God’s story in our identity

The apostle Paul did not write the letter to the Romans using bullet points. This is not an executive summary. Paul is a lawyer making a case. He emphasizes specific needs and raises questions. He starts with the “why?”. 

Paul wanted to personally deliver a message to the Roman believers, but every time he planned the trip, something got in the way. So, while he was in Corinth on his third missionary journey, he found out that a woman named Phoebe was planning to go to Rome. He asked her to deliver the letter for him. This letter was written and delivered in AD 58. 

Weekend Recharge

Weekend Recharge

God reveals himself to humanity through his creation. The Bible states that the heavens declare the glory of God (Ps. 19:1). He has also set eternity in our hearts (Eccl. 3:11). We are made in God’s image, with a moral awareness, and we know that there is something beyond this life. Deep in our souls, we know God exists.

Paul explained the theme of his letter in Romans 1:16-17. He boldly stated that he was not ashamed to proclaim the good news about Jesus, because it was the only way for people to have a relationship with the living God. The gospel (“news of victory”) provides the power to have a right standing before God and to live for God.

Many reasons can prevent people from sharing their faith with others. However, we learn from Paul in his letter to the Romans that he is compelled to share the message (Rom. 1:14). He can’t imagine staying silent about the most crucial message for both now and eternity. 

Following Paul through the book of Acts, we accompany him on three missionary journeys. Paul’s third journey, from AD 53 to 58, focused on strengthening the churches he had founded and addressing false teachings. He traveled through Galatia and Phrygia, stayed in Ephesus for two to three years, and then visited Macedonia and Greece. 

Welcome to a study of Paul’s letter to the Romans!