The title for this series is our church mission statement; Our Mission is to Learn, Live and Share the Good News of Jesus. There is no better NT document to turn to than Romans to learn what this good news is, how this good news transforms the way we live, and why this good news creates in us a sense of urgency to share it....

This passage, Paul addresses issue that the believer’s relationship with sin in light of God's grace. Since God's grace abounds even where sin abounds (as stated in Romans 5:20), the question arises—should we continue sinning so that grace may increase? Paul answers with an emphatic “By no means!” and proceeds to explain the transformation that occurs in a believer's life once they are united wit...

This passage continues the contrast between the consequences of Adam's disobedience and the gift of righteousness through Christ's obedience. Both sin and grace have far-reaching effects: Adam's one act of disobedience brought death and condemnation to all, while Jesus' one act of righteousness brings justification and life. 18 Therefore, as one trespass led to condemnation for all men, so one ac...

Adam’s disobedience brought sin and death into the world, affecting all people, while Christ’s obedience and sacrifice brought grace, justification, and life. Through this comparison, Paul emphasizes the overwhelming grace of God and the abundance of the gift of salvation.  12 Therefore, just as sin came into the world through one man, and death through sin, and so death spread to all men because ...

In this passage, Paul highlights the profound nature of God’s love and the certainty of our salvation through Christ’s death and resurrection. He points out that we were utterly powerless and undeserving, yet God took the initiative to send Jesus to die for us. Paul then reinforces the assurance of our salvation: if God went to such great lengths for us when we were still His enemies,  we can be e...

In this passage, Paul expands on the blessings that flow from being justified by faith. Through faith, we receive peace with God, access to grace, hope in the glory of God, and even the ability to rejoice in suffering. Paul’s teaching emphasizes the deep assurance and joy that comes from our new standing before God, made possible by Jesus Christ.  1 Therefore, since we have been justified by faith...

this passage, Paul continues to expound on the nature of Abraham’s faith and its relevance to the believer. Abraham’s faith in God’s promise, despite overwhelming circumstances, serves as a model for all believers. The same faith that was credited to Abraham as righteousness is now credited to us through faith in Jesus Christ, who was delivered for our sins and raised for our justification.  18 In...

Paul continues his argument that justification comes by faith and not by the works of the law, using Abraham as a model of faith. He explains that righteousness was credited to Abraham before he was circumcised, making him the father of all who believe—both Jews and Gentiles. Paul further explains that the promises made to Abraham were not given through the law but through the righteousness that c...

In this passage, Paul continues to build on the theme of justification by faith by using Abraham, the forefather of the Jewish people, as an example. He argues that Abraham was not justified by works, but by faith, and that this principle of faith-based righteousness applies to all people. Paul also draws on David’s words to underscore the blessedness of receiving forgiveness and righteousness apa...

In Romans 3:21-31, Paul explains how God's righteousness is revealed and how it relates to the law. He emphasizes that righteousness comes through faith in Jesus Christ and is available to all people, regardless of their background or works. This is a foundational passage for understanding the gospel and the role of the law in salvation.  21 But now the righteousness of God has been manifested apa...

Paul concludes that both Jews and Gentiles are under the power of sin, and no one is righteous on their own. The law reveals sin but cannot save from it. This sets the stage for Paul’s introduction of justification by faith. 9 What then? Are we Jews any better off? No, not at all. For we have already charged that all, both Jews and Greeks, are under sin, 10 as it is written:“None is righteous, no,...

In Romans 3:1-8, Paul explores the significance of the Jewish people and their unique relationship with God's Law. He emphasizes that they were given the revelations of God, which is a privilege. Despite some Jews being unfaithful, God's faithfulness remains constant. Paul argues that human sinfulness actually showcases God's righteousness, but this does not give anyone a license to sin. He warns ...

In this passage, Paul describes the consequences of humanity's rejection of God. Because people chose to worship created things rather than the Creator, God "gave them up" to their sinful desires. This led to moral and social degradation, with behaviors that dishonored their bodies and indulged in unnatural passions. The text lists specific sins such as greed, envy, murder, deceit, and malice, sho...

Paul shifts focus to those who might feel morally superior—especially Jewish believers—who are tempted to judge Gentiles for their sinful behaviors. Paul makes it clear that all are subject to God’s judgment. Both Jews and Gentiles are guilty of sin and hypocrisy, as even those who have God’s law (the Jews) are not exempt from judgment. God’s justice is based on truth, and He will judge everyone a...

In this passage, Paul describes the consequences of humanity's rejection of God. Because people chose to worship created things rather than the Creator, God "gave them up" to their sinful desires. This led to moral and social degradation, with behaviors that dishonored their bodies and indulged in unnatural passions. The text lists specific sins such as greed, envy, murder, deceit, and malice, sho...

There are two arguments made to suggest that the words of Paul, inspired by the Holy Spirit, do not condemn homosexual behavior per se, but only certain types of same sex conduct. Although these arguments are very weak, they warrant a response because many people are being deceived by them.Before I address these two common myths it is important to issue a warning against a mistake that has been ma...

Romans 1:18-23 provides a profound insight into the nature of human sin and the response of God’s wrath.  18 For the wrath of God is revealed from heaven against all ungodliness and unrighteousness of men, who by their unrighteousness suppress the truth. 19 For what can be known about God is plain to them, because God has shown it to them. 20 For his invisible attributes, namely, his eternal power...

Romans 1:17 is a pivotal verse in Christian theology, encapsulating the doctrine of justification by faith. The verse reads in ESV version, “The righteous shall live by faith,” but its translation can vary significantly among different versions of the Bible.  English Standard Version (ESV): "The righteous shall live by faith." - A footnote indicates that it can also be translated as "the one who b...

Paul expresses gratitude for the faith of the Roman believers, declares his desire to visit them, and emphasizes that the gospel is the power of God for salvation to everyone who believes, both Jew and Gentile. 8 First, I thank my God through Jesus Christ for all of you, because your faith is proclaimed in all the world. 9 For God is my witness, whom I serve with my spirit in the gospel of his So...

In Romans 1:1-7, Paul establishes the foundation of his mission, the identity of Jesus, and the purpose of the gospel. 1 This letter is from Paul, a slave of Christ Jesus, chosen by God to be an apostle and sent out to preach his Good News. 2 God promised this Good News long ago through his prophets in the holy Scriptures. 3 The Good News is about his Son. In his earthly life he was born into King...

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.  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 ...