Romans 1-3
Common Theme
Paul establishes humanity’s universal guilt before God. Both Gentiles and Jews stand accountable, and righteousness comes only from God, not human effort or heritage.
Questions
- How does seeing all people equally guilty before God shape the way you view grace.
- Where are you most tempted to rely on your own goodness rather than the righteousness God provides.
God Shot
God reveals Himself as utterly righteous in all His judgments. He also shows His heart as the One who provides the very righteousness He requires, making a way for guilty people to be made right with Him.
Deeper
Romans 1
In this passage, Paul introduces himself as a servant of Christ Jesus, called to be an apostle and set apart for the gospel of God, which was promised through the prophets. He emphasizes the significance of Jesus Christ, who was descended from David and declared the Son of God through his resurrection. Paul expresses gratitude for the faith of the Romans, which is known worldwide, and longs to visit them to share spiritual gifts and mutual encouragement. He feels obligated to preach the gospel to all, including the Romans. Paul asserts that he is unashamed of the gospel, as it is the power of God for salvation to everyone who believes. He warns of God’s wrath against ungodliness and unrighteousness, noting that people suppress the truth about God despite its clear revelation in creation. The passage describes the consequences of rejecting God, leading to dishonorable passions and a debased mind, resulting in various forms of unrighteousness and moral decay.
Romans 2
The text discusses God’s righteous judgment, emphasizing that those who judge others are often guilty of the same sins, thus condemning themselves. It highlights that God’s judgment is impartial and based on one’s actions, rewarding those who do good with eternal life while punishing the self-seeking with wrath. It asserts that merely hearing the law is insufficient; one must act on it to be justified. Gentiles who follow the law instinctively are seen as law-abiding, while Jews who rely on the law but fail to follow it dishonor God. True identity as a Jew is defined not by outward signs like circumcision, but by an inward transformation of the heart through the Spirit, with true praise coming from God rather than humans.
Romans 3
The text discusses the righteousness of God and the role of faith in salvation. It begins by addressing the advantages of being Jewish, emphasizing that Jews were entrusted with God’s oracles. Despite some being unfaithful, God’s faithfulness remains unchanged. The text asserts that all, both Jews and Greeks, are under sin and none are righteous. It highlights that the law reveals sin but cannot justify anyone. The righteousness of God is manifested through faith in Jesus Christ, available to all believers, regardless of their background. Justification comes as a gift of grace through faith, not by works. The text concludes that faith does not nullify the law but upholds it, affirming God’s unity in justifying both Jews and Gentiles.