Book of Romans

Introduction to Romans

The Epistle to the Romans stands as the most comprehensive and systematic presentation of Christian doctrine in all of Scripture. Written by the Apostle Paul to the church in Rome around 57 AD, this powerful letter explores the great themes of sin, salvation, grace, faith, righteousness, and sanctification.

Unlike many of Paul's other letters, Romans was written to a church that Paul had not yet visited, making it a more formal and complete exposition of his understanding of the gospel. The letter's careful theological arguments and practical applications have made it foundational for Christian theology throughout church history.

Historical Context

The city of Rome was the capital of the Roman Empire, the most powerful political entity of the ancient world. By the time Paul wrote his letter (around 57 AD), Rome had a significant Jewish population and a growing Christian community. The church in Rome was likely established by Jewish Christians who had been present at Pentecost (Acts 2) and returned to Rome with their new faith.

In 49 AD, Emperor Claudius had expelled all Jews from Rome due to disturbances allegedly caused by conflicts over "Chrestus" (possibly referring to disputes about Jesus as the Christ). When Claudius died in 54 AD, many Jews, including Jewish Christians, returned to Rome. This created a unique dynamic in the Roman church between Jewish and Gentile believers.

Paul wrote Romans while in Corinth, near the end of his third missionary journey. He was planning to visit Rome on his way to Spain after delivering a collection for the poor in Jerusalem. This letter served as an introduction of Paul and his teaching to the Roman Christians before his anticipated visit.

Archaeological Evidence

Archaeological discoveries have illuminated much about the context in which Romans was written. The city of Rome itself has yielded numerous artifacts from the 1st century AD that help scholars understand the daily life, social structures, and religious practices of Paul's audience.

Some notable archaeological findings related to the Book of Romans include:

• The Erastus Inscription - In Corinth, where Paul wrote Romans, an inscription mentions an Erastus who was the city treasurer. This may be the same Erastus mentioned in Romans 16:23.
• Roman Catacombs - The early Christian burial sites in Rome contain numerous inscriptions and artwork that reflect the theology expressed in Romans.
• The Arch of Titus - Built in 82 AD, it depicts the spoils from the Jerusalem Temple being carried into Rome, illustrating the tension between Jews and Romans referenced in the letter.
• The Alexamenos Graffito - A 1st-2nd century graffiti mockingly depicting a Christian worshipping a crucified figure with a donkey's head, showing the ridicule early Christians faced.

Key Themes in Romans

Romans contains several major theological themes that have profoundly influenced Christian thought:

• Universal Sinfulness - Paul establishes that all people, both Jews and Gentiles, are under sin's power and fall short of God's glory (Romans 3:23).
• Justification by Faith - The central theme of Romans is that righteousness comes through faith in Jesus Christ, not by works of the law (Romans 3:28, 5:1).
• Grace vs. Law - Paul extensively explores the relationship between God's grace and the Mosaic Law (Romans 6-7).
• The Role of Israel - Chapters 9-11 address God's faithfulness to His covenant with Israel and how Gentiles fit into God's redemptive plan.
• Christian Living - The letter concludes with practical instructions for living out faith in community (Romans 12-16).

Influence Through History

Few biblical books have had the theological impact of Romans. Throughout church history, its teachings have sparked renewal, reformation, and revival. Some notable examples include:

• Augustine's Conversion (386 AD) - After hearing a child say "take up and read," Augustine read Romans 13:13-14, which led to his conversion.
• The Protestant Reformation (16th century) - Martin Luther's understanding of Romans, particularly the doctrine of justification by faith, became the theological cornerstone of the Reformation.
• John Wesley's Conversion (1738) - Wesley's heart was "strangely warmed" while listening to a reading of Luther's preface to Romans, leading to the Methodist movement.
• Karl Barth's Commentary (1919) - Barth's landmark commentary on Romans revolutionized 20th-century theology and sparked the neo-orthodox movement.
• Civil Rights Movement (20th century) - Martin Luther King Jr. frequently cited Romans' teachings on love and justice in his advocacy for civil rights.

Key Figures in Romans

Apostle Paul

Author

The primary author of the letter, formerly Saul of Tarsus, who was converted on the road to Damascus. A Roman citizen and highly educated Jewish Pharisee who became the "apostle to the Gentiles."

Tertius

Scribe

The actual writer who penned the letter as Paul dictated it (Romans 16:22). His inclusion in the greetings gives a glimpse into the collaborative nature of Paul's ministry.

Phoebe

Letter Carrier

A deacon of the church in Cenchreae who likely delivered the letter to Rome. Paul commends her to the Roman church and requests they assist her (Romans 16:1-2).

Famous Quotes & Scholarly Perspectives

Structure of Romans

The letter to the Romans follows a carefully constructed logical argument, moving from the universal problem of sin to God's solution in Christ and the practical implications for Christian living.

• Introduction and Theme (1:1-17) - Paul introduces himself and announces the theme of the letter: the gospel as God's power for salvation to everyone who believes.
• The Universal Need for Salvation (1:18-3:20) - Paul demonstrates that all people, both Gentiles and Jews, are under sin's power and face God's righteous judgment.
• Justification by Faith (3:21-5:21) - God's righteousness is revealed through faith in Jesus Christ, apart from the law, providing reconciliation with God.
• Sanctification: Freedom from Sin's Dominion (6:1-8:39) - Believers are freed from sin's power and the law's condemnation, enabled to live by the Spirit.
• God's Faithfulness to Israel (9:1-11:36) - Paul addresses the question of Israel's unbelief and affirms God's faithfulness to His covenant promises.
• Practical Exhortations (12:1-15:13) - Instructions for living out faith in community, government, and interpersonal relationships.
• Conclusion and Greetings (15:14-16:27) - Paul discusses his plans, sends greetings, and closes with a doxology.

Resources for Further Study