Introduction to Romans

In his letter to the Roman church, Paul lays out his argument for unifying Jews and non-Jews in Christ—and in the process, instructs his readers on how to restore their relationship with God. As Paul explains, we only find unity with God and with one another through God’s Son, Jesus. Christ represents the fulfillment of God’s covenant promises, going all the way back to Abraham. Paul proclaims that Christ is the very righteousness of God and the means for us sinners to become righteous—to be saved.

Background

The book of Romans dates to the end of Paul’s third missionary journey; he most likely wrote this letter from the Greek city of Corinth in the mid-50s ad (Acts 19:21; 20:3). Gaius, whom Paul mentions is his host (Rom 16:23), is likely the same Gaius mentioned as a resident of Corinth in another of Paul’s letters (1 Cor 1:14).

Paul had not met the Christians at Rome (Rom 1:13), but the circumstances he mentions in the letter provide clues about his reasons for writing. Paul wanted to take the gospel to Spain, and he thought that Rome might make a good launching point for a westward mission (15:22–24)—much like Antioch had been his home base in the east. In addition, Paul deeply desired to promote unity between believers in Jesus who were Jewish and those who were not Jewish (called “Gentiles” or “Greeks”; see, for example, 1:16). The Roman church probably was a mix of Jews and Gentiles. Paul wanted to communicate to these Christians that the gospel includes everyone.

Structure

Romans is structured as an ancient letter, with an opening (1:1–17), a body (1:18–15:13), and a closing (15:14–16:27). The two main parts of the letter’s body include a section focusing on what God has done in Christ (1:18–11:36) and a section instructing Christians how to live the truths set forth in the first part (12:1–15:13).

In the first section, Paul’s discussion focuses on four major points. First, everyone—including Jews and Gentiles—is under God’s judgment (1:18–3:20). Second, Christ has become the living revelation of God’s righteousness, so that everyone who believes—both Jews and Gentiles—can be made right and brought into God’s family (3:21–5:21). Third, God’s righteousness gives us hope in our battle against sin (6:1–8:39). Finally, despite many Jews’ rejection of Christ, the people of Israel nevertheless have a role to play in God’s redemption of the world (9:1–11:36).

In the section on Christian ethics, Paul aims to help the Roman believers put their faith into practice, particularly when it comes to living together as the diverse yet unified Church (12:1–15:13). For Paul, Christians ought to have their entire lives—in terms of both belief and action—centered first and foremost on Christ. The good news of Jesus’ saving act is meant to be transformative, and this good news should be unapologetically proclaimed.

Outline

• The gospel and God’s righteous judgment (1:1–3:20)

• The gift of God’s righteousness (3:21–5:21)

• The power of God’s righteousness (6:1–8:39)

• God’s righteousness toward Israel (9:1–11:36)

• Righteousness in relationships (12:1–15:13)

• Paul’s ministry and personal greetings (15:14–16:27)

Themes

Romans’ major themes—righteousness and salvation—ring forth most clearly in Romans 1:16–17, Paul’s declaration of the power of the gospel. Here, Paul proclaims that the good news of Jesus opens God’s salvation to Jews and Gentiles alike. Further, this salvation fulfills the Old Testament promises God made to the people of Israel—showing God’s faithfulness to His covenant. Paul shows us that in Jesus we clearly see God’s power to save all who believe. In Christ, our righteous God unites Jews and Gentiles alike into one people of God. All cultures, races, and people can come to God for salvation. Christ’s righteousness is enough for any and all of us to be saved.

Paul explains that all have all sinned and face the consequence of death (3:23; 5:12; 6:23). But God has provided the salvation we need through the death and resurrection of His Son (6:5–11; 8:1–4), and nothing can separate us from His love (8:38–39). Despite our wrongdoings against God and other people, Jesus saves each of us who believe. While our sin previously stood in the way, Jesus makes a way for us to have a relationship with God again. Jesus makes a way for us to be unified in His name. We are empowered to collectively and boldly proclaim—and live—the good news of Jesus.

Further Reading

The Law in Paul’s Letters

Paul the Apostle CLBD