Romans

Romans


What are the strengths and weaknesses of this church? This is a church Paul had never visited in person at the time he wrote this epistle. The tone of the letter is highly theological (universal in appeal ), but it seems there were issues in this mixed congregation of Jews and Gentiles. Pride seemed alive and well in both camps! Strengths were there too; this was a church favorably talked about over the known world and must have had members that were perceptive and able to grasp what Paul was saying. From Paul’s salutations, there were a lot of good people in this church. The church in Romans is mentioned in Acts 28: 14-30.

What is the main idea of this epistle? Romans 1:16-17 expresses the main idea Paul was striving to get across; "For I am not ashamed of this Good News about Christ. It is the power of God at work, saving everyone who believes–the Jew first and also the Gentile. This Good News tells us how God makes us right in His sight".

What does this epistle show about the character and nature of God? This epistle reveals, chapter after chapter, the mystery that angels and prophets and kings had been waiting for. This is, the New Covenant, the Kingdom within, that was never fully understood until now. Through Paul, God’s willingness and infinite patience with man to reason with him is shown on every page. Paul is reflecting God in this fatherly way. Could anyone have done a better job? While a mere man with fears and tremblings, Paul is the choice God made to reveal the long awaited approach to God.