Purpose

To present a systematic explanation of the gospel and God's plan of salvation.

Author

Paul the Apostle, formerly Saul of Tarsus, a Pharisee who persecuted Christians until his dramatic conversion on the road to Damascus. As a Roman citizen and trained rabbi, he was uniquely qualified to write to Romans.

Historical Context

Written: 57 AD. Paul's most systematic presentation of Christian doctrine.

Significance

The most comprehensive explanation of salvation by grace through faith in the New Testament.

Key Themes

Justification by Faith, Sin, Salvation, Sanctification, God's Sovereignty

Interesting Facts

• Romans has been called 'the cathedral of Christian faith' - the most systematic theology in the Bible
• Martin Luther's study of Romans sparked the Protestant Reformation
• Augustine was converted while reading Romans 13:13-14

Prophecies

• Israel's future restoration (Romans 11:25-26) Fulfilled: Still future - Israel's national conversion (2000 years later)

Romans Chapter 1 serves as the introduction to the Apostle Paul's most comprehensive and systematic exposition of the Christian faith. In this chapter, Paul identifies himself as a servant of Christ and an apostle, emphasizing his mission to spread the gospel of God, which was foretold by the prophets. He introduces Jesus Christ, affirming His dual nature as a descendant of David and as the Son of God, whose resurrection marks a pivotal moment in salvation history. Paul expresses his deep gratitude for the Roman believers, whose faith has gained a reputation worldwide, and he longs to visit them to share spiritual gifts and mutual encouragement. This chapter highlights Paul's sense of obligation to preach the gospel to all people, regardless of their cultural background, illustrating the universal nature of Christ's message. The famous declaration that he is 'not ashamed of the gospel' encapsulates his confidence in its transformative power for salvation to everyone who believes, starting with the Jews and extending to the Gentiles. In verses 18-20, Paul shifts to the theme of God's wrath against ungodliness, asserting that God's existence and attributes are evident to humanity through creation, leaving them without excuse for their unrighteousness. This passage sets the stage for the arguments that will unfold in subsequent chapters about sin, grace, and redemption, establishing a foundational understanding of the human condition before God's righteousness is revealed.

Purpose

To present a systematic explanation of the gospel and God's plan of salvation.

Author

Paul the Apostle, formerly Saul of Tarsus, a Pharisee who persecuted Christians until his dramatic conversion on the road to Damascus. As a Roman citizen and trained rabbi, he was uniquely qualified to write to Romans.

Historical Context

Written: 57 AD. Paul's most systematic presentation of Christian doctrine.

Significance

The most comprehensive explanation of salvation by grace through faith in the New Testament.

Key Themes

Justification by Faith, Sin, Salvation, Sanctification, God's Sovereignty

Interesting Facts

• Romans has been called 'the cathedral of Christian faith' - the most systematic theology in the Bible
• Martin Luther's study of Romans sparked the Protestant Reformation
• Augustine was converted while reading Romans 13:13-14

Prophecies

• Israel's future restoration (Romans 11:25-26) Fulfilled: Still future - Israel's national conversion (2000 years later)

Romans Chapter 1 serves as the introduction to the Apostle Paul's most comprehensive and systematic exposition of the Christian faith. In this chapter, Paul identifies himself as a servant of Christ and an apostle, emphasizing his mission to spread the gospel of God, which was foretold by the prophets. He introduces Jesus Christ, affirming His dual nature as a descendant of David and as the Son of God, whose resurrection marks a pivotal moment in salvation history. Paul expresses his deep gratitude for the Roman believers, whose faith has gained a reputation worldwide, and he longs to visit them to share spiritual gifts and mutual encouragement. This chapter highlights Paul's sense of obligation to preach the gospel to all people, regardless of their cultural background, illustrating the universal nature of Christ's message. The famous declaration that he is 'not ashamed of the gospel' encapsulates his confidence in its transformative power for salvation to everyone who believes, starting with the Jews and extending to the Gentiles. In verses 18-20, Paul shifts to the theme of God's wrath against ungodliness, asserting that God's existence and attributes are evident to humanity through creation, leaving them without excuse for their unrighteousness. This passage sets the stage for the arguments that will unfold in subsequent chapters about sin, grace, and redemption, establishing a foundational understanding of the human condition before God's righteousness is revealed.