Romans: Introduction

1
Romans Introduction

• Letter resembles theological essay, lacking the
  specific problem-solving advice that
  characterizes most of Pauls letters
• Paul writes to a church of which he has no
  first-hand knowledge
• Much of the language is similar to Galatians with
  a focus on the problem of Judaism and Jewish
  Christianity

2
Romans 16

• Paul acquainted with quite a number of the
  believers in Rome
• Some think Rom 16 constitutes a separate letter
  of introduction for Phoebe, perhaps originally
  intended for Ephesus
• Rom 16 and the leadership of women Phoebe as
  deacon and benefactor Junia, the woman
  apostle. House churches.

3
Pauls Theology

• Romans 5 Justification, suffering, and hope.
  Reconciliation. Adam and Christ. Sin is
  multiplied through the Law solution, grace
  abounds.
• Romans 6 Dying to sin. Does being under grace
  mean that we should sin because we are no longer
  under law? The free gift of God is eternal life
  in Jesus Christ.

4
Pauls Theology

• Rom 7 Perhaps the most heavily debated text in
  the NT. Paul speaks uncharacteristically of his
  inner struggle with law and sin.
• Generally Pauls speaks negatively of the Law and
  his past life, in light of the surpassing glory
  of the Christ. The Solution came before the
  problem.

5
Pauls Theology

• Romans 8 Life in the Spirit, suffering, and
  cosmic renewal
• Romans 9-11 The rejection of Christ by the
  Jewish people and Pauls anguish election and
  the grandeur of God are the Jews still Gods
  chosen people?
• Gods plan for the universe