Epistle Preview: Romans
Congratulations! If you have been reading through the New Testament with us this year, today you have finished all of the Gospels and Acts—you are halfway to reading the entire New Testament!
Next we get into the epistles. Beginning with Romans and finishing with Jude, these 21 letters—inspired by the Holy Spirit—are full of fire and conviction, providing instruction and inspiration for a Spirit-filled, Spirit-lived life. As Paul writes in 2 Timothy 3:16-17,
Every Scripture has been written by the Holy Spirit, the breath of God. It will empower you by its instruction and correction, giving you the strength to take the right direction and lead you deeper into the path of godliness. Then you will be God’s servant, fully mature and perfectly prepared to fulfill any assignment God gives you.
Tomorrow, we begin the epistles written by Paul, starting with his longest letter—the letter to the Romans.
At a Glance
- Author: The apostle Paul
- Audience: The church at Rome
- Date: AD 55-57
- Major themes: The gospel, salvation, justification, God's righteousness
In Romans, you'll find that it is not your works or your religious efforts that "get you into heaven," but rather your simple belief in the good news of Jesus! All we must do is receive him, and then we are made holy and "fully accepted" (Romans 8:15). Romans is Pauls clearly-articulated exposition on the process of salvation through grace, and how the Gospel should affect our daily lives as Christians.
From Brian Simmons, the translator of the Passion Translation:
Do you want to be enriched and discover the heavenly treasures of faith, grace, true righteousness, and power? Plug into the book of Romans and you'll never feel the same again. Truth always sets the heart free, and nothing can free you more than the truth found in Romans. Grace and glory are waiting for you to unwrap and make your own. Live in the truths of Romans and watch how God's love sets you free!
Click here to read the Passion Translation's introduction on Romans.