Romans - Authorized King James Version (KJV)

Introduction

Romans is an epistle (letter) in the New Testament written to address specific circumstances, challenges, and questions in the early Christian church. The letter combines theological instruction with practical exhortation, demonstrating the connection between Christian doctrine and everyday living.

Like other New Testament epistles, Romans addresses particular situations while establishing principles with broader application. The letter reflects the apostolic authority of its author and the normative teaching of the early church, contributing to the development of Christian theology and practice.

Throughout Romans, readers can observe the practical outworking of the gospel in community life, personal ethics, and spiritual development. The letter demonstrates how Christ's finished work transforms individual believers and reshapes their relationships and priorities.

Historical Context

Romans was written from Corinth (c. 57 CE) as Paul prepared for his Jerusalem visit and planned mission to Spain. The letter addresses theological questions about salvation, law, and God's plan for Jews and Gentiles.

Jewish-Gentile Relations

The Roman church included both Jewish and Gentile Christians with potential tensions over law observance, food regulations, and calendar observances. Romans addresses these practical issues through theological exposition.

Major Themes

Romans systematically develops several interconnected theological themes:

Universal Sinfulness

Paul establishes that all humanity—both Jews and Gentiles—stands guilty before God (Romans 1:18-3:20). This universal sinfulness demonstrates the need for a salvation that comes by faith rather than works of the law. Paul's analysis of sin goes beyond individual acts to the underlying condition of rebellion against God.

Justification by Faith

The letter's central theme presents justification as God's declaration of righteousness for those who believe in Christ (Romans 3:21-5:21). This righteousness comes not through law-keeping but through faith in Christ's atoning work. Paul demonstrates this principle from Scripture (Abraham's example) and through the contrast between Adam and Christ.

New Life in the Spirit

Romans explores how believers are freed from sin's dominion to live in the power of the Spirit (Romans 6-8). This progressive sanctification involves dying to sin, serving in the Spirit's newness, and experiencing adoption as God's children. The Spirit's indwelling enables believers to fulfill the law's righteous requirement through transformed hearts.

God's Faithfulness to Israel

Paul addresses the theological problem of Israel's unbelief (Romans 9-11), affirming God's sovereignty in election while maintaining human responsibility. He argues that God has not rejected His people but has always worked through a faithful remnant. The temporary hardening of Israel serves God's purpose of bringing salvation to the Gentiles, but ultimately "all Israel will be saved."

Transformed Relationships

The letter's ethical section (Romans 12-15) shows how theological truth transforms relationships with other believers, enemies, civil authorities, and those with whom believers have conscience disagreements. The gospel creates a new community that embodies sacrificial love, harmony amid diversity, and consideration for others' consciences.

Key Passages

"Study to shew thyself approved unto God, a workman that needeth not to be ashamed, rightly dividing the word of truth."
2 Timothy 2:15