THE GREATEST LETTER EVER WRITTEN #1 Romans: Introduction

"In a very basic sense, western civilization is a by-product of Paul's letter to the Romans. Nothing was written by man that had a greater impact on modern history.“ Dr. Richard Halverson Former Chaplain; U.S. Senate

"In a very basic sense, western civilization is a by-product of Paul's letter to the Romans. Nothing was written by man that had a greater impact on modern history.“

Dr. Richard Halverson

Former Chaplain; U.S. Senate

"The most profound writing in existence of all time." - Samuel Coleridge

"If a man understands Romans he has a sure road open to help him understand the entire Bible." - John Calvin

Five questions to ask when studying a Bible book: 1. Who wrote it? The Apostle Paul

“ I, Tertius, who wrote this epistle, greet you in the Lord.” Romans 16:22 (NKJV)

Unique man of 3 cultures: Jewish by race & religion Raised in Greek culture Politically, a Roman Citizen

Unique man of 3 cultures:

Jewish by race & religion

Raised in Greek culture

Politically, a Roman Citizen

“ Paul, a servant of Christ Jesus, called to be an apostle and set apart for the gospel of God.” Romans 1:1 (NIV)

Think About It: The only way to know what you have been “set apart” to do is have the courage to take the next step in your spiritual journey.

Five questions to ask when studying a Bible book: 1. Who wrote it? The Apostle Paul 2. To whom was it written? The church at Rome .

“ To all in Rome who are loved by God and called to be saints.” Romans 1:7 (NIV)

“… Your faith is spoken of throughout the whole world” Romans 1:8 (NKJV)

“ I long to see you so that I may impart to you some spiritual gift to make you strong… I do not want you to be unaware, brothers, that I planned many times to come to you (but have been prevented from doing so until now)...” Romans 1:11,13 (NIV)

Five questions to ask: 1. Who wrote it? The Apostle Paul To whom was it written? The church at Rome . 3. When & where was it written? In Corinth ; A.D. 57-58

Five questions to ask:

1. Who wrote it? The Apostle Paul

To whom was it written? The church at Rome .

3. When & where was it written? In Corinth ; A.D. 57-58

“ I commend to you our sister Phoebe, a servant of the church in Cenchrea .” Romans 16:1 (NIV)

Why was it written? To announce Paul’s intention to visit . “ Now at last by God’s will the way may be opened for me to come to you.” V.10 To give a highly detailed explanation of God’s amazing grace.

Why was it written?

To announce Paul’s intention to visit .

“ Now at last by God’s will the way may be opened for me to come to you.” V.10

To give a highly detailed explanation of God’s amazing grace.

“… I am so eager to preach the gospel also to you who are at Rome.” V.15

5. What's the main message? Salvation from wrath .

“… it [the gospel] is the power of God to salvation for everyone who believes…For the wrath of God is revealed from heaven against all ungodliness and unrighteousness of men…” Romans 1:16,18 (NKJV)

SALVATION IN THREE TENSES: PAST – saved from the eternal penalty of sin. PRESENT – saved from the power and control of sin in daily life. FUTURE – saved from the presence of sin in heaven; eternal reward given.

SALVATION IN THREE TENSES:

PAST – saved from the eternal penalty of sin.

PRESENT – saved from the power and control of sin in daily life.

FUTURE – saved from the presence of sin in heaven; eternal reward given.

Closing Application: Never underestimate the power of a letter . You have been “set apart” (given a mission) by God. Have you discovered it?

Closing Application:

Never underestimate the power of a letter .

You have been “set apart” (given a mission) by God. Have you discovered it?

NEXT WEEK: THE GREATEST LETTER EVER WRITTEN #2 “ Salvation From Wrath” Romans 1:18-32