Introduction to Romans - Agape

Nature of the Letters

There are some things we should know as we study the NT letters:

Concrete, not abstract - the letters were generally written to address specific questions, situations, or concerns of individual churches that existed at an actual point in time, not as theological essays to explain everything about salvation.

However, as scripture, we (the church) believe that these letters that spoke to specific situations also provide timeless wisdom and knowledge that is fruitful for all Christians in all times.

Seeing the letters as TOO literally directed at us can lead to foolish conclusions, like the idea that Christians should make a pilgrimage carrying a cloak from Troas to Rome (2 Timothy 4:13)

However, seeing the letters as TOO situational will cause us to miss out on the rich instruction on

Some tips for letters

Learn as much about the historical context as possible.

Read the entire letter (literary context). Outlines are helpful!

Consider the full witness of Scripture. The letter will never contradict the other words of God.

Nature of Romans

Among Paul’s writings, Romans is unique for a couple of reasons.

Romans is the only one written to a church that Paul did not establish, Romans was written while Paul was in Corinth after his third missionary journey, before he had ever been to Rome.

As such, Romans is the least “situational” letter and the closest thing to a full theological treatise in the letters.

One of the main themes of Romans is the justification through Christ’s sacrifice, what it means and how it is applied.

Romans 1

Greeting - Romans 1:1-7

Paul’s intention to travel to Rome - Romans 1:8-15

In this section, what does the phrase “spiritual gifts” seem to mean?

THESIS STATEMENT - Romans 1:16-17

Paul shows confidence in the Gospel that he preaches, because of the power of God who has written the story.

Also discusses the scope of the Gospel, to all who believe, the Jew and the Greek (Gentile, non-jew)

The Gospel is intwined with faith

God’s Righteousness, and wrath on the unrighteous - Romans 1:18-32

We know that Paul is referring to Gentiles in this section, because he talks about how they deny God through natural revelation, not the Abrahamic revelation (Romans 1:19-21)

How might we exchange truth for a lie, and worship the creature rather than the Creator? (Romans 1:25)

What about those who “give approval to those who practice them”? (Romans 1:32)