0. Background: The Social and Cultural Context in Romans

September 9th, 2024
by Jongseung Park

The social and cultural context in which Paul wrote the Book of Romans around A.D. 57 is complex, shaped by both the Roman Empire and the early Christian movement. Understanding this context helps to clarify many of the themes Paul addresses.

1. Roman Empire and Roman Society:

Dominance of the Roman Empire: Rome was the political and cultural center of the powerful Roman Empire, which spanned much of Europe, North Africa, and the Middle East. Roman society was highly hierarchical, with clear distinctions between classes: from the emperor and wealthy elites to slaves and the poor.

Cultural Diversity: Rome was a melting pot of cultures, languages, and religions. Jews, Greeks, and Romans coexisted, but this diversity also led to tensions, especially regarding religious practices and social customs.

Paganism and Emperor Worship: Roman religion was polytheistic, and emperor worship was common. The Roman emperor was seen as semi-divine, and loyalty to him was expected. This created tension with Christians, who declared allegiance to Jesus as Lord.

2. Jewish and Christian Relations:

The Jewish Diaspora: Many Jews lived in Rome, forming part of the larger Jewish Diaspora. They held on to their religious practices and identity, but they were often seen as outsiders by the Roman population due to their monotheism and distinct customs.

Tension Within the Early Church: The early Christian community in Rome was made up of both Jewish and Gentile (non-Jewish) believers. There were tensions between these two groups, especially around the role of the Jewish law. Some Jewish Christians still observed the Mosaic law, while Gentile Christians did not, creating divisions over issues like circumcision, food laws, and Sabbath observance.

3. Historical Events:

Claudius’ Expulsion of Jews from Rome (A.D. 49): Emperor Claudius had expelled Jews from Rome, likely because of disturbances related to disagreements about "Chrestus," likely a reference to Christ. Many Jewish Christians, along with other Jews, had to leave Rome. When they were allowed back after Claudius’ death, they returned to a largely Gentile Christian community, further exacerbating tensions between Jewish and Gentile Christians.

Nero’s Reign (A.D. 54-68): Nero was emperor when Paul wrote Romans. While early in his reign Nero was somewhat tolerant of Christians, persecution against Christians would later intensify under his rule, culminating in the infamous persecution following the great fire of Rome in A.D. 64.

4. Paul’s Audience in Rome:

Mixed Church of Jews and Gentiles: The Roman church was diverse, composed of both Jewish and Gentile believers. Paul writes to address the tensions and divisions between them, particularly about the role of the Jewish law and the inclusion of Gentiles in God’s plan of salvation.

Spiritual Climate: Early Christians in Rome were a minority group, living in a city saturated with pagan practices and moral corruption. Their beliefs about Jesus as the risen Lord and Savior ran counter to the prevailing Roman culture. They would have faced social and possibly political pressure to conform to Roman religious practices, which could include emperor worship.

5. Paul’s Purpose in Writing:

Paul wrote the letter to the Romans in a context of cultural diversity, social hierarchy, religious pluralism, and growing tensions between Jews and Gentiles, both within the church and in society. His goal was to unify the Roman Christians, clarify the gospel, and demonstrate that God’s salvation plan was for all people, regardless of their background.

Posted in Book of Romans