Commentary on Romans

Introduction to Romans

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.

Literary Features

Romans follows the conventions of ancient letter-writing while adapting them for theological instruction. The epistle combines formal elements of Greco-Roman correspondence with Jewish expository methods to communicate Christian teaching.

Structure

The epistle follows a typical pattern including:

• Opening - Sender, recipients, and greeting (often theologically expanded)
• Thanksgiving/Prayer - Expressing gratitude and/or intercession for recipients
• Body - Doctrinal exposition followed by practical application
• Closing - Final exhortations, greetings, and benediction

Literary Devices

The epistle employs various rhetorical techniques including:

• Diatribe - Dialogue with imaginary opponent through questions and answers
• Paraenesis - Moral exhortation often through contrasting vices and virtues
• Examples - Drawing on biblical figures or contemporary situations as models
• Metaphors - Extended comparisons that illustrate theological concepts

These epistolary features reflect both Greco-Roman rhetorical education and Jewish interpretive traditions adapted for Christian purposes.

Key Passages in Romans

Book Outline

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.

Theological Significance

Romans contributes significantly to biblical theology in several areas:

Christology

The book develops understanding of Jesus Christ's person and work, exploring aspects of His identity, mission, and continuing significance. These christological insights inform Christian faith and practice.

Soteriology

The book articulates aspects of salvation accomplished through Christ and applied by the Holy Spirit. This soteriological teaching addresses the full scope of redemption—past, present, and future.

Ecclesiology

Through both instruction and example, Romans shapes understanding of the church's nature, purpose, and practices. These ecclesiological insights guide Christian community life and mission.

Eschatology

The book contributes to biblical teaching about last things, including Christ's return, resurrection, judgment, and the new creation. This eschatological perspective provides hope and shapes present Christian living.

Chapter Summaries

Chapter 1

Chapter 1 of Romans continues the narrative with important developments and teachings.

Chapter 2

Chapter 2 of Romans continues the narrative with important developments and teachings.

Chapter 3

Chapter 3 of Romans continues the narrative with important developments and teachings.

Chapter 4

Chapter 4 of Romans continues the narrative with important developments and teachings.

Chapter 5

Chapter 5 of Romans continues the narrative with important developments and teachings.

Chapter 6

Chapter 6 of Romans continues the narrative with important developments and teachings.

Chapter 7

Chapter 7 of Romans continues the narrative with important developments and teachings.

Chapter 8

Chapter 8 of Romans continues the narrative with important developments and teachings.

Chapter 9

Chapter 9 of Romans continues the narrative with important developments and teachings.

Chapter 10

Chapter 10 of Romans continues the narrative with important developments and teachings.

Chapter 11

Chapter 11 of Romans continues the narrative with important developments and teachings.

Chapter 12

Chapter 12 of Romans continues the narrative with important developments and teachings.

Chapter 13

Chapter 13 of Romans continues the narrative with important developments and teachings.

Chapter 14

Chapter 14 of Romans continues the narrative with important developments and teachings.

Chapter 15

Chapter 15 of Romans continues the narrative with important developments and teachings.

Chapter 16

Chapter 16 of Romans continues the narrative with important developments and teachings.

Contemporary Application

This book provides valuable insights for contemporary application:

Christlike Character

The book's portrayal of Jesus and teaching about Him provides the pattern for Christian character and conduct. This Christlikeness manifests in relationships, attitudes, speech, and actions. The transformative power of the gospel enables believers to grow in resembling Christ.

Church Life and Mission

Principles for healthy church community address worship, leadership, conflict resolution, and mutual edification. These guidelines help contemporary churches maintain biblical faithfulness while addressing current challenges. They also inform the church's missional engagement with surrounding culture.

Spiritual Warfare

The book acknowledges the reality of spiritual conflict and provides resources for overcoming evil. This perspective balances awareness of spiritual opposition with confidence in Christ's victory. It helps believers recognize and resist temptation while avoiding both naive dismissal and unhealthy obsession with demonic activity.

Eschatological Hope

The anticipation of Christ's return and the fulfillment of God's promises provides perspective for current circumstances. This hope sustains believers through suffering and shapes priorities and decisions. It balances engagement with present responsibilities and anticipation of future glory.

Commentary Contents

Chapter Quick Links