Introduction
One of the most profound books in existence, known as the "Cathedral of Scripture." The divinely revealed Gospel of God in Romans is the antidote for the babel of false gospels of our day.
Call the profound book and yet the simplest document, the epistle is for the simple sinner and the deepest thinker. The sinner is confronted with the simplicity and purity of the Gospel, and the gauntlet is thrown down for the intellect to search the unsearchable riches of Christ. The simplest truths taught in Romans will beckon us to ascend to the towering and lofty heights of reverence taught within its pages.
Romans depicts how lost and helpless humanity can be delivered by Christ, and provides a logical and powerful solution to the condition of the soul. The book centers around the personal and efficacious work of the Lord Jesus at Calvary. This true redemption in Christ is seen as the only hope, but what a grand and glorious hope.
Rome in 56 A.D.
*capitol of the 4th world empire (largest in the world)
*2-4 million population
*all roads ran to and from Rome
*one half of the people were slaves
*the Jewish population was brought to Rome by Pompey in 63 and sold as slaves. Eventually they were asked to leave by Claudius because they were rebellious. Acts 18:2)
*polytheistic religion - cultured people brought in foreign gods
*temple devoted to Egyptian deities: Ispis, Serpis, etc.
*monuments to Persian gods: Mithra (warlord god)
* Syrian deities: Astarte (worshiped by Nero)
Why did the Holy Spirit prompt Paul to write Romans?
1. To get cooperation in his missionary work: 15:24
2. To win Romans to preach the Gospel: 14:1 - 15:13
3. For prayer support: 15:30-33
4. Counter errors from Galatia and Corinth
5. Theological reason: salvation by faith
THEME: Imparting of God’s Righteousness to sinners
OUTLINE:
I. The wrath of God against all sin 1:1-3:20 // GOD’S HOLINESS IN CONDEMNATION OF THE WORLD
II. The righteousness of Christ in saving sinners 3:21-5:21 // GOD’S GRACE IN JUSTIFICATION
III. The sanctifying work of God for believers 6-8 // GOD’S POWER TO SANCTIFY
IV. The omniscience of God in dealing with Israel 9-11 // GOD’S SOVEREIGNTY IN SAVING MEN
V. Practical considerations for Believers 12-14 // GOD’S WISDOM FOR HIS PEOPLE
VI. Paul’s personal exhortation and salutations 15-16 // GOD IS GRACIOUS WITH PAUL AND US