Romanos Capítulo 1 - Lección 1

Introduction to the Epistle of Romans

Overview of the Study

• The speaker introduces a study on the longest epistle by Paul, written to the believers in Rome, emphasizing a verse-by-verse exploration.

• The aim is for God's word to renew and transform participants, helping them become more like Christ through this powerful letter.

Historical Context

• The Epistle was authored by Apostle Paul around 57 AD, focusing on the revelation of God's righteousness.

• A historical anecdote about Augustine highlights how reading Romans transformed his life in 386 AD when he felt distant from God.

Impact of Romans Through History

Key Transformative Moments

• Augustine recounts a pivotal moment where he read Romans 13:14-15, leading to a profound spiritual awakening.

• Martin Luther's study of Romans in 1515 emphasized its significance as "the most important part of the New Testament."

Notable Quotes and Perspectives

• John Calvin remarked that understanding this epistle opens up comprehension of all Scripture.

• Campbell Morgan described Romans as both pessimistic and optimistic literature, showcasing its dual nature.

Apostolic Insights on Paul's Letters

Apostolic Recognition

• Apostle Peter acknowledged Paul's letters as containing wisdom but noted some parts are difficult to understand (2 Peter 3:15-16).

Comprehensive Context

• The speaker emphasizes that Romans provides a complete context for understanding Jesus' gospel and encourages deep engagement with each chapter.

Beginning Chapter One: Greetings and Themes

Introduction to Chapter One

• Paul identifies himself as a servant called to be an apostle, set apart for God's gospel promised through prophets.

Core Themes Introduced

• The chapter discusses Jesus Christ's lineage from David and His declaration as Son of God through resurrection power.

Purpose and Audience

• Paul expresses gratitude for the faith of those in Rome, highlighting their widespread reputation among believers worldwide.

Paul’s Mission and Message

Desire for Connection

• Paul shares his longing to visit Rome to impart spiritual gifts that would strengthen mutual faith among believers.

Evangelical Commitment

• He declares his obligation to preach the gospel universally without shame because it embodies God's power for salvation (Romans 1:16).

The Revelation of God’s Righteousness

Central Thesis

• In the gospel, God's righteousness is revealed from faith for faith; it underscores living justly by faith (Romans 1:17).

This structured approach captures key insights while providing timestamps for easy reference.

Creation of the World and Human Accountability

The Nature of Humanity's Rejection of God

• Humanity can discern God's existence through creation, yet they fail to glorify Him or express gratitude, leading to their foolishness.

• Instead of honoring the incorruptible God, people worship corruptible images resembling humans and animals, resulting in divine judgment.

• God allows individuals to pursue shameful desires; women abandon natural relations for unnatural ones, while men engage in lustful acts with each other.

• Those who reject God are filled with various injustices and moral depravity, including envy, murder, deceit, and disobedience to parents.

• Despite knowing God's judgment on such behaviors, they not only commit these acts but also take pleasure in others who do the same.

Introduction to Paul's Letter to the Romans

Context and Purpose of the Epistle

• Theologians agree that Paul wrote Romans from Corinth during his third missionary journey; this is supported by references in Acts 20:2-3.

• At the time of writing, Paul had been preaching for about 20 years and was eager to visit Rome despite warnings about dangers awaiting him there.

• Paul’s letter serves as a comprehensive explanation of the Gospel for Christians in Rome whom he may not meet personally due to potential travel issues.

The Church in Rome

• The church likely formed from ordinary Christians rather than an apostolic figure like Paul; its establishment remains uncertain but significant nonetheless.

• Historical context reveals that Jews faced expulsion from Rome under Emperor Claudius (41–54 AD), impacting both Jewish and Gentile Christians significantly.

Historical Challenges Faced by Early Christians

Persecution and Martyrdom

• After receiving Paul's letter, early Christians faced persecution; historical accounts indicate they were scapegoated following a fire that destroyed parts of Rome.

• This environment set the stage for severe trials against Christians, including martyrdom for figures like Paul and Peter as tensions escalated within Roman society.

Understanding Biblical Salvation

The Need for Salvation

• Historical moments highlight the necessity and impact of Paul's epistle to the church in Rome, emphasizing its relevance.

Definition of Salvation

• Paul describes biblical salvation as "Liberation," derived from the Greek word "Sotera," which signifies safety and protection from harm.

The Path to Salvation

• Emphasizes that salvation is granted through God's grace via Jesus Christ, referencing Acts 4:12 and Romans 3:24, 3:25, and 5:8.

Two Aspects of Salvation

• Discusses two critical components of salvation:

• It is received by grace through faith in Christ (Romans 3:22-25).

• It is a gift from God, not based on works to prevent boasting (Ephesians 2:8).

Human Response in Salvation

• Highlights that while salvation is a divine gift, it requires human response—faith in Christ (Acts 16:31; Romans 1:17; Ephesians 1:15).

Stages of Salvation

Past Stage of Salvation

• The past stage involves forgiveness for sins committed before accepting Christ. Acknowledging this leads to new life in Him.

Present Stage of Salvation

• Involves being saved from the practice and dominion of sin today. The Holy Spirit empowers believers to overcome sin through His presence.

Future Hope in Salvation

• Encompasses redemption from future wrath and sharing in God's glory. Believers are assured a resurrected body and eternal life with God.

The Importance of Understanding Biblical Salvation

Distinction Between True and False Works

• Paul stresses understanding true biblical salvation versus worldly actions or thoughts. Encourages personal reflection on one's relationship with Jesus as Savior.

Invitation for Acceptance

• Invites those who have not accepted Jesus as their Savior to renew their covenant with Him, experiencing both present and future aspects of salvation.

Understanding the Letter to the Romans

The Focus of Paul's Epistle

• Paul’s letters, particularly to other churches, often emphasize church order and challenges. However, the letter to the Romans centers on God and His redemptive plan for humanity.

The Wrath of God

• Paul writes under the anointing of the Holy Spirit, emphasizing God's wrath due to human sinfulness that separates us from His presence.

• The Greek term for God's wrath is "org," representing an expression of His justice and love; it is a definitive attribute of God's character in response to human sin.

Stages of God's Wrath

• There are three stages of God's wrath:

• Past Wrath: Illustrated through historical events like floods and destruction found in the Old Testament.

• Present Wrath: God allows individuals to follow their corrupt desires leading to self-destruction (Romans 1:24, 26).

• Future Wrath: A coming judgment for those who practice evil without repentance.

Mercy Amidst Judgment

• Despite His wrath, God offers mercy through the Gospel, providing opportunities for repentance and grace (Romans 1:26-32).

Human Depravity and Accountability

• Paul discusses depravity among Gentiles and Christians alike; immorality leads many away from honoring God with their lives.

• Christian leaders can fall into sin when pride takes precedence over humility before God. This results in sexual immorality manifesting in their lives.

Warning Against Complacency

• Believers must guard themselves against lustful passions and remain vigilant against Satan's traps (as advised by Paul to Timothy).

The Consequences of Sinful Approval

• Paul warns that not only practicing sin but also approving or taking pleasure in others' sins leads to deeper depravity (Romans 1:32).

• This complacency reflects societal norms where people sympathize with or endorse sinful behaviors rather than feeling shame or sorrow over them.

By structuring these notes around key themes within Paul's letter, we gain insight into his theological arguments regarding sin, divine justice, mercy, and human responsibility.

Evangelio y Libertad del Pecado

La Búsqueda de la Redención

• El evangelio se presenta como un medio para que cada persona pueda liberarse del pecado, enfatizando la importancia de no caer en él.

• Se destaca que no debemos disfrutar del pecado ni complacernos con la maldad inherente al ser humano.

• La búsqueda activa de un Redentor y Salvador es fundamental para el bienestar espiritual y emocional.

• Se hace un llamado a declarar y confirmar en el corazón la fe en el Señor, lo cual es esencial para una vida libre de pecado.