Introduction to Romans

Romans 1:1-6

Paul identifies himself so there is no question as to authorship, as he did in his other books. He identifies himself as a servant or slave of Jesus Christ. He has been called or chosen to be an apostle, a special messenger, or commissioner, specifically bringing in a new message. Paul, like the other apostles, was delivering a new message, but it was the one promised by the prophets in the old testament.

“Paul, a servant of Jesus Christ, called to be an apostle, separated unto the gospel of God, (Which he had promised afore by his prophets in the holy scriptures,)” (Romans 1:1-2)

Paul next states what the letter is about. While there are similarities between the various letters, each addresses a specific need. In the process, each incorporates necessary teaching about doctrines from each of the others, and from the other prophets and apostles, to give a standard by which we can check and refine our understandings.

The book is about Jesus Christ, his earthly descent from the family of David as predicted in scripture, his divine nature and the proof supplied by his resurrection from the dead. It explains the motivation of God, and the means of obtaining salvation.

“Concerning his Son Jesus Christ our Lord, which was made of the seed of David according to the flesh; And declared to be the Son of God with power, according to the spirit of holiness, by the resurrection from the dead: By whom we have received grace and apostleship, for obedience to the faith among all nations, for his name: Among whom are ye also the called of Jesus Christ:” (Romans 1:3-6)

Romans sets out in detail the sin nature of man, why Christ’s sacrifice was needed, The relationship to the Old Testament, and how to obtain salvation more completely than any other book. While each of the other books add detail and reinforce our understanding, Romans brings it all together in one place. It goes into detail about the effect in our daily earthly life, and like Hebrews, accentuates the danger of false professions.

The letter is addressed to all the Christians at Rome. Rome was a melting pot at the time, having Jews, Romans, Greeks, and many other ethnic groups. Their backgrounds varied widely, and Paul seeks to consolidate their understanding.

“To all that be in Rome, beloved of God, called to be saints: Grace to you and peace from God our Father, and the Lord Jesus Christ.” (Romans 1:7)

While the book of Hebrews covers many of the same ideas, there is a great deal of difference in the groups addressed. Hebrews is to a group that has had considerable teaching on the basics, but has never gone beyond that. Romans, on the other hand, is to newer Christians who may still not fully understand those basics, but are interested in learning.