Podcast: Interpreting Paul's Epistle to the Romans

In Romans 16:25-27, Paul closes out his presentation of the gospel of Jesus Christ with a packed benediction in which he reminds us of the letter’s purpose, topic, antecedent, scope and goal.

In Romans 16:1-24, Paul’s final greetings to the Romans give us a glimpse into the makeup of the 1st century community of believers.

In Romans 15:14-33, Paul begins the conclusion to the letter with a focus on his missional purpose, inviting the Romans to partner with him and giving us insight into his strategy as a pioneering missionary.

In Romans 15:1-13, Paul completes his exhortation to the Roman Christians to live out the gospel by accepting one another in Christ.

In Romans 14:13-23, Paul rounds out three principles for accepting one another in the midst of disagreement over issues of conscience: the principle of the master, the principle of faith and the principle of the stumbling block.

In Romans 14:1-12, we start Paul’s fifth application scenario with two principles that enable us to accept one another in spite of disagreement over issues of conscience.

In Romans 13:8-14, Paul’s fourth scenario addresses how to present yourself to God as you live out the gospel in society.

In Romans 13:1-7, Paul’s third scenario for living out the gospel of Jesus hits us where we live on all levels, while also raising significant, challenging questions about justice. 

In Romans 12:9-21, Paul’s second scenario for applying grace focuses on the Christian ethic of love, in the body of Christ, in general relationship and with others in society.

In Romans 12:3-8, Paul’s first scenario for applying grace is in regard to the new community of grace, where we challenges us to see ourselves with sound judgment as members of a body who have unique gifts to contribute.

In Romans 12:1-2, moving from explanation of the gospel to application, Paul provides a model for Christian living: respond, present, renew.

In Romans 11:25-36, Paul warns against any kind of ethnic or moral or spiritual prejudice as he affirms the impartiality of God and looks ahead to the future revival of Israel.

In Romans 11:11-24, Paul argues that while the current hardening of Israel against the gospel benefits the rest of the world, God has future plans for Israel.

In Romans 11:1-10, Paul reassures that, though the majority of Israel is hardened against the gospel of Jesus, God remains faithful to true Israel, the remnant comprised of Jewish believers who continue to walk in faith accepting the grace of Jesus Christ.

In Romans 10:12-21, Paul completes his argument that Israel has largely missed out on inclusion in the New Covenant people of God by stubborn refusal to accept God’s plan of salvation in the gospel of Jesus Christ.