BACKGROUND, THEME, AND ROMANS 1:1-17
As taught by Dave Lindstrom
I. Background: The letter of Romans was written by the Apostle Paul. It was written probably in the spring of 57 AD from Corinth toward the end of his third missionary journey. We know these facts from both the Bible and history working together.
A. Known historical facts:
1. Emporer Claudius reigned in Rome from 41-54 AD.
a. He ordered the Jews to leave Rome due to trouble around 49 AD.
b. Historian Suetonious (69 to 140 AD) writes the Jews left because of “disturbances of the instigation of Chrestus (Christ).”
c. Ambrosiaster (4th Century) writes that the church of Rome was not established by an apostle but by unnamed Hebrew Christians.
B. Known Biblical facts:
1. The Bible outlines the movements of Aquila and Priscilla (Acts 18:1-4, 18, 26; I Cor. 16:19; Romans 16:3).
2. The Bible outlines the movements of the Apostle Paul (Acts 18:12; 19:8-10; Romans 15:23-25).
II. Theme and Purpose: The Apostle Paul writes Romans to a predominantly Gentile church (Rom. 1:13) for the purpose of making the gospel and salvation clear (Rom. 1:16-17). While accomplishing his main theme, he wants to explain how Israel fits into God’s plan and how believing Jews ad Gentiles should now understand the Law and the Spirit.
III. Exegeting (drawing the meaning out) Romans 1:1-17
A. What Paul was set apart to be and say (v.1-7).
1. He was a servant “doulos” who belonged to another and sent “apostolas” by another (v.1).
2. His gospel was the good news “euangelion” of God. This gospel:
a. fulfills the promises of the prophesied Messiah (v.2)
b. is about Jesus Christ our Lord. He is 100% man and 100% God (I Cor. 15:1-3).
B. Paul explains why it has taken awhile to see them and encourages them as the apostle to the Gentiles (v.8-15).
C. This true gospel is amazing! (v.16-17)
1. It is the power (strength, might, ability) of God.
2. For those who believe (have faith in, receive it) it brings salvation (deliverance). Slavation (sozo) involves past (Eph. 2:8), present (2 Cor. 2:15), and future (Rom. 13:11) aspects.
3. In it, God’s righteousness (upright character, impartial judgments) is revealed.
4. The righteousness of God comes through faith in Jesus Christ (Rom. 3:22).
