Overview of Romans
Welcome to our study of the book of Romans! Romans is one of the most powerful and foundational letters in the Bible, written by the apostle Paul. It’s packed with deep truths about God’s plan for humanity, the role of faith, and how Jesus Christ’s life, death, and resurrection changes everything.
Paul wrote this letter to the Christians in Rome, who were a mix of Jewish and Gentile believers. They were going through a lot of tension, trying to understand how to live out their faith together. This letter shows how everyone—no matter their background—needs the grace of God. Romans explores the power of the Gospel and how we are made right with God through faith, not by following rules.
Key Themes in Romans:
- Justification by Faith: We are made right with God through faith in Jesus, not by our own efforts (Romans 1:17).
- Sin and Grace: All have sinned, but God’s grace through Christ is enough to save us (Romans 3:23-24).
- Living a Transformed Life: Once we know Christ, we are called to live differently—renewed in heart and mind (Romans 12:2).
Religious and Cultural Diversity
- Polytheistic Beliefs: Most Romans worshiped multiple gods and goddesses, following traditional Roman religion and Greek influences. Temples dedicated to gods like Jupiter, Mars, and Venus were common. Some also worshiped the emperor as a god.
- Philosophies and Worldviews: There were different philosophical schools of thought like Stoicism and Epicureanism. These emphasized different aspects of life such as self-control, pleasure, and materialism.
- Idolatry: Many people created idols and statues of gods, worshiping physical representations of their deities. This practice went against the biblical teaching that God is spirit and should not be represented by idols (Exodus 20:4).
Morality and Social Behavior
- Moral Decline: Romans were known for a decline in morality, especially among the wealthy and powerful. Public life was often filled with greed, corruption, and indulgence in pleasures.
- Sexual Immorality: Paul points out in Romans 1 that many people were living in sexual immorality, abandoning God’s design for relationships. This included adultery, homosexuality, and promiscuity, which were common and often accepted in Roman society.
- Pride and Materialism: The Romans were known for their wealth, and many citizens pursued material goods and status. Social classes were divided sharply, with wealthy elites living in luxury while slaves and the poor lived harsh lives.
Social Structure
- Wealthy Elites: The Roman upper class (patricians) lived in grand villas, held political power, and led lavish lifestyles. They were often disconnected from the struggles of the lower classes.
- Slavery: Slavery was widespread in Rome. Many slaves were prisoners of war or born into slavery, and they were used for labor, household chores, or entertainment. Though some slaves could earn their freedom, most lived under harsh conditions.
- Lower Classes and Foreigners: Rome was a multicultural city with people from across the empire, including Jews, Greeks, and people from North Africa and the Middle East. The lower classes, often made up of foreigners or freed slaves, lived in cramped conditions and struggled with poverty.
Religious Tensions
- Jewish and Christian Minority: Although Rome had a large Jewish population, they were often in tension with the broader Roman culture. Jewish laws and traditions set them apart, which could cause conflict. Christianity was just beginning to spread, and Christians faced persecution as they refused to worship Roman gods or the emperor.
- Persecution of Christians: Christians were seen as a threat because they didn’t worship the Roman gods or participate in many aspects of Roman public life. This put them at odds with the state and the majority culture. Over time, this would lead to significant persecution.
Comparison to Today
- Similar Moral Issues: Like ancient Rome, many modern societies face challenges related to materialism, pride, and the pursuit of pleasure over God. Sexual immorality and idolization of fame, wealth, or status are still prevalent.
- Religious Diversity: Just as Rome had various religious practices, today we see diverse beliefs, often with tensions between different groups and the challenge for Christians to stand firm in their faith.
- Christian Minority: In many parts of the world, Christians are still a minority and sometimes face opposition for their beliefs, just as the early Christians in Rome did.
The Expulsion of Jews from Rome
Year of the Expulsion: Around AD 49 or AD 50, the Roman Emperor Claudius issued a decree expelling Jews from the city of Rome. This event is mentioned in various historical sources, including the Book of Acts and the Roman historian Suetonius.
Reason for the Expulsion:
- According to Suetonius, a Roman historian, the Jews were expelled because of “constant disturbances at the instigation of Chrestus.” Many historians believe this reference to “Chrestus” might be a misspelling of “Christus,” meaning Christ. This suggests that the disturbances were related to disputes between Jews and Jewish Christians about Jesus being the Messiah.
- As Christianity began to spread, tension arose in Jewish communities, with some Jews accepting Jesus as the Messiah and others rejecting the message. These conflicts likely led to unrest, which Claudius sought to resolve by expelling the entire Jewish population from Rome.
Biblical Reference: The expulsion is also mentioned in Acts 18:2, where it states that the apostle Paul met a Jewish couple, Aquila and Priscilla, who had recently come from Italy because “Claudius had commanded all the Jews to leave Rome.”
How Long Were They Banned?
- The exact duration of the expulsion is unclear, but it likely lasted for around five years. After the death of Claudius in AD 54, the new emperor, Nero, allowed the Jews to return to Rome. Nero’s policies were more tolerant, and the ban on Jews living in the city seems to have been lifted early in his reign.
The Return of the Jews to Rome
- Nero’s Reign: When Claudius died, Nero became emperor. Nero’s policies toward Jews were relatively lenient, especially in the early years of his rule. By the mid-50s AD, Jews, including Aquila and Priscilla, were able to return to Rome.
- Rebuilding the Jewish Community: Upon returning, the Jewish community in Rome continued to grow. However, tensions between Jews and Gentile Christians likely persisted. This explains why Paul, in his letter to the Romans, addresses both Jewish and Gentile believers, urging unity in Christ despite their different backgrounds.
Historical Context
- The Jewish expulsion from Rome was part of a broader context of tensions between Jews and the Roman Empire. Although Rome generally allowed religious diversity, Jews and early Christians were often viewed as troublesome because they didn’t participate in the traditional Roman worship of gods and the emperor.
- Jewish Rebellions: Over time, especially in Judea, tensions between Jews and Rome escalated, culminating in the Jewish Revolt in AD 66-70, which resulted in the destruction of the Temple in Jerusalem in AD 70.
- Continued Jewish Presence in Rome: Despite these tensions, a Jewish community existed in Rome before and after these events. Jews had lived in Rome since at least the 2nd century BC, and after the return in Nero’s time, the community continued to grow.
Impact on Early Christianity
- The expulsion had significant implications for early Christians, particularly for Jewish Christians. With Jews and Jewish Christians forced to leave Rome, Gentile Christians began to take leadership roles in the Roman church. This created some of the issues Paul addressed in his letter to the Romans, urging unity between Jewish and Gentile believers.
Rise of Gentile Christians in Rome
When the Jewish Christians were forced to leave Rome, Gentile Christians—those who were not of Jewish descent but had come to faith in Jesus—remained. This shift had several important consequences:
Gentile Leadership in the Roman Church:
- With the departure of Jewish Christians, Gentile believers naturally took on more prominent leadership roles within the Roman church. This changed the dynamics of the Christian community, which had previously been more Jewish in its traditions and customs. Gentile Christians, who did not observe Jewish laws like circumcision or dietary restrictions, likely began shaping the church’s practices and teachings in a way that was distinct from Jewish customs.
Growing Divide Between Jewish and Gentile Christians:
- Over time, a tension began to grow between Jewish and Gentile Christians. Jewish Christians continued to observe the Mosaic Law (Torah), while Gentile Christians did not feel bound by these laws. The letter to the Romans, written by the Apostle Paul, reflects this growing divide. Paul addresses both groups, urging unity and reminding them that salvation is through faith in Christ, not through the observance of the law.
- Romans 14 is a key passage where Paul speaks to this issue. He tells the Roman Christians not to judge one another over differences in diet (Jewish Christians following kosher laws versus Gentile Christians eating all kinds of food) or the observance of certain holy days.
Paul’s Letter to the Romans
Paul’s letter to the Roman church, written around AD 57, addresses the growing Gentile Christian community. He emphasizes the importance of unity between Jewish and Gentile believers and reminds them of their shared faith in Jesus Christ. In Romans 3:22-23, Paul writes, “There is no difference between Jew and Gentile, for all have sinned and fall short of the glory of God.” This was a central theme in Paul’s theology—whether Jew or Gentile, all are justified through faith in Christ.
Paul also cautioned the Gentile Christians against arrogance or believing they had replaced the Jews as God’s chosen people. In Romans 11:17-24, he uses the metaphor of an olive tree, explaining that Gentiles have been “grafted” into the tree of God’s people, but they should not become proud, as the natural branches (the Jews) could also be grafted back in.
Nero’s Persecution of Christians:
- As Gentile Christians gained influence in Rome, they also faced new challenges. Under Emperor Nero, who came to power after Claudius, Christianity began to be viewed with suspicion. In AD 64, a great fire broke out in Rome, and Nero famously blamed the Christians for starting the fire, which led to the first significant persecution of Christians in Rome.
- Nero’s persecution was brutal, with Christians being executed in horrific ways, such as being burned alive, crucified, or fed to wild animals in public spectacles. While the Jewish Christians had only recently returned to Rome after the expulsion, it was primarily the Gentile Christians, who had remained in the city, that faced the brunt of this persecution.
- Paul’s Martyrdom: It was during Nero’s persecution that the Apostle Paul was believed to have been martyred. As a Roman citizen, Paul was likely beheaded around AD 64-67. Peter, another leading figure in the early church, was also martyred in Rome during this period, according to tradition, by crucifixion.
Impact on the Roman Christian Community:
Despite the persecution under Nero, the Christian community in Rome continued to grow. The resilience of the Gentile Christians who remained in the city helped establish Christianity as a lasting presence in Rome, which would eventually become the center of Christian faith.
- After Nero’s death in AD 68, persecution eased, and the Christian church in Rome became more structured, with formal leadership developing over time. The Gentile Christians played a significant role in this process, as many of them had now been leading the church for years.
Continued Tensions Between Jewish and Gentile Christians:
- Even after the return of Jewish Christians to Rome, tensions between Jewish and Gentile believers persisted. Paul’s letter to the Romans indicates his desire to address these tensions and promote a spirit of unity and love.
- Romans 15:7 speaks to this, where Paul encourages them to “accept one another, then, just as Christ accepted you, in order to bring praise to God.”
Conclusion:
The Gentile Christians who stayed in Rome during the Jewish expulsion became key figures in the development of the Roman church. They faced internal challenges, such as navigating their relationship with Jewish Christians, as well as external threats, particularly under Nero’s reign. However, through it all, their faith and leadership laid the foundation for what would become one of the most important Christian communities in history. Their endurance through persecution and their willingness to embrace a faith in Jesus that transcended Jewish law helped shape the trajectory of Christianity, not only in Rome but throughout the world.
Lesson 1: Introduction to Romans
Objective:
Introduce the Book of Romans, its background, and its key themes to students who are new to the Bible.
Overview of Romans:
- Author: The Apostle Paul
- Audience: Christians in Rome
- Purpose: Paul wrote this letter to explain the essentials of the Christian faith and how to live a life that honors God.
Key Themes:
- The Gospel: The message of salvation through Jesus Christ.
- Sin and Salvation: Understanding human sinfulness and the grace of God that offers salvation.
- Justification by Faith: How faith in Jesus Christ makes us right with God.
- Christian Living: Instructions on how to live a life that reflects Christian values.
Context: Paul wrote this letter around A.D. 57 while he was in Corinth, preparing for his visit to Rome. He wanted to establish a strong theological foundation for the Christians there and prepare them for his upcoming visit.
Lesson 2: Romans 1
Scripture Reading: Romans 1:1-7
Verses:
- Paul, a servant of Christ Jesus, called to be an apostle and set apart for the gospel of God—the gospel he promised beforehand through his prophets in the Holy Scriptures regarding his Son, who as to his earthly life was a descendant of David, and who through the Spirit of holiness was appointed the Son of God in power by his resurrection from the dead: Jesus Christ our Lord. Through him we received grace and apostleship to call all the Gentiles to the obedience that comes from faith for his name’s sake. And you also are among those Gentiles who are called to belong to Jesus Christ. To all in Rome who are loved by God and called to be his holy people: Grace and peace to you from God our Father and from the Lord Jesus Christ. (Romans 1:1-7, NIV)
Discussion Points:
Introduction to Paul:
- Paul introduces himself as a servant (or “slave”) of Jesus Christ, emphasizing his commitment to serving Christ and spreading the Gospel.
- He mentions his role as an apostle, which means he is sent by Christ to share the good news of salvation.
The Gospel:
- The “gospel” Paul speaks of is the good news about Jesus Christ. It’s the message that Jesus died for our sins and rose again to offer us salvation.
Jesus Christ:
- Paul describes Jesus as both a descendant of King David and the Son of God, highlighting His divine and human natures.
- Jesus’ resurrection from the dead is crucial as it confirms His power and divine status.
Grace and Apostleship:
- Paul talks about receiving grace (unearned favor from God) and being appointed as an apostle. His mission is to call all people, including the Gentiles (non-Jews), to faith in Jesus.
The Church in Rome:
- Paul addresses the believers in Rome, acknowledging that they are loved by God and called to be His holy people. He wishes them grace and peace from God and Jesus.
Discussion Questions:
- Who is Paul, and what is his mission?
- What is the “gospel,” and why is it important?
- How does Paul describe Jesus Christ in this passage?
- What does it mean to be called to belong to Jesus Christ?
Activity:
- Personal Connection: Have each student write a short reflection on what they think it means to be “called to belong to Jesus Christ” and how this might affect their lives.
Summary: Paul begins his letter by introducing himself and his mission to share the Gospel. He explains the significance of Jesus Christ and expresses his desire to strengthen the faith of the believers in Rome. This introduction sets the stage for understanding the deeper theological points Paul will discuss in the rest of the letter.
Homework:
- Read Romans 1:8-17 for the next session. Reflect on how Paul describes his relationship with the Christians in Rome and his view of the Gospel.
Bible Study Lesson: Romans 1 and 2
Introduction:
In this study, we will explore Romans 1 and 2, seeking to understand God’s message, the role of Jesus Christ, and how these scriptures reflect God’s truth. We will focus on God’s righteousness, judgment, and the significance of living according to His standards.
Bible Study Lesson: Romans 2
Introduction:
In Romans 2, Paul continues to explain God’s judgment and the role of the Law. This chapter emphasizes that true righteousness comes from God, not merely from outward appearances or adherence to the Law. We will explore how God judges impartially and how this impacts our understanding of righteousness and faith.
1. God’s Impartial Judgment (Romans 2:1-11)
You, therefore, have no excuse, you who pass judgment on someone else, for at whatever point you judge another, you are condemning yourself, because you who pass judgment do the same things. Now we know that God’s judgment against those who do such things is based on truth. So when you, a mere human being, pass judgment on them and yet do the same things, do you think you will escape God’s judgment? Or do you show contempt for the riches of his kindness, forbearance and patience, not realizing that God’s kindness is intended to lead you to repentance? But because of your stubbornness and your unrepentant heart, you are storing up wrath against yourself for the day of God’s wrath, when his righteous judgment will be revealed. God “will repay each person according to what they have done.” To those who by persistence in doing good seek glory, honor and immortality, he will give eternal life. But for those who are self-seeking and who reject the truth and follow evil, there will be wrath and anger. There will be trouble and distress for every human being who does evil: first for the Jew, then for the Gentile; but glory, honor and peace for everyone who does good: first for the Jew, then for the Gentile. For God does not show favoritism. (Romans 2:1-11)
God’s Message:
- God’s judgment is impartial and based on truth. It is not enough to judge others while committing the same sins; God’s kindness is meant to lead us to repentance. True righteousness is demonstrated through actions and faith, not just outward adherence to the Law.
Supporting Scripture:
- Psalm 9:8: “He rules the world in righteousness and judges the peoples with equity.”
- Matthew 7:1-2: “Do not judge, or you too will be judged. For in the same way you judge others, you will be judged, and with the measure you use, it will be measured to you.”
Jesus Christ’s Role:
- Jesus exemplifies God’s righteousness and impartiality. His teachings and sacrifice show the way to genuine repentance and righteousness.
Spiritual Reflection:
- Reflect on your own judgments and whether they align with God’s impartiality. How does Jesus help you to live a life of true righteousness and repentance?
2. The Role of the Law and True Circumcision (Romans 2:12-29)
All who sin apart from the law will also perish apart from the law, and all who sin under the law will be judged by the law. For it is not those who hear the law who are righteous in God’s sight, but it is those who obey the law who will be declared righteous. (Indeed, when Gentiles, who do not have the law, do by nature things required by the law, they are a law for themselves, even though they do not have the law. They show that the requirements of the law are written on their hearts, their consciences also bearing witness, and their thoughts sometimes accusing them and at other times even defending them.) This will take place on the day when God judges people’s secrets through Jesus Christ, as my gospel declares. (Romans 2:12-16)
Now you, if you call yourself a Jew; if you rely on the law and boast in God; if you know his will and approve of what is superior because you are instructed by the law; if you are convinced that you are a guide for the blind, a light for those who are in the dark, an instructor of the foolish, a teacher of little children, because you have in the law the embodiment of knowledge and truth— you, then, who teach others, do you not teach yourself? You who preach against stealing, do you steal? You who say that people should not commit adultery, do you commit adultery? You who abhor idols, do you rob temples? You who boast in the law, do you dishonor God by breaking the law? As it is written: “God’s name is blasphemed among the Gentiles because of you.” (Romans 2:17-24)
Circumcision has value if you observe the law, but if you break the law, you have become as though you had not been circumcised. So then, if those who are not circumcised keep the law’s requirements, will they not be regarded as though they were circumcised? The one who is not circumcised physically and yet obeys the law will condemn you who, even though you have the written code and circumcision, are a lawbreaker. A person is not a Jew who is one only outwardly, nor is circumcision merely outward and physical. No, a person is a Jew who is one inwardly; and circumcision is circumcision of the heart, by the Spirit, not by the written code. Such a person’s praise is not from other people, but from God. (Romans 2:25-29)
God’s Message:
- True righteousness is not about outward appearances or mere adherence to the Law. It is about internal transformation and obedience to God’s will. The Law’s true purpose is to guide us to a heart that honors God, not just outward rituals.
Supporting Scripture:
- Deuteronomy 10:16: “Circumcise your hearts, therefore, and do not be stiff-necked any longer.”
- 1 Samuel 16:7: “But the Lord said to Samuel, ‘Do not consider his appearance or his height, for I have rejected him. The Lord does not look at the things people look at. People look at the outward appearance, but the Lord looks at the heart.’”
Jesus Christ’s Role:
- Jesus fulfills the Law’s requirements and offers a new covenant that emphasizes internal transformation and a relationship with God over ritualistic practices.
Spiritual Reflection:
- How does understanding the Law’s purpose influence your faith practice? How does Jesus’ teaching on internal righteousness challenge you to live more fully in alignment with God’s will?