# Overview Romans Chapter 1 serves as the foundational introduction to the apostle #Paul's epistle to the #Romans. In this chapter, Paul introduces himself as a servant of #ChristJesus, called to be an apostle, and set apart for the #Gospel of God. He emphasizes the gospel's roots in the #OldTestament, through the #prophets, and its fulfillment in Jesus, who is descended from #David according to the flesh and declared to be the #SonOfGod with power through the #HolySpirit by his resurrection from the dead. Paul’s mission to preach the gospel to all nations is underscored as he expresses his longing to visit the believers in #Rome to impart spiritual gifts and to mutually encourage faith. This introduction establishes the universal scope of the gospel and Paul's authority and dedication to his apostolic mission. The latter part of the chapter transitions into a powerful discourse on the righteousness of God and the revelation of #God's wrath against ungodliness and unrighteousness of men who suppress the truth. Paul articulates that God's invisible qualities, eternal power, and divine nature have been clearly seen and understood through creation, leaving humanity without excuse. Despite this revelation, people exchanged the glory of the immortal God for images resembling mortal man and creatures, leading to their hearts being darkened. This idolatry results in God giving them over to various sins, highlighting the consequences of turning away from the Creator. Paul concludes by listing specific sins and behaviors that arise from this rebellion, emphasizing the need for the gospel's transformative power in a fallen world. ## Theological Insights Romans 1 serves as a foundational chapter for understanding the #Gospel as presented by the Apostle #Paul. The chapter begins with a declaration of Paul's identity as a servant of #ChristJesus, called to be an apostle, and set apart for the gospel of God. This establishes Paul's authority and mission as divinely ordained (Romans 1:1-2). The chapter emphasizes the **universal scope of the gospel**, which was promised beforehand through the prophets in the Holy Scriptures concerning God's Son, who was descended from #David according to the flesh and declared to be the Son of God in power according to the Spirit of holiness by his resurrection from the dead, Jesus Christ our Lord (Romans 1:3-4). This highlights the fulfillment of Old Testament prophecies and the confirmation of Jesus' divine sonship through the resurrection, which is central to Christian faith. Paul’s expression of gratitude for the #Roman believers’ faith being proclaimed in all the world (Romans 1:8) underscores the spread of the gospel and the strength of the early church. This reflects the ongoing mission of the church to be a witness to the nations, as seen in the Great Commission (Matthew 28:19-20). A key theological theme in Romans 1 is the **righteousness of God** revealed in the gospel, which is received by faith. Paul states, "For I am not ashamed of the gospel, for it is the power of God for salvation to everyone who believes, to the Jew first and also to the Greek. For in it the righteousness of God is revealed from faith for faith, as it is written, 'The righteous shall live by faith'" (Romans 1:16-17). This connection between faith and righteousness establishes that salvation is available to all, transcending ethnic and cultural boundaries, and is accessible through faith alone. The chapter also delves into the **wrath of God** against ungodliness and unrighteousness of men who suppress the truth (Romans 1:18). This is a crucial aspect of Paul's argument, stressing the need for the gospel because humanity, in its fallen state, has turned away from God. Paul documents the consequences of such rebellion, including idolatry and moral decay (Romans 1:21-32), illustrating the depth of human sinfulness and the justice of God’s judgment. Romans 1 concludes with a description of a society that has exchanged the truth of God for a lie and worshiped the creature rather than the Creator (Romans 1:25). This serves as a powerful indictment of idolatry and moral corruption, echoing the Old Testament prophets who condemned Israel for similar sins (e.g., [[Isaiah/Isaiah Chapter 44]]). In summary, Romans 1 lays the groundwork for understanding the need for salvation through faith in Jesus Christ, the righteousness of God revealed in the gospel, and the reality of divine judgment against sin, setting the stage for the rest of Paul's epistle. ## Thematic Connections ### The Universal Need for the Gospel In Romans 1, the Apostle #Paul outlines the universal need for the #gospel, emphasizing that all humanity is in need of salvation due to the pervasive nature of sin. This theme is echoed throughout the #NewTestament, particularly in [[Romans/Romans Chapter 3]], where Paul reiterates that "all have sinned and fall short of the glory of God." The universality of sin and the offer of salvation through Jesus Christ is a central theme in Paul’s writings. ### The Righteousness of God Revealed Romans 1:17 introduces the theme of the righteousness of God being revealed through faith, a concept that Paul will further explore in [[Romans/Romans Chapter 3]] and [[Romans/Romans Chapter 4]]. This theme connects to [[Habakkuk/Habakkuk Chapter 2|Habakkuk 2:4]], where it is stated, "the righteous shall live by faith," highlighting the continuity between the #OldTestament and the #NewTestament in understanding salvation and righteousness. ### The Wrath of God Against Ungodliness Paul speaks of the wrath of God being revealed against all ungodliness and unrighteousness of men who suppress the truth (Romans 1:18). This theme aligns with the #OldTestament depictions of God's judgment against sin, such as in [[Genesis/Genesis Chapter 6|Genesis 6]], where God’s wrath is shown in the flood narrative, and in [[Exodus/Exodus Chapter 32|Exodus 32]], where the golden calf incident results in divine punishment. ### The Rejection of God and Its Consequences Romans 1 discusses how humanity has exchanged the truth of God for a lie, worshiping created things rather than the Creator (Romans 1:25). This theme resonates with the #Israelites’ frequent struggles with idolatry, as seen in [[Exodus/Exodus Chapter 32|Exodus 32]] and [[1 Kings/1 Kings Chapter 12]], where the worship of idols leads to severe consequences. Paul’s emphasis on the consequences of rejecting God’s truth underscores the persistent biblical message regarding the dangers of idolatry and spiritual rebellion. ### The Natural Revelation of God In Romans 1:19-20, Paul asserts that God’s invisible qualities, eternal power, and divine nature have been clearly seen through what has been made, so people are without excuse. This theme of natural revelation is present in [[Psalms/Psalms Chapter 19]], where the heavens declare the glory of God, and in [[Job/Job Chapter 12]], where the natural world is seen as a testament to God’s wisdom and power. This underscores the biblical idea that creation itself testifies to the existence and attributes of God. ## Prophetic Fulfillments ### The Promise of the Gospel In Romans 1, Paul emphasizes the Gospel promised beforehand through the prophets in the Holy Scriptures (Romans 1:2). This highlights the fulfillment of numerous Old Testament prophecies concerning the coming of the #Messiah and the establishment of God’s kingdom. The message of the Gospel as the power of God for salvation to everyone who believes (Romans 1:16) reflects the prophecies foretold in passages such as [[Isaiah/Isaiah Chapter 52|Isaiah 52:7]] and [[Isaiah/Isaiah Chapter 61|Isaiah 61:1]], where the coming of good news and liberation is anticipated. ### The Righteous Shall Live By Faith Romans 1:17 declares, "The righteous shall live by faith," quoting the prophet [[Habakkuk/Habakkuk Chapter 2|Habakkuk 2:4]]. This statement underscores the fulfillment of Old Testament prophecy regarding justification by faith, which was a central theme in the prophetic writings. Paul’s use of this prophecy connects believers to the enduring truth that righteousness before God is obtained through faith, fulfilling the hope expressed in the prophets that a relationship with God is rooted in trust and faithfulness rather than law alone. ### Gentiles and the Knowledge of God Romans 1:19-20 speaks of God’s invisible attributes being clearly seen, understood through what has been made, so that people are without excuse. This connects to the prophetic vision that all nations and peoples would come to know God, as seen in passages such as [[Isaiah/Isaiah Chapter 11|Isaiah 11:9]] and [[Psalm/Psalm 19|Psalm 19:1-4]], where the knowledge of the Lord fills the earth and creation itself declares His glory. Paul’s message in Romans 1 reflects the prophetic anticipation that God’s revelation and righteousness would eventually reach all humanity, including the #Gentiles. ### The Wrath of God Revealed Romans 1:18 speaks of the wrath of God being revealed against all ungodliness and unrighteousness of men. This fulfillment of divine judgment aligns with prophetic warnings found in the Old Testament, such as in [[Jeremiah/Jeremiah Chapter 11|Jeremiah 11:11]] and [[Ezekiel/Ezekiel Chapter 7|Ezekiel 7:8-9]], where God’s wrath is foretold against those who reject Him. Paul’s message in Romans serves as a continuation of these prophetic declarations, emphasizing that the consequences of turning away from God remain consistent with the warnings given through the prophets. ### The Call to the Obedience of Faith Paul’s mission, as stated in Romans 1:5, is to bring about the obedience of faith among all nations for the sake of Christ’s name. This call to the nations fulfills the prophetic vision of global worship and allegiance to God, as seen in passages like [[Isaiah/Isaiah Chapter 42|Isaiah 42:6]] and [[Malachi/Malachi Chapter 1|Malachi 1:11]], where God’s salvation and glory are proclaimed to the ends of the earth. Paul’s apostolic mission is framed as a fulfillment of these prophecies, highlighting the universal scope of the Gospel and its invitation to all peoples. ## Verses - **Romans 1:1** - "This letter is from #Paul, a slave of Christ [[Jesus Christ (Multiple)|Jesus Christ]], chosen by God to be an apostle and sent out to preach his Good News." - References: [[Acts/Acts Chapter 9]], [[Galatians/Galatians Chapter 1]] - **Romans 1:2** - "God promised this Good News long ago through his prophets in the holy Scriptures." - References: [[Isaiah/Isaiah Chapter 53]], [[Micah/Micah Chapter 5]] - **Romans 1:3** - "The Good News is about his Son. In his earthly life he was born into King #David's family line," - References: [[Matthew/Matthew Chapter 1]], [[2 Samuel/2 Samuel Chapter 7]] - **Romans 1:4** - "and he was shown to be the Son of God when he was raised from the dead by the power of the Holy Spirit. He is [[Jesus Christ (Multiple)|Jesus Christ]] Christ our Lord." - References: [[Acts/Acts Chapter 2]], [[1 Corinthians/1 Corinthians Chapter 15]] - **Romans 1:5** - "Through Christ, God has given us the privilege and authority as apostles to tell Gentiles everywhere what God has done for them, so that they will believe and obey him, bringing glory to his name." - References: [[Matthew/Matthew Chapter 28]], [[Acts/Acts Chapter 13]] - **Romans 1:6** - "And you are included among those Gentiles who have been called to belong to Jesus Christ." - References: [[Ephesians/Ephesians Chapter 2]], [[Colossians/Colossians Chapter 1]] - **Romans 1:7** - "I am writing to all of you in #Rome who are loved by God and are called to be his own holy people. May God our Father and the Lord Jesus Christ give you grace and peace." - References: [[1 Corinthians/1 Corinthians Chapter 1]], [[Philippians/Philippians Chapter 1]] - **Romans 1:8** - "Let me say first that I thank my God through Jesus Christ for all of you, because your faith in him is being talked about all over the world." - References: [[1 Thessalonians/1 Thessalonians Chapter 1]], [[Colossians/Colossians Chapter 1]] - **Romans 1:9** - "God knows how often I pray for you. Day and night I bring you and your needs in prayer to God, whom I serve with all my heart by spreading the Good News about his Son." - References: [[Philippians/Philippians Chapter 1]], [[2 Timothy/2 Timothy Chapter 1]] - **Romans 1:10** - "One of the things I always pray for is the opportunity, God willing, to come at last to see you." - References: [[Acts/Acts Chapter 19]], [[1 Thessalonians/1 Thessalonians Chapter 3]] - **Romans 1:11** - "For I long to visit you so I can bring you some spiritual gift that will help you grow strong in the Lord." - References: [[1 Corinthians/1 Corinthians Chapter 12]], [[Ephesians/Ephesians Chapter 4]] - **Romans 1:12** - "When we get together, I want to encourage you in your faith, but I also want to be encouraged by yours." - References: [[Hebrews/Hebrews Chapter 10]], [[1 Thessalonians/1 Thessalonians Chapter 5]] - **Romans 1:13** - "I want you to know, dear brothers and sisters, that I planned many times to visit you, but I was prevented until now. I want to work among you and see spiritual fruit, just as I have seen among other Gentiles." - References: [[Acts/Acts Chapter 16]], [[Philippians/Philippians Chapter 4]] - **Romans 1:14** - "For I have a great sense of obligation to people in both the civilized world and the rest of the world, to the educated and uneducated alike." - References: [[1 Corinthians/1 Corinthians Chapter 9]], [[Acts/Acts Chapter 17]] - **Romans 1:15** - "So I am eager to come to you in Rome, too, to preach the Good News." - References: [[Acts/Acts Chapter 19]], [[Philippians/Philippians Chapter 1]] - **Romans 1:16** - "For I am not ashamed of this Good News about Christ. It is the power of God at work, saving everyone who believes—the #Jew first and also the #Gentile." - References: [[1 Corinthians/1 Corinthians Chapter 1]], [[Galatians/Galatians Chapter 3]] - **Romans 1:17** - "This Good News tells us how God makes us right in his sight. This is accomplished from start to finish by faith. As the Scriptures say, ‘It is through faith that a righteous person has life.’" - References: [[Habakkuk/Habakkuk Chapter 2]], [[Galatians/Galatians Chapter 3]] - **Romans 1:18** - "But God shows his anger from heaven against all sinful, wicked people who suppress the truth by their wickedness." - References: [[Ephesians/Ephesians Chapter 5]], [[Colossians/Colossians Chapter 3]] - **Romans 1:19** - "They know the truth about God because he has made it obvious to them." - References: [[Psalm/Psalm Chapter 19]], [[Acts/Acts Chapter 14]] - **Romans 1:20** - "For ever since the world was created, people have seen the earth and sky. Through everything God made, they can clearly see his invisible qualities—his eternal power and divine nature. So they have no excuse for not knowing God." - References: [[Genesis/Genesis Chapter 1]], [[Psalm/Psalm Chapter 19]] - **Romans 1:21** - "Yes, they knew God, but they wouldn’t worship him as God or even give him thanks. And they began to think up foolish ideas of what God was like. As a result, their minds became dark and confused." - References: [[Ephesians/Ephesians Chapter 4]], [[2 Corinthians/2 Corinthians Chapter 4]] - **Romans 1:22** - "Claiming to be wise, they instead became utter fools." - References: [[1 Corinthians/1 Corinthians Chapter 3]], [[Psalm/Psalm Chapter 14]] - **Romans 1:23** - "And instead of worshiping the glorious, ever-living God, they worshiped idols made to look like mere people and birds and animals and reptiles." - References: [[Exodus/Exodus Chapter 20]], [[Isaiah/Isaiah Chapter 44]] - **Romans 1:24** - "So God abandoned them to do whatever shameful things their hearts desired. As a result, they did vile and degrading things with each other’s bodies." - References: [[Ephesians/Ephesians Chapter 4]], [[1 Corinthians/1 Corinthians Chapter 6]] - **Romans 1:25** - "They traded the truth about God for a lie. So they worshiped and served the things God created instead of the Creator himself, who is worthy of eternal praise! Amen." - References: [[Isaiah/Isaiah Chapter 44]], [[Jeremiah/Jeremiah Chapter 10]] - **Romans 1:26** - "That is why God abandoned them to their shameful desires. Even the women turned against the natural way to have sex and instead indulged in sex with each other." - References: [[Leviticus/Leviticus Chapter 18]], [[1 Corinthians/1 Corinthians Chapter 6]] - **Romans 1:27** - "And the men, instead of having normal sexual relations with women, burned with lust for each other. Men did shameful things with other men, and as a result of this sin, they suffered within themselves the penalty they deserved." - References: [[Leviticus/Leviticus Chapter 18]], [[1 Corinthians/1 Corinthians Chapter 6]] - **Romans 1:28** - "Since they thought it foolish to acknowledge God, he abandoned them to their foolish thinking and let them do things that should never be done." - References: [[Ephesians/Ephesians Chapter 4]], [[2 Thessalonians/2 Thessalonians Chapter 2]] - **Romans 1:29** - "Their lives became full of every kind of wickedness, sin, greed, hate, envy, murder, quarreling, deception, malicious behavior, and gossip." - References: [[Galatians/Galatians Chapter 5]], [[Colossians/Colossians Chapter 3]] - **Romans 1:30** - "They are backstabbers, haters of God, insolent, proud, and boastful. They invent new ways of sinning, and they disobey their parents." - References: [[2 Timothy/2 Timothy Chapter 3]], [[Proverbs/Proverbs Chapter 6]] - **Romans 1:31** - "They refuse to understand, break their promises, are heartless, and have no mercy." - References: [[Ephesians/Ephesians Chapter 4]], [[2 Timothy/2 Timothy Chapter 3]] - **Romans 1:32** - "They know God’s justice requires that those who do these things deserve to die, yet they do them anyway. Worse yet, they encourage others to do them, too." - References: [[Galatians/Galatians Chapter 5]], [[Proverbs/Proverbs Chapter 1]]