Approaching the Bible [Part 13]: The Book of Romans

Read Aloud

As we move from the journeys of the apostles in Acts to the letters that follow, we begin with one of the most profound and foundational writings in all of Scripture — Paul’s Letter to the Romans. Written around AD 57, this letter is often called the “Constitution of Christianity” for its clear and powerful explanation of the Gospel.

Paul’s Purpose

Paul wrote to believers in Rome — a city he had not yet visited — to strengthen their faith and unify Jewish and Gentile Christians under one truth: salvation is available to all through faith in Jesus Christ. Romans isn’t just theology; it’s a love letter to humanity explaining God’s plan of redemption in breathtaking detail.

Sin, Grace, and Righteousness

Early in the letter, Paul makes it clear that all have sinned and fall short of the glory of God (Romans 3:23). Yet he follows with the greatest hope imaginable — that we are justified freely by God’s grace through Jesus Christ. This message of undeserved mercy breaks every boundary of culture, background, and status.

Romans teaches that righteousness is not earned by works or adherence to the law, but credited through faith. This radical truth transforms how we see ourselves and others — no longer condemned, but redeemed.

Life in the Spirit

In Romans 8, Paul shifts from theology to transformation, describing the life led by the Holy Spirit. “There is now no condemnation for those who are in Christ Jesus.” This chapter overflows with assurance, reminding believers that nothing can separate us from the love of God.

The Spirit empowers us to overcome sin, endure trials, and live as God’s children — heirs to an eternal promise.

Faith That Transforms

Later chapters call believers to humility, unity, and love. Paul urges the Church to present their bodies as living sacrifices, to overcome evil with good, and to live peaceably with all people. The faith Paul describes isn’t passive — it’s active, transformative, and evident in how we love one another.

Why Romans Still Matters

Romans continues to change hearts today because it reminds us that grace is the great equalizer. It dismantles pride, magnifies mercy, and calls us to live boldly for Christ. Through its pages, we see the very heartbeat of the Gospel — a message of hope that never fades.

Coming Next: Approaching the Bible [Part 14]: 1 Corinthians — A Church Divided and the Call to Love