acceptance of a person by God is based on personal faith in Christ's atonement - not on his good behavior.