Before we jump into Romans, Lets take a quick look at a little of the known history and context surrounding this book – some of which will help us understand it better, and give a preview of what is to come.
First of all, we know this book was written by Paul, as a letter to the Roman churches (Romans 1:1,7). As it is addressed ‘to all who are in Rome’, we can inference that there was more than a single church in such a large city – estimates vary, but it is believed the City of Rome had close to a million people in it around the time this was written (around 58AD). The letter was then designed for ‘distribution’ – which is no doubt part of the reason we still have copies with us today in the New Testament.
The central theme, or purpose, of the book of Romans is to provide almost a complete overview of Christianity and it’s central doctrines. This ranges from the sinfulness of man to the redemption of God through Jesus Christ His Son. Therefore, it’s position in the New Testament straight after Acts (the last of the Historical accounts), is logical, as it does provide one of the most complete overviews in one place.
The reason it is so complete, rather than a letter addressing a specific issue or set of issues, is that we know Paul had yet to visit Rome (Romans 1:11,15), and so in his absence appears to want to provide a detailed overview of all doctrine – remember, at this point there was nothing but some written accounts of Jesus, and some letters sent to and from various people – the compiling of the Gospels and Epistles really didn’t begin in earnest for over 100 years, and it was not until around the time of this letter that scholars believe many of the gospels were written – another 10 years later for Luke!
Our goal then is to gain a greater understanding of Jesus and our salvation in Him through this Gospel – God’s divine grace and it’s place in our life.
Lord, give us insight through the Holy Spirit into Your Word, as we take time to look through the book of Romans. In Jesus name. Amen.
God stuff … keep it up!!!!!!!!!!!!