Introduction
The book of Romans is one of the most influential books in the Bible. It is also a book that demands careful attention.
It is the longest, most systematic, and most detailed description of Christian theology found anywhere in the New Testament. It addresses problems like as law and grace, Jews and Gentiles, and sin and righteousness.
It is also a book that requires us to think about the sovereignty of God in our salvation. Throughout the book, we see how Jesus was chosen and predestined by God to be our Savior. We see how Jesus’ sacrifice on the cross is credited to us as righteousness and that we are made righteous by faith.
I. Justification by Faith
The concept of Justification by Faith is one of the most fundamental doctrines of Christianity. It is a central theme in the book of Romans, and in particular, it is presented in chapters 1:18-11:36. These chapters provide a thorough explanation of the concept of justification by faith and its importance in the Christian faith.
The apostle Paul, who wrote the book of Romans, begins by pointing out that all people, regardless of their background or culture, have sinned and fall short of the glory of God (Romans 3:23). This means that all people are guilty before God and deserve punishment for their sins. However, Paul then goes on to explain that God has provided a way for people to be saved from their sins and justified in his sight.
This way of salvation is through faith in Jesus Christ. Paul writes, “For in the gospel the righteousness of God is revealed—a righteousness that is by faith from first to last, just as it is written: ‘The righteous will live by faith'” (Romans 1:17). This means that a person can be made right with God, not by their own good works or efforts, but through faith in Jesus Christ.
Paul explains this concept further in chapter 4 of Romans. He points to the example of Abraham, who was justified by faith and not by his works. Abraham believed God’s promises, and his faith was credited to him as righteousness. In the same way, those who have faith in Jesus Christ are justified in God’s sight and receive the gift of eternal life.
The importance of justification by faith is emphasized throughout the book of Romans. Paul writes, “Therefore, since we have been justified through faith, we have peace with God through our Lord Jesus Christ” (Romans 5:1). This peace with God is only possible through faith in Jesus Christ and the justification that comes through him.
Justification by faith also has practical implications for the Christian life. Paul explains that those who have been justified by faith have been set free from sin and have become slaves to righteousness (Romans 6:18). This means that Christians are no longer bound by sin and its power, but are empowered to live a life that is pleasing to God.
In addition, justification by faith also has implications for how Christians relate to one another. Paul writes, “Accept one another, then, just as Christ accepted you, in order to bring praise to God” (Romans 15:7). Because all believers have been justified by faith, they are all equal in God’s sight and should treat one another with love and acceptance.
In conclusion, the concept of justification by faith is central to the Christian faith and is presented in detail in the book of Romans. It is through faith in Jesus Christ that a person can be justified in God’s sight and receive the gift of eternal life. This justification has practical implications for the Christian life and how believers relate to one another. As Paul writes, “For in the gospel a righteousness from God is revealed, a righteousness that is by faith from first to last, just as it is written: ‘The righteous will live by faith'”(Romans 1:17).
A. Sin – The “Need” for Salvation: Understanding the Message of Romans 1:18-3:20
Romans is one of the most important books in the New Testament. Written by the apostle Paul, it presents a comprehensive explanation of the Christian faith, including the concept of sin and the need for salvation. In chapters Romans 1:18-3:20, Paul addresses the issue of sin and the universal need for salvation, highlighting the need of both Gentiles and Jews.
The Need of the Gentiles (Romans 1:18-2:16)
In Romans 1:18-32, Paul explains how the Gentiles have turned away from God and become trapped in sin. He notes that despite knowing God, they have rejected Him and have instead worshipped idols and engaged in immoral behavior. As a result, they are under the wrath of God, facing eternal condemnation.
In chapter 2, Paul addresses the Jews who may have been thinking that they were exempt from God’s judgment. He emphasizes that God’s judgment is impartial and that both Jews and Gentiles are accountable for their actions. Paul reminds the Jews that they have been entrusted with the Law of God, but they have failed to live up to its standards. Therefore, they too are in need of salvation.
The Need of the Jews (Romans 2:17-3:8)
In Romans 2:17-29, Paul addresses the Jews directly, pointing out their hypocrisy and their failure to live up to the Law of God. He notes that they have a false sense of security because they are descendants of Abraham and have the Law of God. However, Paul emphasizes that true circumcision is not physical but spiritual, and it is not enough to have the Law; one must also keep it.
In chapter 3, Paul makes it clear that both Jews and Gentiles are under sin and in need of salvation. He notes that all have sinned and fall short of the glory of God and that there is none righteous, not even one. Paul argues that the Law of God cannot save anyone, but it only serves to reveal sin. Therefore, the only solution to the problem of sin is through faith in Jesus Christ.
The Universal Need for Salvation (Romans 3:9-20)
In Romans 3:9-20, Paul emphasizes that all people are under sin and in need of salvation. He notes that both Jews and Gentiles are guilty before God, and no one is exempt from sin’s consequences. Paul cites several Old Testament scriptures to support his argument, emphasizing that no one can be justified before God by their own efforts.
The message of Romans 1:18-3:20 is clear: all people, regardless of their background or culture, are under sin and in need of salvation. The Gentiles have turned away from God, and the Jews have failed to live up to the Law of God. However, the solution to the problem of sin is through faith in Jesus Christ. Paul emphasizes that salvation is available to all who believe in Jesus, regardless of their background or ethnicity. Therefore, as believers, we must share the message of salvation with others and strive to live a life that is pleasing to God.
B. Understanding the “Provision” Made for Salvation in Romans 3:21-31 and 4:1-25
The concept of justification by faith is one of the central themes of the Christian faith. It is a concept that is rooted in the book of Romans, where the apostle Paul explains that salvation is a gift from God, received through faith in Jesus Christ. In Romans 3:21-31 and 4:1-25, Paul explains the provision made for salvation through justification by faith, using the example of Abraham.
God’s Righteousness through Faith (Romans 3:21-31)
In Romans 3:21-31, Paul explains that salvation is a gift from God, received through faith in Jesus Christ. He emphasizes that all people, both Jews and Gentiles, are under sin and in need of salvation. However, God has provided a way of salvation through the death and resurrection of Jesus Christ.
Paul argues that God’s righteousness is revealed through faith in Jesus Christ. He notes that the Law of God cannot save anyone, but it only serves to reveal sin. Therefore, the only solution to the problem of sin is through faith in Jesus Christ. Paul emphasizes that salvation is available to all who believe in Jesus, regardless of their background or ethnicity. Therefore, as believers, we must share the message of salvation with others and strive to live a life that is pleasing to God.
Abraham as an Example (Romans 4:1-25)
In Romans 4:1-25, Paul uses the example of Abraham to illustrate the concept of justification by faith. He notes that Abraham was justified by faith, even before the Law of God was given to Moses. Abraham trusted God, and it was counted as righteousness for him.
Paul argues that the same principle applies to all people. Just as Abraham was justified by faith, so too are believers in Jesus Christ. We are not justified by our works, but by our faith in Jesus Christ. Paul emphasizes that salvation is a gift from God, received through faith in Jesus Christ. Therefore, we must trust in Jesus and his sacrifice on the cross for our sins.
C. Freedom – Understanding the “Result” of Salvation in Romans 5:1-21, 6:1-23, 7:1-25, and 8:1-39
One of the greatest promises of salvation is freedom. Through our faith in Jesus Christ, we are set free from the bondage of sin, death, and the Law. In the book of Romans, the apostle Paul explains the concept of freedom as the “result” of salvation. In this article, we will examine Romans 5:1-21, 6:1-23, 7:1-25, and 8:1-39 to understand the different types of freedom that come through salvation.
Freedom from Wrath (Romans 5:1-21)
In Romans 5:1-21, Paul explains that through our faith in Jesus Christ, we are set free from the wrath of God. He emphasizes that we are justified by faith and have peace with God through our Lord Jesus Christ. Paul notes that while we were still sinners, Christ died for us, demonstrating God’s love for us.
Through our faith in Jesus, we are no longer enemies of God but have been reconciled to him. Paul notes that just as sin came into the world through one man (Adam), salvation has come into the world through one man (Jesus Christ). Therefore, as believers, we can rejoice in the freedom that comes from being reconciled to God through faith in Jesus Christ.
Freedom from Sin (Romans 6:1-23)
In Romans 6:1-23, Paul explains that through our faith in Jesus Christ, we are set free from the bondage of sin. He notes that as believers, we have died to sin and have been raised to new life in Christ. Paul emphasizes that we must no longer let sin reign in our bodies but must present ourselves to God as instruments of righteousness.
Paul notes that while we were slaves to sin, we have now been set free from its power. We are no longer slaves to sin but are slaves to righteousness. Therefore, as believers, we must strive to live a life that is pleasing to God, rejecting the temptation to sin and pursuing righteousness.
Freedom from the Law (Romans 7:1-25)
In Romans 7:1-25, Paul explains that through our faith in Jesus Christ, we are set free from the Law. He notes that we have died to the Law and have been released from its bondage. Paul emphasizes that the Law is good, but it cannot save us from sin. Therefore, the only solution to the problem of sin is through faith in Jesus Christ.
Paul notes that as believers, we must no longer serve the Law but serve in the new way of the Spirit. We must strive to live a life that is pleasing to God, guided by the Spirit and not by the letter of the Law. Therefore, as believers, we must embrace the freedom that comes from being released from the bondage of the Law.
Freedom from Death (Romans 8:1-39)
In Romans 8:1-39, Paul explains that through our faith in Jesus Christ, we are set free from the power of death. He notes that there is now no condemnation for those who are in Christ Jesus. Paul emphasizes that as believers, we have been adopted as sons and daughters of God and are heirs of God and co-heirs with Christ.
Paul notes that while we still face suffering and hardship in this life, nothing can separate us from the love of God in Christ Jesus. He emphasizes that we have been set free from the fear of death and can look forward to eternal life with God.
D. Jew and Gentile – Understanding the “Scope” of Salvation in Romans 9:1-33, 10:1-21, and 11:1-36
The book of Romans presents the gospel message as the power of God for salvation to everyone who believes. However, the concept of salvation is not limited to a specific group of people. In Romans 9:1-33, 10:1-21, and 11:1-36, the apostle Paul explains the “scope” of salvation, addressing the relationship between Jews and Gentiles in the plan of God. In this article, we will explore these chapters to understand the scope of salvation.
God Chooses to Save Believers (Romans 9:1-33)
In Romans 9:1-33, Paul explains that God has chosen to save those who believe in Him. He emphasizes that salvation is not based on human effort or works, but on God’s sovereign choice. Paul notes that not all Israelites are true Israelites, meaning that not all who are descended from Israel are part of God’s chosen people.
Paul emphasizes that God’s choice is based on His mercy and grace, not on human merit. He notes that God has the right to show mercy to whomever He chooses and to harden whomever He desires. Therefore, as believers, we must trust in God’s sovereign plan and submit ourselves to His will.
Israel Chose to Trust in Their Own Righteousness (Romans 10:1-21)
In Romans 10:1-21, Paul explains that Israel chose to trust in their own righteousness instead of trusting in God’s righteousness. He notes that they pursued righteousness through the Law, but they failed to obtain it because they did not pursue it by faith. Paul emphasizes that Christ is the end of the Law, and everyone who believes in Him will be justified.
Paul notes that the message of salvation is not limited to the Jews but is for everyone who believes. He emphasises that faith is gained through hearing the message, which is heard through the word about Christ. Therefore, as believers, we must proclaim the message of salvation to all people, including Jews and Gentiles.
Through faith, both Jews and Gentiles can be saved (Romans 11:1-36)
In Romans 11:1-36, Paul explains that both Jews and Gentiles can have salvation through faith in Jesus Christ. He notes that while Israel has experienced a partial hardening, it is not permanent. Paul emphasizes that God has not rejected His people but has opened the door for Gentiles to receive salvation.
Paul notes that the Gentiles have been grafted into the olive tree, which represents the people of God. He emphasizes that salvation has come to the Gentiles to make Israel jealous. Paul notes that God’s plan is to save a remnant of Israel and to use the salvation of the Gentiles to provoke Israel to jealousy.
Therefore, as believers, we must embrace the fact that both Jews and Gentiles can have salvation through faith in Jesus Christ. We must seek to share the message of salvation with everyone, knowing that God’s plan is to save people from all nations and ethnic groups. We must trust in God’s sovereign plan and pray for the salvation of all people.
The book of Romans is undoubtedly one of the most profound and life-transforming books of the Bible. The first eleven chapters of Romans provide a detailed theological exposition of the gospel of Jesus Christ, emphasizing man’s sinfulness and his need for salvation, justification by faith, as well as the extent of salvation for both Jews and Gentiles. However, the apostle Paul does not stop at presenting these deep theological truths; he goes on to show their practical implications in the life of a believer. In Romans 12:1-15:13, Paul discusses the transformed life that results from genuine faith in Christ.
II. The transformed life (Romans 12:1-15:13)
It is characterized by a change in conduct, attitudes, and relationships. In other words, it affects the way a believer lives in all areas of life. Paul covers several aspects of this transformed life in this section of the book. Whether you’re an old Christian or a new one, there’s a plan for transforming your life. The transformed life involves a total change by the renewing of your mind. This is a total change that goes beyond the initial moment of salvation.
A. Firstly, the transformed life affects a believer’s overall conduct.
In Romans 12:1-21, Paul exhorts believers to present their bodies as living sacrifices, holy and acceptable to God. This means that a transformed life is one that is wholly devoted to God and seeks to honor Him in every aspect of life. Paul goes on to encourage believers to use their spiritual gifts for the common good, to love genuinely, to abhor evil, to show hospitality, and to bless those who persecute them.
B. Secondly, the transformed life affects a believer’s relationship with civil authority
In Romans 13:1-7, Paul teaches that believers should submit to the governing authorities because they have been instituted by God. They should also pay taxes and give honor to whom honor is due. This is because the transformed life recognizes that all authority comes from God, and Christians are called to be obedient to the laws of the land.
C. Thirdly, the transformed life affects a believer’s relationship with their fellow man
In Romans 13:8-14, Paul emphasizes the importance of love for one’s neighbor as a fulfillment of the law. A transformed life is one that loves genuinely, does not seek to harm others, and puts on the Lord Jesus Christ. This is because the transformed life recognizes that all men are created in the image of God and should be treated with dignity and respect.
D. Lastly, the transformed life affects a believer’s relationship with their brethren
In Romans 14:1-15:13, Paul addresses issues of conscience and personal convictions. He emphasizes the importance of not judging or despising one another but instead seeking to build each other up in love. The transformed life is one that seeks to maintain peace, unity, and edification within the body of Christ.
In conclusion, the transformed life is a practical outworking of genuine faith in Jesus Christ. It affects a believer’s conduct, attitudes, and relationships in all areas of life. A transformed life is wholly devoted to God, recognizes the authority of civil government, loves genuinely, treats all men with dignity and respect, and seeks to maintain peace, unity, and edification within the body of Christ. May we all seek to live out this transformed life by the power of the Holy Spirit.
Concluding Remarks, Instructions, and Benediction (Romans 15:14-16:27)
In Romans 15:14-16:27, Paul expresses his gratitude to the Romans and provides them with some practical advice for their Christian walk. First, he commends the believers in Rome for their faithfulness and encourages them to continue to grow in their faith. He also expresses his desire to visit them soon and asks for their prayers in his ministry.
Paul then gives some specific instructions to the Roman believers. He urges them to be united in their thinking and to avoid causing division within the church. He encourages them to live in harmony with one another and to love one another, even if they have differing opinions on non-essential matters.
In addition, Paul reminds the Roman believers of their responsibility to support one another financially and to assist in the spread of the gospel. He mentions several individuals who have been helpful to him in his ministry and encourages the Romans to support them as well.
Finally, Paul concludes his letter with a beautiful doxology, praising God for His grace and wisdom in the plan of salvation. He emphasizes the importance of sharing the gospel with all people and expresses his hope that the Romans will continue to be faithful to the Lord.
As we reflect on Paul’s concluding remarks in the book of Romans, we can see that his words are still relevant for us today. Just like the believers in Rome, we are called to be united in our thinking, to love one another, and to support each other in our Christian walk. We are also called to be active in spreading the gospel and to trust in God’s grace and wisdom as we do so.
May we take Paul’s words to heart and continue to grow in our faith, love, and service to the Lord. May we be faithful to the gospel message and share it with all those around us, so that they too may experience the transforming power of Jesus Christ in their lives.
