Introduction to Romans

Background

• Paul’s letters are the earliest Christian writings, composed within 25 years of Jesus’ death.
• Romans (AD 56–58) is Paul’s longest and most theologically significant letter.
• Written from Corinth near the end of Paul’s Third Missionary Journey.
• Tertius served as Paul’s scribe (Rom 16:22).

Why Romans Matters

• Paul’s fullest explanation of the Gospel.
• Shaped Augustine, Luther, Wesley, and major Christian movements.
• Influential in evangelical theology, missions, revival, and Baptist doctrine.

Paul’s Purposes

• Strengthen believers (Rom 1:11–12).
• Prepare for mission to Spain (Rom 15:24).
• Correct misunderstandings about grace and the law (Rom 3:8; 6:1).
• Unite Jews and Gentiles (Rom 3:9; 4; 12:4–5; 11:18).
• Teach Christian citizenship (Rom 13:1–7).

Message of Romans

• All need the Gospel (Rom 1:18–3:20).
• Justification by faith (Rom 3:21–26).
• New life in Christ (Rom 6–8).
• God’s sovereign plan (Rom 9–11).
• Transformed living (Rom 12–15).

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The Letters of Paul, in Chronological Order

• Galatians AD 48-49
• 1 Thessalonians AD 50-51
• 2 Thessalonians AD 51-52
• 1 Corinthians AD 54-55
• 2 Corinthians AD 55-56
• Romans AD 56-57
• Ephesians AD 60-62
• Philippians AD 60-62
• Colossians AD 60-62
• Philemon AD 60-62
• 1 Timothy AD 62-64
• Titus AD 63-65

The Gospels in Chronological Order

• Mark AD 65-75
• Matthew AD 75-85
• Luke AD 80-95
• John AD 90-100