Lesson 1—Introduction

The new fall Bible class series on Romans will begin on September 3, 2000, with an introductory lesson by Dr. Jimmy Allen of Harding University. He has been teaching college classes on Romans for more than 25 years. We will meet that week for a combined adult class in the auditorium. He will also preach at the morning worship assemblies.

Answers to some key questions for understanding

Who wrote Romans?

• Paul

Who was it written to?

• the saints in Rome

Where was it written?

• Corinth (see 16:1)

When was it written?

• about 56 AD, during the third missionary journey

What was the occasion of the letter?

• to prepare Christians in Rome for his coming

What was the purpose of the letter?

• a systematic presentation of the gospel
• facilitate a reconciliation of Jewish and Gentile Christians in Rome

Studying a New Testament letter

Like a letter we might write today, the letters of the New Testament were meant to be read in one sitting. Some time at the beginning of our study of Romans, try to read it all at once. Keep in mind its author, original recipients, and the occasion. Read it as one who would have read it in the first century.

Outline

There are two important sections to the book.

• Chapters 1-11 are often called the doctrinal section, or what God has done for us.
• Chapters 12-16 can be called the practical part, our response to God for what he has done.

The theme is found in 1:16-17—1) the gospel is God’s power for salvation for everyone, Jew and Gentile, and 2) the righteous live by faith.

Major concepts by chapters:

Part 1

1—Gentiles are in sin and under God’s wrath
2—Jews, too, have sinned and are under God’s wrath
3—All have sinned; righteousness is from God and by faith in Jesus Christ
4—Abraham is our example of righteousness by a life of faith
5—We are free from wrath because of Jesus
6—We are free from sin if we are in Jesus
7—We are free from the law if we are in Christ
8—We are free from death through Jesus Christ
9—God is sovereign, but merciful
10—Concern for Israel
11—Even Israel has a remnant of faithful

Part 2—We are saved by faith; can we live by faith?

12—Give yourselves to God
13—Submit to the government; love
14—Disputable matters
15—The strong and the weak
16—Closing greetings