Lesson 1

AN INTRODUCTION TO THE BOOK OF ROMANS

I. The AUTHOR of this INSPIRED BOOK of Romans is PAUL

(Romans 1:1)

A. Paul was a bondservant of Jesus Christ, a slave possessed by the Lord.

Examine carefully Philippians 1:1. Paul considered himself NOT ONLY
a slave of the Lord, but also a slave of his brethren. He wanted to serve
them (II Corinthians 4:5).
B. Paul was called to be an apostle (Romans 1:1).
1. He was to be SENT OUT to the GENTILES (Acts 26:16-18)
2. He had a DEEP LOVE also for HIS BROTHERS, the JEWS!
(Romans 9:3; 10:1-3)
3. God had worked through Paul to win OBEDIENCE from the
GENTILES
(Romans 15:18)
C. Pauls GOSPEL did NOT COME from MAN, but through revelation
from the Lord (Galatians 1:11, 12).
D. Pauls BACKGROUND
1. He was born in TARSUS of Cilicia, but educated in Jerusalem
under Gamaliel (Acts 22:3). He was from the tribe of
Benjamin (Philippians 3:5)
2. He had been a very strict member of the sect of the Pharisees
(Philippians 3:5, 6; Acts 23:6; 26:5)
3. He felt that as a former persecutor of the church, he had been the
chief of sinners (I Timothy 1:12-15)
II. The PLACE and TIME OF WRITING of the BOOK OF ROMANS
A. It was written on the THIRD MISSIONARY JOURNEY of Paul
1. Paul was on the journey back to Jerusalem to take the CONTRIBUTION
for the needy Christians in Judea (Romans 15:25-27)
2. This is the SAME SPECIAL CONTRIBUTION mentioned in
I Corinthians 16:1-3, II Corinthians 8, 9, and Acts 24:17.
3. On his way to Jerusalem, he visited Troas and met with the church
(Acts 20:1-12). Read also Acts 19:21.

4. He wanted to go to JERUSALEM to deliver this contribution, visit the

ROMAN CONGREGATION and then go on to preach in SPAIN
(Romans 1:11-15; 15:22-29).
B. It was WRITTEN from the general area of the great city of CORINTH. Paul
introduced PHOEBE to the Roman church. She was from Cenchreae
near Corinth (Romans 16:1, 2).
C. It has been suggested that the book of ROMANS was written during the
year, A. D. 55.
III. The RECIPIENTS of the book of ROMANS
A. It is uncertain WHO began the work in ROME, and it is also uncertain
concerning WHEN the church began there. There were visitors from
ROME in the audience to whom Peter preached in Jerusalem on the day
of Pentecost (Acts 2:10).
B. There were BOTH JEWISH and GENTILE Christians in the church at
ROME
1. Christians were meeting in the HOUSE of Aquila and Priscilla
(Romans 16:3-5)
2. Some of the Christians were WEAK, and some were STRONG. All
were to recognize the background of their brothers, and receive
or welcome one another (Romans 14:1-15:7).
IV. The PURPOSE of the WRITING of the book of ROMANS
A. To ENCOURAGE these Christians in the life of a disciple. Read
Romans 1:11-15 and 15:15.
B. To talk to them about Pauls INTENDED VISIT to ROME
(Romans 15:24).
C. To SET BEFORE them a very LOGICAL PRESENTATION of the
GOSPEL, the power of God unto salvation (Romans 1:16)
NOTE: The book of Romans is one of the most important masterpieces
that has ever been written
V. A SHORT OUTLINE OF ROMANS
A. Salutation of Paul
B. Paul's Thanksgiving

(Romans 1:1 - 7)
(1:8 - 15)

C. The Thesis of the Book -- The GOSPEL is God's POWER

unto SALVATION for ALL!
(1:16, 17)
D. Universal Condemnation -- ALL HAVE SINNED and NEED the GOSPEL!
(1:18 - 3:20)
E. Justification By Faith -- Salvation is ONLY THROUGH CHRIST!
(3:21 - 5:21)
F. Sanctification -- Justification through Christ demands a HOLY LIFE!
(6:1 - 8:17)
G. Motivation -- What GREAT REASONS THERE ARE FOR ACCEPTING
THE GOSPEL!
(8:18 - 39)
H. Vindication -- Jehovah is RIGHT in what He has done through Christ!
(9:1 - 11:36)
I. Application -- Because of God's MERCIES, LIVE THIS WAY!
PRACTICAL LIVING! (12:1 - 15:13)
J. CONCLUSION

(15:14 - 16:27)
LESSON 2

THE POWER OF GOD UNTO SALVATION

(Romans 1:1 17)
I.

Paul's SALUTATION

(Romans 1:1 - 7)

A.

Paul spoke of HIMSELF as "SERVANT" and "APOSTLE"

God intervened in his life!

B.

He speaks of the GOSPEL, the theme of the book (1:1). The GOSPEL
which was PROMISED in the PROPHETS (1:2)

C.

He speaks of the SON OF GOD

1. Who became FLESH!

(1:1)

(1:3 - 6)

(1:3)

2. His RESURRECTION was a DECLARATION OF SONSHIP (1:4)

3. Paul's mission -- to bring about OBEDIENCE OF FAITH!
D.

(1:5)

He speaks of the RECIPIENTS (1:7). They were CALLED by the

GOSPEL TO BE "SAINTS." See also Philippians 1:1

II.

III.

Paul's THANKSGIVING
A.

FAITH -- He speaks of THEIR FAITH

B.

FELLOWSHIP -- He longs to be with them!

C.

FRUIT -- Paul wanted FRUIT among them also!

D.

FERVENCY -- Paul FELT A DEBT to PREACH CHRIST!

(1:8)
(1:9 - 12)
(1:13)
(1:14, 15)

The THESIS of the Book of Romans -- The GOSPEL IS THE "DYNAMITE OF

GOD UNTO SALVATION OF ALL! (1:16, 17). Paul will PROVE this
proposition throughout the book.
A.

"ASHAMED" -- A great STIGMA was attached to preaching salvation

through a CRUCIFIED JEW in the Roman Empire
(I Corinthians 1:18 - 25). Paul was NOT ASHAMED!

B.

The GOSPEL OF CHRIST! (1:16). The GOSPEL is "GOOD NEWS,"

WHAT GOD HAS DONE, IS DOING, AND WILL DO
THROUGH JESUS!

(1)
C.

(1:8 - 15)

(2)

(3)

(4)

(5)

Note the "GOOD NEWS" in which the Lord acted "FOR US!"
1.

He CAME TO EARTH FOR US! (John 6:38; 3:16)

2.

He DIED FOR US! (Romans 4:25) See also Titus 2:11 - 14.

3.

He was RAISED FOR US! (II Corinthians 5:15)

4.

He is at God's right hand INTERCEDING FOR US!

5.

He will COME AGAIN FOR US!

(Hebrews 9:28)

(Romans 8:34)

D.

To EVERY ONE "BELIEVING!" (1:16). The word "BELIEVETH" is a

CONTINUING PROCESS, not a one time act! It is an ACTIVE,
OBEDIENT TRUST!

E.

"To the Jews first . . . . " Not just in TIME, but also in PRIORITY! God used
the Jewish nation to bring about salvation. SALVATION IS OF THE
JEWS! (John 4:22)

F.

". . . . the RIGHTEOUSNESS OF GOD" (1:17). This is not talking about the
RIGHTEOUS ATTRIBUTE OF GOD, but rather the RIGHTEOUSNESS
THAT GOD WILL PROVIDE FOR MAN IN THE GOSPEL!
See Romans 3:21, 22; 10:1 - 3; Philippians 3:9.

G.

". . . . from FAITH TO FAITH" (1:17). This is literally "OUT OF FAITH

INTO FAITH." Righteousness comes from a system of faith and leads to
faith in man.

POSSIBLE DISCUSSION QUESTIONS:

1.

What principles do you see in Paul's feeling that he was a "DEBTOR" to

PREACH THE GOSPEL?

2.

Discuss what the word 'BELIEVETH" means to Paul.

3.

Discuss the EMOTIONS that "well up" in the Christian as he contemplates

what is MEANT BY THE "GOSPEL."
LESSON 3
SIN IS EVERYWHERE!
(Romans 1:18 - 3:20)

A PROPOSITION TO BE PROVED: ALL MEN NEED THE GOSPEL, FOR ALL MEN
ARE CONDEMNED UNDER SIN!
I.

The GENTILES are IN SIN!

(Romans 1:18 - 32)

A.

God's WRATH is poured out against ALL UNRIGHTEOUSNESS!

B.

God HAD REVEALED HIMSELF TO THE GENTILES!

C.

Therefore, they were LOST WITHOUT EXCUSE!

(1:20)

(1:18)

(1:19 -20)

D.

II.

III.

They SHOULD HAVE:

1.

GLORIFIED HIM AS GOD, and

2.

GIVEN THANKS!

(1:21)

But, DID NOT!

E.

They became FOOLISH, IMMORAL IDOLATORS!

F.

Therefore. GOD PERMITTED THEM to:

(1:22, 23)

1.

Go into SIN

(1:24, 26)

2.

Experience a REPROBATE MIND

3.

Experience a COMPLETE MORAL BREAKDOWN

The GOOD MORAL MAN IS IN SIN!

(1:28)
(1:29 - 32)

(whether Jew or Gentile)

(2:1 - 16)

A.

The MORAL MAN would CONDEMN the PAGAN, THAT IMMORAL

WRETCH! But this MORAL MAN IS ALSO WITHOUT EXCUSE!
(2:1)

B.

He is also be JUDGED RIGHTEOUSLY!

C.

God's GOODNESS should lead to REPENTANCE!

D.

The Lord will JUDGE BY MAN'S WORKS!

E.

He is NOT PARTIAL!

F.

Those who sinned OUTSIDE A WRITTEN LAW WILL PERISH OUTSIDE

OF THAT LAW!
(2:12)
And, those who sinned UNDER THE
LAW WILL BE JUDGED BY THE LAW!

The JEW IS ALSO LOST!

(2:2, 3)
(2:4)

(2:5 - 10)

(2:11)

(2:17 - 3:8)

A.

The JEW approved the excellent things of the LAW!

(2:17 - 20)

B.

The JEW must also INSTRUCT HIMSELF! "Thou that

teaches another." (2:21 - 24)

C.

Therefore, the JEW caused God's name to be BLASPHEMED

AMONG THE GENTILES (2:24)

D.

The TRUE JEW is not the one with outward CIRCUMCISION, but
rather with the CIRCUMCISION OF THE HEART! (2:28, 29)

IV.

E.

It is true that the JEWS DID HAVE AN ADVANTAGE -- They were

ENTRUSTED WITH GOD'S WORD -- the ORACLES OF GOD!
(3:1)

F.

They were UNFAITHFUL TO THEIR TRUST, BUT GOD WILL BE

FAITHFUL! (3:3, 4)

The CONCLUSION is that ALL MEN ARE IN SIN!

(3:9 - 20)

A.

In spite of the ADVANTAGE of the JEW, they are no better!

ALL ARE UNDER SIN! (3:9)

B.

A SERIES OF SCRIPTURES:
1.

"None righteous, NO NOT ONE!

2. Their throat an open sepulchre

3.

No fear of God

(3:18)

(3:10)
(3:13)

See Psalm 14:3

See Psalm 5:9

See Psalm 36:1

C.

Every mouth is STOPPED! There is NO EXCUSE!

(3:19)

D.

LAW CANNOT JUSTIFY! BUT, LAW DOES BRING THE

KNOWLEDGE OF SIN! (3:20)

SUGGESTED DISCUSSION QUESTIONS:

1.

What is your reaction to the statement that "OUR WORLD IS LOST

OUTSIDE OF CHRIST?"

2.

Is it true that WE ARE WRONG BEFORE GOD, when, even though WE

MAY NOT PRACTICE IMMORALITY, WE "GO ALONG" WITH IT?
(Romans 1:32)

3.

Please discuss the TYPE OF LAW UNDER WHICH THE GENTILES

LIVED when their CONSCIENCE either EXCUSED or ACCUSED
THEM
(Romans 2:12 - 16)
LESSON 4
SAVED BY GRACE!
(Romans 3:21 31)

NOTE:

ALL MEN ARE UNDER SIN, and NEED SALVATION! See Romans 3:9 - 20.
The Father has PROVIDED THE MEANS FOR SALVATION THROUGH
HIS GRACE! (Romans 3:21 - 31)

I.

II.

III.

The NATURE OF "JUSTIFICATION"

(Romans 3:21 - 25a)

A.

It is "apart from," DISTINCT FROM A "LAW OF WORKS" (3:21)

This would include distinction from the "Law of Moses!" See below.

B.

"Righteousness of God" is the "righteousness" PROVIDED BY GOD!

This is seen in Romans 10:1 - 3; Philippians 3:9. (3:21, 22)

C.

The "Law and Prophets" foretold of SALVATION THROUGH CHRIST!

See Luke 24:44.

D.

This "righteousness" is for ALL, JEW AND GREEK, through FAITH IN

CHRIST!
(3:22). All have sinned! (3:23)

E.

We are "JUSTIFIED" (declared innocent), we are forgiven, on the basis of

GOD'S GRACE, HIS FAVOR WHICH WE DO NOT DESERVE!
(3:24). "Freely" means "without a cause." See John 15:25
where the same word is used.

F.

God showed His "undeserved favor" (grace) by providing REDEMPTION

(release, freedom from sin) through CHRIST!

G.

JESUS is the "propitiation" (means of forgiveness) provided by

God! (3:25). The word "propitiate" also means to "pacify"
one who has WRATH! See I John 2:1, 2.

The NATURE OF GOD in providing JUSTIFICATION (Acquittal)

(3:25b, 26)

A.

NOTE: God's WRATH can only be pacified THROUGH JESUS' BLOOD!

(3:25)

B.

The JUSTICE OF GOD DEMANDS THAT SIN BE PUNISHED! God IS

JUST! HOW? By making Jesus the substitute for our punishment.
Note: God's demand that sin be punished, HIS JUSTICE, cannot be
overridden by HIS MERCY! JUSTICE MUST BE MET! Sin must
be punished! Jesus became the SIN OFFERING!
(II Corinthians 5:21)

C.

THUS, GOD IS "JUST," and the "JUSTIFIER" of the ones who

have FAITH IN JESUS!
(3:26)

The NATURE of the LAW OF FAITH!

A.

The Nature of a Law of Works

1. A Law of Works is a binding code of regulations WHERE ONE
VIOLATION CONDEMNS
2.

Under this kind of law, one SEEKS TO EARN HIS BLESSINGS

3.

In order to be "justified," HE MUST KEEP EVERY

LAW PERFECTLY, for ONE VIOLATION CONDEMNS
(Galatians 3:10, 11)

4. Thus, YOU GET "WHAT YOU EARN!"

B.

The Nature of a Law of Faith

1. A Law of Faith is a binding code of regulations WHERE DIVINE
INTERVENTION HAS MADE PROVISION FOR FORGIVENESS
ON THE BASIS OF OBEDIENT TRUST.

C.

2.

Here, SALVATION IS A GIFT! IT IS NOT DESERVED! IT IS NOT

EARNED! (Romans 6:23)

3.

God would "OWE US" under a "SALARY" SYSTEM!

NOTE: If it is of "WORKS" (where we earn it), IT IS OF "DEBT!"
(Romans 4:4)

NOTE: "BOASTING IS EXCLUDED!" (3:27). We have no right to

BOAST! WHY? A "LAW OF FAITH" IS AT WORK, NOT A
"LAW OF WORKS!"

D.

Please NOTE: Under the gospel, GOD DOES NOT "THROW AWAY
LAW!" God is a GIVER OF LAW! HE IS A LOVER OF LAW!
He teaches us to OBEY HIS LAWS WITH EVERY FIBRE OF
OUR
BEING!
(3:31). We OBEY HIS LAW, but, when we
BREAK HIS
LAW, the BLOOD OF JESUS IS THE MEANS OF
FORGIVENESS!
(3:31)
POSSIBLE DISCUSSION QUESTIONS:
1.

Discuss how God's JUSTICE, (which demands punishment for sin), and
His MERCY (which desires to forgive) are BLENDED TOGETHER
BEAUTIFULLY in the GOSPEL.

2.

Show in detail the CLEAR DISTINCTION between a "Law of Works" (principle of

works) and "Law of Faith" (principle of faith).

3.

Is OBEDIENCE A PART OF THE "LAW OF FAITH?" Show the difference

between "WORKS OF BOASTING" and OBEDIENCE.

LESSON 5
ABRAHAM -- SAVED BY GRACE THROUGH FAITH!
(Romans 4:1 25)
PLEASE NOTE: ALL MEN ARE IN SIN! (Romans 3:9 - 20). God's GRACE
PROVIDES SALVATION THROUGH CHRIST'S BLOOD UNDER THE
PRINCIPLE OF "FAITH," NOT A LAW OF "WORKS!" (3:21 - 27)
Now, Paul will show that ABRAHAM WAS JUSTIFIED UNDER THIS
PRINCIPLE OF "FAITH" SEPARATE FROM THE LAW OF
MOSES, AND BEFORE ABRAHAM RECEIVED THE COVENANT
OF CIRCUMCISION! (4:1 - 25). Please note OUTLINE
OF ROMANS.
I.

II.

ABRAHAM was declared RIGHTEOUS under the "LAW OF FAITH"

(Principle of FAITH) (Romans 4:1 - 8)
A.

If he had been "justified" (declared righteous) because of his "works" which

MERITED SALVATION, he could have BOASTED! (4:2)

B.

BUT, his FAITH was "reckoned" (counted) for RIGHTEOUSNESS! (4:3)

NOTE Genesis 15:6 HIS FAITH WAS THE CONDITION "IN
ORDER TO" HIS RELEASE FROM SIN!

C.

See the CRUCIAL POINT: In a "LAW OF WORKS," REWARD is not

based on GRACE (UNMERITED FAVOR), but on DEBT! (4:4)

D.

The one to whom GOD DOES NOT "IMPUTE" SIN IS THE ONE WHO IS
FORGIVEN! (See 4:6, 7). (See also Psalm 32:1, 2)

E.

Please note again: The one who "works" is the one who tries to EARN
HIS SALVATION! IT CANNOT BE DONE! (4:5)

ABRAHAM was "JUSTIFIED" (declared righteous) BEFORE THE

COVENANT OF CIRCUMCISION! (Romans 4:9 - 12)
A.

His FAITH was "reckoned" for righteousness WHILE HE WAS IN

"UN-CIRCUMCISION!" (4:9, 10)

B.

NOTE: About 14 years before he received the command of

CIRCUMCISION, he was declared righteous by God!
and 17)

Genesis 15:6
Righteous

Genesis 17
Circumcision

Mount
Sinai

(Genesis 15

The
LAW

C.
III.

IV.

ABRAHAM is the "father" of ALL WHO ARE JUSTIFIED BY THE LAW

OF FAITH!" (4:11, 12)

ABRAHAM was NOT "JUSTIFIED" (declared righteous) by a "LAW OF

WORKS!" (4:13 - 17)
A.

Through "FAITH," not 'LAW," he was "HEIR OF THE WORLD!"

(4:13) See Genesis 12:1 -3 ("bless all nations")

B.

The "PROMISE" to ABRAHAM was NOT through the "Law," but through
"faith" (4:14) (Read Galatians 3:17)

C.

The "LAW" brought WRATH (condemned)

is law, there is sin!

D.

A CONCISE STATEMENT: The PROMISE of SALVATION is through

"FAITH" so that it may be of "GRACE," (favor that is not
deserved) (4:16) THIS IS SUCH A VITAL POINT!

The KIND OF FAITH ABRAHAM HAD

(4:15)

FOR, where there

(4:18 - 25)

A.

He BELIEVED GOD IN SPITE OF ADVERSE SITUATIONS!

B.

He BELIEVED GOD WITHOUT WAVERING!

(4:20)

C.

He BELIEVED GOD IN FULL ASSURANCE!

(4:21)

D.

The RESULT OF THIS KIND OF FAITH : He was DECLARED

RIGHTEOUS! (4:22)

A CONCLUSION:

This is WRITTEN FOR OUR SAKE!

(4:18, 19)

(4:23 - 25)

POSSIBLE DISCUSSION QUESTIONS:

1.

Please discuss the fact that the teaching of "FAITH ALONE" is foreign to Paul's
discussion here in Romans 4.

2.

Show a HARMONY in what Paul says here, and what James discusses in James
2:21 - 24.

3.

Be certain that there is a CLEAR DISTINCTION between a "Law of Works"

where blessing is MERITED OR DESRVED, and a "law of Faith"

where
TRUSTING IN GOD'S GIFT WILL LEAD TO OBEDIENCE ("Trust and
Obey").

LESSON 6
THE BLESSINGS OF JUSTIFICATION
(Romans 5:1 21)
PLEASE NOTE:

I.

1.

Sin is EVERYWHERE!

(Romans 1:18 - 3:20)

2.

We are "JUSTIFIED" (declared righteous) by GOD'S GRACE through the

BLOOD OF CHRIST!
(3:21 - 26)

3.

Our JUSTIFICATION is through the "PRINCIPLE OF FAITH" in which

there is NO BOASTING, for God's GRACE IS UNEARNED AND
UNMERITED
(3:27 - 31)

4.

ABRAHAM, God's FRIEND, was "JUSTIFIED" by a "LAW of FAITH"

(4:1 - 25)

THE WONDERFUL BLESSINGS of Justification

A.

PEACE WITH GOD!

(5:1 - 11)

(5:1)

1. This PEACE comes "out of " FAITH (This is the Greek Text)
2. Again, being RIGHT WITH GOD comes "THROUGH" Christ!
3.
B.

PEACE is based on "RECONCILIATION" with GOD! Please see

Romans 5:11 and Colossians 1:20 - 22.

REJOICING!
1.

(5:2 - 4)

PEACE and JOY are "TWIN" BLESSINGS! Someone said, "Peace is

joy resting, and joy is peace dancing."

2. There is JOY because we share in HOPE OF THE GLORY OF GOD!

(5:2)
3. Yes, there will be SUFFERING! BUT, SUFFERING WILL PRODUCE
STEADFASTNESS, and STEADFASTNESS WILL BRING
APPROVEDNESS and HOPE
(5:3, 4)
4.
C.

"REJOICE IN GOD" FOR we are RECONCILED TO HIM!

HOPE!
1.

(5:11)

(5:5 - 11)

HOPE of the Christian will be REALIZED! It will NOT DISAPPOINT

US!

(5:5). It comes out of GOD'S LOVE!

2. The HOLY SPIRIT is the PLEDGE OF GLORY!

II Corinthians 1:21, 22

(5:5) See also

3. GOD'S LOVE IS SEEN in that WHILE WE WERE SINNERS, CHRIST

DIED FOR THE UNGODLY!
(5:6 - 8)

II.

a.

One would scarcely die for a JUST MAN!

b.

Perhaps, for a GOOD BENEVOLENT MAN, one would die!

c.

CHRIST DIED FOR THE UNGODLY!

4.

REMEMBER! We are SAVED BY HIS BLOOD! (5:9)

5.

BUT ALSO BY HIS RESURRECTED LIFE!

REJOICE! (5:11)

(5:10). Therefore,

The CONSEQUENCES brought by THE SIN OF ADAM are OVERCOME

IN THE GIFT OF CHRIST! (5:12 - 21)
A.

SIN came into the WORLD THROUGH ONE MAN, and PHYSICAL
DEATH WAS THE CONSEQUENCE! (5:12) See
I Corinthians 15:21, 22

B.

"All sinned" does not mean that we sinned personally when Adam sinned,
but rather representatively. See Hebrews 7:9, 10 where LEVI paid
tithes "through" his ancestor ABRAHAM.

C.

See the CONTRAST in ADAM and CHRIST!

1. Through ADAM'S SIN, MANY SUFFERED!
2. Through ONE ACT OF CHRIST, many MAY BECOME RIGHTEOUS!
(5:15 - 19)

D.

Where SIN ABOUNDED, the GRACE OF GOD DID MUCH MORE

ABOUND! (5:20, 21)

POSSIBLE DISCUSSION QUESTIONS:

1.

Because the CHRISTIAN has the BEAUTIFUL BLESSINGS discussed by Paul,

please discuss the ATTITUDE we should have toward the LORD, our
ATTITUDE toward PROBLEMS OF LIFE, our ATTITUDE toward
OTHERS, etc See Romans 5:3, 4

2.

Discuss JESUS' ATTITUDE toward SINNERS. See 5:8 and other passages which
point out the relationship of Jesus to 'PUBLICANS ANS SINNERS."
(Luke 15:1, 2 etc.)

3.

Discuss HOW "ALL SIN" in Adam. In what sense?

4.

What is the difference in a RIGHTEOUS MAN, and a GOOD MAN?

(5:12)

LESSON 7
THE CHRISTIAN IS "DEAD TO SIN"
(Romans 6:1 23)
PLEASE NOTE: After Paul has pointed out (1) The Universal problem of sin
(1:18 - 3:20), and (2) Salvation by God's Grace, and the Blessings Christians
receive (3:21 - 5:21), he NOW TURNS TO THE HOLY LIFE THEY SHOULD
LIVE! (Romans 6:1 - 8:17).
I.

BECAUSE OF THE CHRISTIAN'S RESPONSE AT BAPTISM, HE WILL BE

HOLY! (Romans 6:1 - 14)
A.

NOTE: When SIN ABOUNDED, GOD'S GRACE ABOUNDED YET

MORE! (5:20, 21). The logical question is: "Well, should I not
sin SOME MORE, so that I can obtain MORE GRACE?" (6:1)

B.

NO!

C.

Having "DIED," you were "BURIED" in BAPTISM, and then

"RAISED" to WALK A NEW LIFE!
(6:4) See Colossians 2:12

D.

Our OLD SINFUL LIFE WAS "CRUCIFIED," and we are NO LONGER

TO BE A "SLAVE OF SIN!" (6:6)

E.

We "DIED" to our FORMER LIFE, and were RELEASED FROM ITS

POWER (6:7)

F.

If we "DIED" with Christ, we shall also "LIVE WITH HIM" (6:8)

G.

We are "DEAD TO SIN" and "ALIVE TO GOD!"

(6:11)

H.

THEREFORE, do NOT let sin reign in your body!

(6:13)

I.

You are NOT UNDER A SYSTEM OF LAW, BUT RATHER GRACE! If

UNDER LAW, SIN WOULD ENSLAVE US!
(6:14)

NO! You "DIED TO SIN" when you were BAPTIZED INTO

CHRIST AND INTO HIS DEATH! (6:2, 3) See Galatians 3:27

II.

BECAUSE OF A CHANGE OF MASTERS, THE CHRISTIAN WILL BE HOLY!

(6:15 - 19)
A.

NOTE: GRACE DOES NOT GIVE US FREEDOM TO LIVE IN SIN!

(6:15)

B.

We are SLAVES OF THE ONE WE OBEY!

(6:16 - 18)

1. We can be a SLAVE OF SIN which brings DEATH! OR,

2.

OBEDIENCE which leads to RIGHTEOUSNESS

(6:16)

3.

BUT, CHRISTIANS HAVE OBEYED THAT "FORM" OF DOCTRINE

and were made FREE FROM SIN!(6:17, 18). The "FORM" or
"MOLD" or "TYPE" of doctrine, would be our DEATH,
BURIAL, AND RESURRECTION (6:1 - 5)

4. To be "FREED FROM SIN" would mean FREE FROM SIN'S

(1) GUILT, and (2) DOMINATION!
5.
III.

Christians become VOLUNTARY SLAVES OF RIGHTEOUSNESS!

NOTE: This leads to SANCTIFICATION!
(6:19)

WAGES VERSUS GIFT!

(6:20 - 23)

A.

When men are SERVANTS OF SIN, they have NO OBLIGATION TO

RIGHTEOUSNESS! (6:20)

B.

What BENEFIT came to you when you were SERVANTS OF SIN?

ABSOLUTELY NONE! NONE! (6:21) The END WAS DEATH!

C.

Since FREE FROM SIN, your "FRUIT" (BENEFIT you reap) leads to
HOLINESS, and the end is ETERNAL LIFE! (6:22)

D.

The WAGE (Salary) which SIN WILL PAY AS A MERITED or

DESERVED RESULT is DEATH!

E.

BUT, the GIFT WHICH GOD GIVES THROUGH CHRIST IS ETERNAL

LIFE! (6:23). NOTE again the contrast between a WAGE, WHICH
IS MERITED, AND A GIFT WHICH IS NOT DESERVED!

POSSIBLE DISCUSSION QUESTIONS:

1.

Discuss the beautiful likeness of JESUS' DEATH, BURIAL, AND

RESURRECTION, and our BURIAL IN BAPTISM, AND NEWNESS OF
LIFE (6:1 - 5)

2.

Make a CLEAR DISTINCTION between being "UNDER LAW" and "UNDER

GRACE."
3.

How is a PURE, HOLY LIFE DEMANDED BY OUR BAPTISM?

LESSON 8
THE CHRISTIAN AND LAW
(Romans 7:1 25)

PLEASE NOTE: The Christian is one who has (1) DIED TO SIN, (2) been BURIED IN
BAPTISM, and (3) RAISED TO A NEW LIFE (6:1 - 4), He NO LONGER IS A
SLAVE OF SIN, but is a SERVANT OF RIGHTEOUSNESS! (6:5 - 23). Now,
Paul will discuss the Christian's relationship to LAW, and will deal specifically with
the LAW OF MOSES
(7:1 - 25)
I.

The CHRISTIAN is "DEAD" to the Law!

(Romans 7:1 - 6)

A.

(7:1 - 4)

The MARRIAGE ILLUSTRATION

1. The WOMAN is bound to her HUSBAND while he lives!

If the HUSBAND DIES, SHE IS FREE FROM HIM, AND MAY BE
MARRIED TO ANOTHER! If he is ALIVE, and she is UNITED
TO ANOTHER, SHE IS AN ADULTERESS!
(7:1 - 3)
2. Through Jesus' SACRIFICE, the BRETHREN IN CHRIST were
"DEAD TO THE LAW" so as to be JOINED TO CHRIST!
(7:4)
3. They will now BRING FORTH FRUIT TO GOD!
2:10)

II.

(See Ephesians

B.

When in SIN, THE SINFUL DESIRES BROUGHT FORTH FRUIT

UNTO DEATH!
(7:5)

C.

Now, IN CHRIST, Christians are DISCHARGED FROM THE LAW!

NOTE: WHAT LAW IS DISCUSSED HERE? (7:6).
See 7:7 and also the DISCUSSION QUESTIONS.

SIN IS THE PROBLEM -- NOT THE LAW!

A.

(7:7 - 13)

The LAW REVEALED SIN, MADE IT KNOWN, MANIFESTED IT! (7:7)

1.

Paul would not have known about the sin of COVETING except that the
law had said, "DO NOT COVET!"

2.

Note also the same thought in Romans 3:20

III.

B.

SIN IS PERSONIFIED! Sin found a "base of military operation" IN

PAUL, and produced "wrong desires" (Coveting) (7:8)

C.

Paul was ALIVE, APART FROM LAW ONCE, but WHEN THE
COMMANDMENT CAME IN, SIN SPRANG UP! Was this
speaking of Paul's INNOCENT CHILDHOOD?
(7:9)

D.

The LAW itself was HOLY, RIGHTEOUS, AND GOOD!

SIN IS THE PROBLEM!

(7:12).

E.

The LAW showed SIN TO BE EXCEEDINGLY SINFUL!

(7:13)

The GREAT STRUGGLE WITHIN MAN

(7:14 - 25)

A.

Paul knew what it meant for the LAW OF HIS MIND to pull him in the
direction of GOOD, and the LAW OF SIN TO PULL HIM TOWARD
EVIL!

B.

The LAW WAS SPIRITUAL, but MAN IS SINFUL!

C.

Our INNER SELF does not want to do wrong! But, there is a strong
TEMPTING POWER FOR US TO GIVE IN TO THE
TEMPTATION! (7:15--25). "OUR PRACTICES ARE
DIFFERENT FROM OUR CHOICES!"

D.

When the CONSCIENCE CONDEMNED FOR NOT KEEPING THE LAW,

this TESTIFIES THAT THE LAW IS GOOD! (7:16)

E.

SIN IS THE REAL CULPRIT!

F.

The INNER MAN DELIGHTS IN THE LAW OF GOD!(7:22)

G.

The PRESSURES FROM CARNAL APPETITES ARE PULLING AT MAN

TO DO EVIL! "Oh, well, GO AHEAD AND DO IT!
(7:23)

H.

Therefore, there is a WRETCHEDNESS! (7:24)

I.

The VICTORY IS THROUGH CHRIST!

(7:14)

(7:17, 20)

(7:25)

SUGGESTED DISCUSSION QUESTIONS:

1.

Are the TEN COMMANDMENTS included in the LAW FROM WHICH "WE
ARE DISCHARGED?" (7:4 - 7)

2.

The LAW OF MOSES was HOLY, AND RIGHTEOUS, AND GOOD

(7:12).
What were ITS PURPOSES? Why, then, are WE NOT UNDER IT?

3.

What is the "LAW OF SIN AND DEATH" that pulls at us?

LESSON 9
"FLESH" AND "SPIRIT"
(Romans 8: 1 17)

PLEASE NOTE: We have already noted the (1) Universality of sin (1:18 - 3:20),
and (2) Justification through Christ as an UNDESERVED FAVOR (3:21 - 5:21).
In this section, Paul is discussing the HOLINESS OF LIFE demanded by our
OBEDIENCE TO THE GOSPEL (6:1 - 8:17). Now, WE MUST WALK
ACCORDING TO THE "SPIRIT," NOT THE "FLESH!"
(8:1 - 17)
I.

Christians are FREE form the "LAW OF SIN AND DEATH!"

(8:1 - 4)

A.

If we are "IN CHRIST," there is NO CONDEMNATION!

B.

"IN Christ" there is:

(8:1)

Forgiveness
(Ephesians 1:7)
Salvation
(II Timothy 2:10)

NOTE:

Eternal Life
(I John 5:11, 12)

We are "BAPTIZED INTO

CHRIST"
(Romans 6:3; Galatians 3:27)

C.

The LAW of the SPIRIT which BRINGS LIFE has made us "FREE" FROM
THE RULE OF SIN AND DEATH! (8:2)

D.

The LAW OF MOSES, because of the WEAKNESS OF THE FLESH, could

NOT make men FREE! JESUS CAN!
(8:3)

E.

THREE "LAWS" under consideration:

1. The "Law" of SIN AND DEATH, the "RULE of Sin, the TYRANNY,
THE BONDAGE OF SIN! See 7:23.
2. The LAW OF MOSES
3. The LAW OF THE "SPIRIT OF LIFE IN CHRIST JESUS!"

II.

Christians LIVE according to the "SPIRIT," not the "FLESH!"

A.

(8:5 - 17)

"WALKING" after the "SPIRIT" is WALKING ACCORDING TO HIS

WILL!

B.

"WALKING" after the "FLESH" is WALKING ACCORDING TO THE

CARNAL, UNREGENERATE LIFE OF THE SINNER, following
SINFUL DESIRES!

C.

To WALK AFTER THE "FLESH" IS:

1.

DEATH! (8:6)

See Ephesians 2:1

2.

"ENMITY" with God, and CANNOT PLEASE GOD!

3.

NOT TO HAVE THE SPIRIT OF GOD!

(8:7, 8)

(8:9)

D.

Note the INDWELLING OF THE SPIRIT as an "EARNEST" of the

Christian's inheritance (Acts 2:38; 5:32; Ephesians 1;13, 14;
I Corinthians 3:16; 6:19; Galatians 4:6).

E.

If CHRIST IS IN US, the OLD SINFUL LILFE, BODY, IS PUT TO

DEATH! (8:10). See 6:1 - 6

F.

The HOLY SPIRIT:

1. Will participate in the RESURRECTION

(8:11)

2.

"By the Spirit" Christians overcome SINFUL DESIRES!

See below

3.

LEADS!

(8:13)

(8:14)

4. TESTIFIES concerning God's CHILDREN! (8:16)

G.

SUMMARY:

Therefore, the Christian MUST TURN FROM A CARNAL LIFE!

(8:12, 13)

1. We are "ADOPTED SONS" who have not yet entered into our
INHERITANCE
(8:15 17)
2.

SUFFERING is necessary before GLORIFICATION!

(8:17)

POSSIBLE DISCUSSION QUESTIONS:

1.

The SPIRIT HELPS US "PUT TO DEATH THE DEEDS OF THE BODY,"

"LEADS" US, etc.. Discuss HOW THE SPIRITS DOES THIS, THROUGH
HIS REVELATION IN THE WORD, etc

2.

In WHAT WAY WAS THE LAW OF MOSES "WEAK?"

3.

Discuss the BLESSINGS of being "IN CHRIST."

(8:3)

LESSON 10
MOTIVATION FOR SERVICE
(Romans 8:18 39)
PLEASE NOTE: the apostle Paul has spoken of : (1) SIN, THE UNIVERSAL
PROBLEM, (2) CHRIST, the means of FORGIVENESS!, (3) The MEANING
OF SALVATION BY GRACE THROUGH FAITH (See Romans 4, 5), (4) and,
the HOLINESS OF LIFE THAT IS DEMANDED BY OUR OBEDIENCE TO
CHRIST (6:1 - 8:17). Now, WHAT IS THE MOTIVATION THAT LEADS
US TO COMMITTED DISCIPLESHIP? WHY SERVE?
WHY? See Romans
8:18 - 39.
I.

BECAUSE GLORY IS COMING!

(Romans 8:18 - 30)

A.

The SUFFERING WE DO NOW cannot be compared to the GLORY

APPROACHING! (8:18) (See II Corinthians 4:16)

B.

The whole CREATION LIES IN FRUSTRATION AND PAIN!

The BONDAGE OF CORRUPTION!

C.

Even CHRISTIANS GROAN, WAITING FOR THE REDEMPTION OF

THE BODY! (8:23). Even they who have the "First-fruits of the
Spirit!"

D.

Our HOPE is STILL BEFORE US, OUR HOPE IS NOT YET REALIZED,
FOR HOPE REALIZED IS NO LONGER HOPE!
(8:24,

(8:19 - 22)

25).
Hope produces STEADFASTNESS!
E.

(II Timothy 1:12)

The LORD PROVIDES and GIVES ASSURANCE!

1.

Jehovah-Jireh (The Lord sees and PROVIDES!)

"PROVIDE-ENCE" = Providence!

(8:26 - 30)
(Genesis 22:14)

2. The SPIRIT INTERCEDES AND SENDS THE CHRISTIAN'S

PRAYERS UPWARD when we have "agonizing longings" not
adequately expressed (8:26, 27)
3.

God will MAKE ALL THINGS WORK FOR OUR GOOD WHEN WE
LOVE HIM! (8:28). NOTE: We are "CALLED" by the GOSPEL!
(II Thessalonians 2:14)

4.

God's PURPOSEHAS BEEN REALIZED! (8:29, 30). He

"FOREKNEW," "PREDESTINED," "CALLED," etc
(See DISCUSSION QUESTION)

II.

BECAUSE of OUR TRIUMPH THROUGH GOD'S LOVE!

(8:31 - 39)

A.

IF GOD BE ON OUR SIDE, WHO CAN BE AGAINST US?

(8:31)

B.

HE GAVE US HIS SON -- WILL HE NOT PROVIDE ALL THAT WE

NEED? (8:32)

C.

Who can act AS A PROSECUTOR TO CONDEMN THE CHOSEN OF

GOD? God JUSTIFIES! (8:33, 34)

D.

PLEASE NOTE: The BEAUTIFUL SUMMARY OF THE GOSPEL -JESUS' DEATH, RESURRECTION, REIGN AT GOD'S RIGHT
HAND! (8:34)

E.

Notice that JESUS LIVES TO MAKE INTERCESSION FOR THE

CHRISTIAN! (8:34) See Hebrews 7:25

F.

NO ONE OR NOTHING CAN SEPARATE US FROM THE LOVE OF

CHRIST! (8:35 - 39)
1. This is speaking of CHRIST'S LOVE FOR US!
2. This LOVE OF GOD is IN CHRIST JESUS OUR LORD!

G.

3.

No HARDSHIP CAN SEPARATE US!

4.

NO FORCE IN THE UNIVERSE!

(8:39)

We are MORE THAN CONQUERORS THROUGH HIM THAT LOVED

US!

POSSIBLE DISCUSSION QUESTIONS:

1.

Discuss Romans 8:28 concerning HOW the Lord works in the Christian's life.
Compare this with Genesis 45:5, 7; 50:20; Colossians 1:17; Matthew
6:25 - 34.

2.

Show the DIFFERENCE between Bible "PREDESTINATION" (8:29, 30), and

CALVINISTIC PREDESTINATION which teaches that God arbitrarily
selected certain individuals for salvation outside of their own free choice.
Compare Ephesians 1:3 - 5.

3.

Do you feel a greater "blessed assurance" when you study this passage?

(8:18 - 39)

LESSON 11
THE LORD IS RIGHT!
(Romans 9:1 - 11:36)
PLEASE NOTE: In all that the apostle Paul has said in the book of Romans, he has
clearly demonstrated that THERE IS NO SALVATION OUTSIDE OF CHRIST!
(1) ALL are under the BONDAGE OF SIN, (2) CHRIST IS GOD'S ANSWER!
(3) SALVATION IS THE GIFT OF GOD TO THOSE WHO HAVE THAT
OBEDIENT FAITH IN CHRIST! Therefore, without Christ, MEN ARE LOST!
IS GOD RIGHT IN DOING THIS? Is the Lord VINDICATED in saying that
MEN ARE LOST OUTSIDE OF CHRIST? THE LORD IS RIGHT! Please see
the following SEVEN POINTS MADE BY PAUL!
I.

II.

III.

The PROBLEM was that the JEWS WERE GUILTY OF UNBELIEF!

(Romans 9:1:5)
A.

PAUL SPOKE THE TRUTH!

(9:1)

B.

Paul had a GREAT SORROW IN THIS HEART FOR ISRAEL, AND

COULD WISH HIMSELF "ACCURSED" FOR ISRAEL! He
LOVED HIS PEOPLE! (9:2, 3)

C.

LOOK AT ALL THE PRIVILEGES THE JEWS HAD!

were GUILTY OF UNBELIEF IN CHRIST!

(9:4, 5). Yet, they

GOD is SOVEREIGN! He has the RIGHT TO CHOOSE THOSE WHO WILL BE

SAVED! It is THOSE WHO ACCEPT CHRIST! (9:6 - 29)
A.

FLESHLY DESCENT is NOT ENOUGH! It is NOT the children of FLESH

THAT ARE PLEASING TO GOD, but rather the CHILDREN OF
PROMISE!
(9:6 - 8)

B.

Because He is SOVEREIGN, God selected JACOB, not ESAU!

God had that right to SELECT THE JEWS THROUGH WHOM
THE CHRIST WOULD COME!
(9:10 - 13)

C.

God is NOT UNRIGHTEOUS IN THIS! (9:14 - 18)

D.

Therefore, MAN CANNOT FIND FAULT WITH GOD!

ISRAEL'S LOST CONDITION IS ITS OWN FAULT!

A.

(9:19 - 29)

(9:30 - 10:13)

They sought SALVATION THROUGH A LAW OF WORKS, NOT BY

FAITH! (9:30 - 33). Not through Christ!

IV.

V.

VI.

VII.

B.

They SOUGHT A RIGHTEOUSNESS OF THEIR OWN!

See also Philippians 3:9

C.

The GOSPEL IS FOR ALL! (See 10:11 - 13) and is

UNDERSTANDABLE!

(10:1 - 4)

The JEWS' REJECTION WAS NOT BECAUSE THEY LACKED

OPPORTUNITY! (10:14 - 21)
A.

The MESSAGE ABOUT CHRIST WAS AVAILABLE TO ALL!

(10:14 - 18)

B.

God DESIGNED THE MESSAGE TO BE UNDERSTOOD!

DID GOD REJECT HIS PEOPLE, THE JEWS?

NO!

NO!

(10:19 - 21)

(11:1 - 10)

A.

PAUL WAS A JEW!

(11:1, 2)

B.

God has always had a FEW, a "REMNANT" WHO SERVE HIM!

(11:2 -5)

C.

God CHOOSES MEN THROUGH "GRACE," not a SYSTEM OF WORKS

(11:6)

D.

MOST OF THE JEWS WERE HARDENED AGAINST CHRIST!

(11:7 - 10)

The JEWS' REJECTION OF CHRIST WAS A WARNING TO GENTILE

CHRISTIANS!
(11:11 - 24)
A.

By ISRAEL'S REJECTION OF CHRIST, SALVATION CAME TO

GENTILES!
(11:11, 12)

B.

Paul was the apostle to the GENTILES! (11:13 - 16)

C.

Paul WARNED THE GENTILES AGAINST PRIDE! (11:17 -24)

Through UNBELIEF, THEY ALSO COULD BE CUT OFF!

God wants to EXTEND HIS MERCY TO EVERYONE!

(11:25 - 36)

A.

God LOVES THE JEWS! On account of the PATRIARCHS!

(11:28, 29)

B.

All are 'COUNTED" AS DISOBEDIENT, SO THAT GOD MAY HAVE

MERCY ON ALL! (11:32)

C.

The WAYS OF GOD ARE BEYOND COMPREHENSION AND WORTHY

OF PRAISE! (11:33 -36)

POSSIBLE DISCUSSION QUESTIONS:

1.

Is it REALLY TRUE THAT MEN, ALL MEN ARE LOST WITHOUT CHRIST?

2.

Does God have the RIGHT TO SAY, TO SPECIFY, WHO WILL BE SAVED?

3.

Discuss the meaning in Paul's discussion of the WILD OLIVE AND THE
DOMESTIC OLIVE TREE. (11:16 - 24)
LESSON 12
THE MERCIES OF GOD AND YOUR LIFE
(Romans 12:1 21)

PLEASE NOTE: Beginning with CHAPTER 12, Paul will ENCOURAGE! He has
spoken of ALL THAT GOD HAS DONE FOR US! We are SINNERS! (Romans
1 - 3). CHRIST IS THE SOLUTION! (3:21 - 5:21). Having been RAISED TO A
NEW LIFE, WE MUST BE HOLY!
(6:1 - 8:17). There is GREAT
MOTIVATION TO DO THIS! (8:18 - 39). God is RIGHT IN WHAT HE HAS
DONE! (9:1 - 11:36). NOW, here are PRACTICAL TEACHINGS ON HOW TO
LIVE! Notice the "THEREFORE" (12:1) which asks the question, "What is it
'there for?' "
I.

The DEMAND FOR TRANSFORMATION OF LIFE! (12:1, 2)

A.

Paul is saying that SALVATION THROUGH CHRIST is the REASON TO

LIVE RIGHT1

B.

You will PRESENT YOYR BODIES AS A "LIVING SACRIFICE"

BECAUSE OF GOD'S MERCIES! PLEASE NOTE THIS!

C.

(12:1)

The NATURE OF OUR TRANSFORMED LIFE:

(From the pen of brother Bill Smith)
1. WILLINGLY -- "Present!" Give it to the Lord!
2. TOTALLY -- "Your bodies!"

Give yourself completely!

3.

CONTINUALLY -- "Living!" A Never Ending commitment!

4.

PRIESTLY -- "Sacrifice!" Read Hebrews 13:15, 16)

5.

LIFE WORSHIP -- "REASONABLE SERVICE!" It is the Way

of Life of the DISCIPLE of Christ!

II.

III.

IV.

D.
The MIND is "RENEWED" (12:2). Read Colossians 3:1-17.
A TRANSFORMED LIFE demands a CORRECT VIEW OF YOURSELF!
(12:3 - 8)
A.

HONEST, HUMBLE VIEW OF SELF!

(12:3)

B.

WORKING TOGETHER AS A MEMBER OF THE BODY!

C.

ALWAYS USING THE ABILITIES AND GIFTS GIVEN TO US

Being GOOD STEWARDS!

(12:4, 5)
(12:6 - 8)

A TRANSFORMED LIFE will DEMAND A TENDER LOVE FOR THE FAMILY

OF THE LORD!
(12:9 - 16)
A.

A TENDER AFFECTION for other Christians

(12:9, 10)

B.

NO HYPOCRISY!

C.

FERVENCY! ON FIRE!

D.

HAPPY, OPTIMISTIC, PATIENT, PRAYERFUL!

E.

HELPING OTHERS!

F.

VICTORY OVER THE UNJUST! Bless them! (12:14)

G.

EMPATHY! Enter into the LIVES OF OTHERS! Rejoice and weep

with them! (12:15)

H.

UNITY!

(12:11)
(12:12)

(12:13) GENEROUS!

(12:16)

A TRANSFORMED LIFE demands the PROPER REGARD FOR ALL MEN!

(12:17 - 21)
A.

Never REPAY EVIL WITH EVIL!

(12:17)

B.

Be concerned with HONORABLE THINGS ONLY!

C.

Long for PEACE WITH EVERYONE! As much as possible!

D.

Do NOT take VENGEANCE ON OTHERS!

E.

Help your ENEMIES!

F.

The secret of VICTORY! "Overcome" means to GAIN VICTORY!

Be "VICTORIOUS" with GOOD! (12:21)

(12:17)
(12:18)

(12:19)

(12:20)

POSSIBLE DISCUSSION QUESTIONS:

1.

Discuss the "MERCIES OF GOD" as MOTIVATION for living a

"TRANSFORMED LIFE." Is it true that God's "mercies" include
ALL THAT PAUL HAS SAID ABOUT THE GOSPEL, THE GRACE OF
GOD, JESUS' SACRIFICE, etc. in chapters 1 - 11?

2.

Discuss "REASONABLE SERVICE" or "SPIRITUAL WORSHIP." Is it true that

our "SERVICE" is DAILY LIVING, NOT JUST OUR ASSEMBLY AS
BODY?
(12:1, 2)

A
3.

Discuss the VARIETY of WORK in 12:4 - 8. Is it true that EVERY CHRISTIAN

HAS A JOB TO DO?
LESSON 13
ADDITIONAL RESPONSIBILITIES OF THE TRANSFORMED LIFE
(Romans 13:1 - 15:13)

In chapter 12 of Romans, Paul had spoken of the TRANSFORMED LIFE! If we present

our bodies as a "LIVING SACRIFICE" (12:1, 2), we will have (1) The right view
concerning OURSELF! (12:3 - 8), (2) A TENDER LOVE for the FAMILY OF THE
LORD! (12:9 - 16), and, (3) A PROPER REGARD for ALL MEN! (12:17 - 21).
Now, in chapters 13, 14, and the first part of chapter 15, the apostle will outline the
RESPONSIBILITIES that Christians have in a SPECIFIC WAY toward GOVERNMENT,
THE WORLD, AND A WEAK BROTHER, in addition to the command of LOVE!
I.

II.

RESPONSIBILITY to our GOVERNMENT

(13:1 - 7)

A.

WE ARE TO OBEY THE "POWERS THAT BE!" (13:1), for government

is "ordained of God!" See also I Peter 2:13 - 17

B.

God uses GOVERNMENT as His "MINISTER!"

C.

Government has POWER TO PUNISH!

D.

The responsibility to PAY TAXES and SHOW RESPECT!

RESPONSIBILITY TO LOVE!

(13:4)

(13:4)
(13:6, 7)

(13:8 - 10)

A.

"OWE NO MAN ANYTHING" means to PAY WHAT YOU OWE!

B.

LOVE, however, is a DEBT that e can NEVER PAY OFF!

C.
III.

(13:9, 10)

RESPONSIBILITY to put on the ARMOR OF LIGHT!" (13:11 - 14)

A.

ETERNAL SALVATION is NEARER now than we first believed!

This is FUTURE SALVATION!

B.

The Christian's BEHAVIOR is PROPER, not the behavior of CAROUSING

and DRUNKENNESS, of SENSUALITY! Why? He has PUT
THE LORD JESUS CHRIST! See "WALKING" according to
SPIRIT, NOT THE FLESH! (8:12 - 17). Therefore, we walk
LIGHT, not DARKNESS!

ON
the
in
IV.

LOVE is always expressed in ACTION!

RESPONSIBILITY to a WEAK BROTHER

A.

(13:11)

(14:1 - 15:13)

There are some who are STRONG in the faith, and there are also those who
are WEAK
(See Romans 15:1).

B.

SOME could EAT MEAT, others ate only VEGETABLES! Some counted
one day over another. These were matters of
INDIFFERENCE or
OPINION, not matters of faith! (14:2 6)
C.

Christians MUST NOT CONDEMN THEIR BRETHREN with HARSH

JUDGMENT OVER MATTERS of EXPEDIENCY! Please note
this!

D.

All Christians belong UNTO THE LORD!

E.

BE CONCERNED ABOUT YOUR WEAK BROTHER, and be certain that

YOUR ACTIONS WILL NOT CAUSE HIM TO BE LOST! (14:15)

F.

NO MAN SHOULD VIOLATE HIS CONSCIENCE! (14:20 - 23). This is

the meaning of "whatsoever is not of faith is sin" (14:23)

G.

We must SHOW LOVE TO A WEAKER BROTHER, and do what EDIFIES,

or BUILDS HIM UP!
(14:15, 19)

H.

The STRONG must help the WEAK, and NOT TRY TO PLEASE
THEMSELVES!
(15:1)

I.

CHRIST DID NOT TRY TO PLEASE HIMSELF!

J.

Paul made a PLEA FOR UNITY!

K.

THE ADMONITION IS: "WELCOME ONE ANOTHER" just as

CHRIST WELCOMED OR RECEIVED YOU, and this will
BRING GLORY TO GOD!
(15:7)

(14:8)

(15:3)

(15:5, 6)

L.

LOOK AT HOW CHRIST RECEIVES MEN!

(15:8 - 13)

POSSIBLE DISCUSSION QUESTIONS:

1.

Does the command "OWE NO MAN ANYTHING" speak against installment

buying? (13:8)

2.

How do Acts 5:29 and 4:19, 20 relate to the command to OBEY OUR
GOVERNMENT?

3.

NOTE:

Paul was speaking about the Christian's attitude toward a BROTHER IN

CHRIST WHO CME FROM A DIFFERENT BACKGROUND! Paul
urged us to "WELCOME ONE ANOTHER!" Does this say anything to
us about OUR RELATIONSHIP TO BRETHREN OF DIFFERENT
RACIAL, or LANGUAGE, or TRIBAL BACKGROUND?
LESSON 14
PRINCIPLES IN PAUL'S CONCLUSION
(Romans 15:14 - 16:27)

PLEASE NOTE: The last FIVE CHAPTERS of Romans contain practical

commandments that COME OUT of the Christian's relationship to the Lord
(Romans 12 - 16). BECAUSE OF GOD'S MERCIES (Romans 12:1), LIVE THIS
KIND OF LIFE! YOU ARE SAVED BY THE GRACE OF GOD THROUGH
CHRIST! NOW, DO THIS! We have looked at the TRANSFORMED LIFE of the
DISCIPLE (12:1 - 21), the responsibility to GOVERNMENT, TO BE PEOPLE
WHO LOVE (13:1 - 14), and to RECEIVE ONE ANOTHER WITHOUT
PARTIALITY (14:1 - 15:13). Now, let us see MORE BEAUTIFUL PRINCIPLES
IN PAUL'S CONCLUSION!
I.

The VISION of the MISSIONARY!

(Romans 15:14 - 24)

A.

Paul had CONFIDENCE in the Roman brethren (15:14)

B.

He had spoken unto them BOLDLY

C.

He had been entrusted with a MINISTRY TO THE GENTILES!

(15:16 - 18)

D.

Paul had preached ALL THE WAY FROM JERUSALEM TO ILLYRICUM

(Roman province north of Macedonia) (15:19)
1.

(15:15)

Please note that some preach IN EXISTING CONGREGATIONS

(I Timothy 1:3), etc.

2.

Others, like PAUL, want to PREACH WHERE CHRIST HAS NOT

BEEN NAMED!
(15:20)

3.

THOSE WHO HAVE NOT HEARD MUST HEAR!

4.

Paul wanted to go to ROME!

(15:22, 23)

5. Then, he wanted to GO ON TO SPAIN!

II.

MINISTERING to NEEDY PEOPLE!

(15:21)

(15:24)

(15:25 - 33)

A.

Before going to ROME and SPAIN, he must go to JERUSALEM!

Please see Acts 20 and chapters following

B.

He was TAKING A CONTRIBUTION TO NEEDY SAINTS!

(15:25).

(15:25 -27)

1.

"Ministering" is the word for "SERVING!" See Matthew 20:28.

2.

See this same "CONTRIBUTION" in I Corinthians 16:1 - 3 and

II Corinthians 8, 9

3. The word "CONTRIBUTION" (15:26) is the word "FELLOWSHIP"

(A SHARING TOGETHER OF MATERIAL THINGS)

III.

1V.

4.

NOTE: This CONTRIBUTION was given, not only to help needy

saints, but also to "CEMENT" BROTHERLY RELATIONS
BETWEEN JEWISH AND GENTILE CHRISTIANS! The JEWISH
Christians had brought the GOSPEL to the Gentiles. Now, the
GENTILES will help with MATERIAL BLESSINGS (15:27)

5.

Paul needed THEIR PRAYERS!

(15:30 - 33)

BEAUTIFUL COMMENDATION OF BELOVED BRETHREN (16:1 - 16)

A.

PHOEBE was a wonderful "SERVANT" of the church in Cenchreae

(16:1, 2)

B.

AQUILA and PRISCILLA have returned to ROME! Look at the wonderful

work they had done, and were doing (16:3 - 5). See how they had
EARLIER been forced to leave Rome (Acts 18:1 - 8)

C.

Please note the TENDER AFFECTION that Paul felt for many brothers
and sisters, and the COMMENDATION HE GAVE THEM
(16:5 - 16)

A PLEADING to AVOID those who CAUSE DIVISION

(16:17, 18)

V.

PRAISE for OUR GOD who GAVE THIS GLORIOUS GOSPEL!

(16:25 - 27)

POSSIBLE DISCUSSION QUESTIONS:

1.

Does Paul's ATTITUDE concerning MISSION WORK teach us to be "MISSIONMINDED?"

2.

Discuss the word "FELLOWSHIP" as it is used by Paul to speak of the

contribution for the saints
(15:26)

3.

Why is it GOOD to COMMEND people who SERVE THE LORD with DEEP
DEDICATION just as Paul commended MANY in Romans 16:1 - 16?

MORE
DETAILED
NOTES
ON
ROMANS

STUDIES
IN THE
BOOK
OF
ROMANS

Bob Buchanan