The Book of Romans

Romans is Paul’s fullest explanation of the gospel and its power to transform both individuals and communities. The teaching in this series explore Paul’s background, the purpose of the letter, and the tension-filled world of the Roman church — a divided, multi-ethnic congregation learning to live out the gospel together. With warmth and clarity, the session highlights Paul’s passion to preach Christ, his conviction that the gospel reveals God’s righteousness, and his confidence that this message is the power of God for salvation to everyone who believes. It invites listeners to approach Romans not as a textbook, but as a life-shaping proclamation of God’s rescue plan for the world.

This session walks through Paul’s argument in Romans 1:18–3:20, showing that all people—pagan, moral, and religious—fall short of God’s standard. The teaching traces themes like suppressing truth, the limits of moral effort, and the failure of the law to save. Paul’s conclusion is clear: humanity cannot fix its condition and needs a righteousness that comes from God.

Paul shifts from humanity’s problem to God’s solution in Romans 3:21–26. This session explains how God provides righteousness through faith in Jesus, rooted in the story of Scripture. The teaching explores redemption, propitiation, and how God remains just while declaring sinners righteous through Christ.

This session outlines what salvation includes: justification, sanctification, and glorification. The teaching explains how justification gives peace with God, access to grace, and hope in suffering. Paul’s repeated use of “therefore” shows how these truths shape the Christian life and confidence in God’s future work.

Paul turns to sanctification in Romans 6, describing how believers learn to walk in the new life God provides. This session explains the contrast between old habits and new identity, the call to present ourselves to God, and how the Spirit enables obedience.

Romans 7 highlights the struggle between desire and ability. This session explains why the law cannot produce righteousness and why human effort falls short. Paul’s description of inner conflict prepares the way for the hope found in Romans 8.

Romans 8 presents life in the Spirit. This session explains the difference between flesh and Spirit, the removal of condemnation, and the Spirit’s role in transformation and hope. It shows how God accomplishes in believers what the law could not.

This session examines Romans 9–11 and Paul’s teaching on Israel and the Gentiles. It explores election, mercy, Israel’s calling, and God’s ongoing faithfulness to His promises. The teaching shows how God’s plan includes all nations without abandoning Israel’s role in His story.

Romans 9 highlights God’s sovereignty and compassion. This session explains how God’s purposes stand even when people resist Him and how His mercy extends beyond Israel to the Gentiles.

Romans 12–13 describe the practical outworking of the gospel. This session explains presenting ourselves to God, using gifts within the church, living with Christian character, and relating to governing authorities. Love becomes the fulfillment of the law.

Romans 14–16 address tensions over personal convictions. This session explains how believers can welcome one another, avoid judging or pressuring others, and prioritize unity. Paul closes the letter with praise to God, tying together the themes of grace, mission, and faithfulness.