Exploring Christian Doctrine: The Book of Romans

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The Apostle Paul—often referred to as the Thirteenth Apostle and the Apostle to the Gentiles—is one of the most extensively documented figures in the Bible. He authored nearly one-third of the New Testament, and apart from Jesus, he has arguably had the greatest impact on Christianity over the past two millennia. Before looking at his epistles, I thought we should get to know him.

Paul was born Saul in Tarsus, a prominent Syrian city on the northeastern Mediterranean coast renowned for its prestigious university, rivaling those of Athens and Alexandria. Named after Israel’s first king and hailing from the same tribe of Benjamin, he was raised as a devout Jew steeped in Scripture and Jewish thought. Early on, his family is believed to have relocated to Galilee, where Saul studied under the renowned rabbi Gamaliel in Jerusalem.

A zealous Pharisee, Saul was initially determined to protect the purity of Judaism. His fervor led him to view the emerging Christian movement as a dire threat, so much so that he actively participated in the persecution of Christians. Notably, he held the garments of those who stoned Stephen, the first Christian martyr—an image that, along with the glory of God shining upon Stephen and his final declaration of seeing the Son of Man at God’s right hand, would later leave a lasting impression on Paul.

Fluent in Greek and a Roman citizen by birth—a privilege that later saved him from flogging and crucifixion—Paul’s early life was a blend of diverse cultural influences, from Jewish traditions to Greek philosophy as well as Roman legal privileges. These experiences uniquely prepared him for his future mission: spreading the gospel far beyond the borders of Judaism.

Paul’s transformation is one of the most dramatic conversion stories in Scripture. While on a mission beyond Israel’s borders to persecute Christians, he encountered the risen Jesus on the road to Damascus. This life-altering event occurred at the foothills of the mountain where Jesus had been transfigured. It was as if the glory of Jesus was housed there! Blinded by this divine glory and overwhelmed by the encounter, Paul was commissioned to bring the gospel to the Gentiles. This divine appointment, causing Paul to temporarily lose his eyesight, was no doubt the cause of his eye problems ever after, the thorn in his side.

Following this divine encounter, Paul obediently sought out a man named Ananias. Despite Ananias’ understandable hesitation—given Paul’s notorious reputation—the meeting led to a complete transformation over the course of three days. Paul repented, regained his sight, was filled with the Holy Spirit, and was baptized. This sequence—repentance, faith, baptism, and receiving the Holy Spirit—marks the four essential steps of Christian rebirth as taught by theologian David Pawson.

However, Paul’s conversion did not mean an immediate leap into missionary journeys. Despite quickly beginning to preach his testimony, he encountered opposition from both Christians (who were initially wary) and Jews (who saw him as a traitor). As a result, Paul retreated to Tarsus for nearly a decade and even spent three years in Arabia, meditating on the Scriptures and preparing for his future ministry. It wasn’t until thirteen years after his conversion that he formally embarked on his evangelistic mission. As the last apostle personally commissioned by Jesus, Paul staunchly defended his authority, understanding that persecution of Christians was, in effect, persecution of Christ Himself.

Ancient Antioch—often dubbed the “Paris of the ancient world”—plays a critical role in Paul’s story. It was here that the first Gentile church was established and where the term Christian was first coined. In Antioch, Paul’s calling was confirmed alongside Barnabas, and the church entrusted them with a mission that would set the stage for early Christian expansion as they were called out.

Funded by the Antioch church, Paul and Barnabas delivered aid to struggling congregations in Judea and beyond. Their journey began in Cyprus, then extended to the mainland, planting churches in every major city they encountered. Paul’s strategy was both practical and effective: he would stay in a city for as little as three weeks to train new believers and then move on, following up later with visits or letters. His ultimate goal was nothing short of taking the gospel as far as Spain.

Paul’s travels were fraught with danger—he faced imprisonments, beatings, shipwrecks, and constant hostility. His journey eventually led him to Rome, not as a triumphant liberator but as a prisoner. Even in chains, however, Paul turned adversity into opportunity, using his imprisonment to evangelize and convert many of his Roman guards. After an initial release, some accounts suggest he may have reached Spain before being betrayed by Alexander the metalworker, only to be recaptured under Nero’s reign through Alexander’s conspiracy, and ultimately executed by beheading—a fate delivered due his status as a Roman citizen rather than crucifixion, a death saved for non-Romans.

Imagine a short, bowlegged, balding man with a hooked nose, thick eyebrows, and a fiery gaze through peculiar looking eyes, stepping into your church—someone with a controversial past, a criminal record, and a history of stirring up trouble, who also worked part-time as a tentmaker. This unassuming figure was Paul.

Despite his less-than-impressive physical appearance and tumultuous past, Paul was chosen by God to shape the course of Christianity. He was diligent, fearless, compassionate, and utterly dedicated to his mission. Identifying himself as a slave of Christ—a term that signified deep humility in an age where slavery meant having no rights, no time, and no money—Paul simultaneously regarded himself as an ambassador for Christ, a role of immense honor.

Even when chained, Paul found joy. A brilliant thinker, philosopher, and teacher, he was convinced that the future kingdom of God was breaking into the present. For Paul, faith was not merely an intellectual exercise but a transformative way of life. He recognized his own unworthiness and embraced God’s grace with gratitude, rejoicing in suffering, imprisonment, and even the prospect of death.

He touched the lives of those around him, including his Roman guards who rotated every eight hours and were chained to him. Many of them converted.

Paul’s influence extends far beyond his missionary journeys. He is history’s most famous letter-writer—a striking fact considering that letter writing was rare in the ancient world, where travel and face-to-face communication were the norms. While typical letters might have been a mere 20 words long, Paul’s epistles averaged around 1,500 words, serving as profound theological treatises and practical guides for Christian living.

Theologian David Pawson once remarked, “No other religion uses letters as divine revelation.” Indeed, Paul’s letters—circulated among early churches before eventually being compiled into the New Testament—became foundational to Christian doctrine. His writings cover a range of themes, from the universality of salvation and the nature of grace to practical advice on church leadership, relationships, and daily living.

Paul’s epistles, whether personal, occasional, or general, were composed in a style reminiscent of an orator’s speech. They open with a clear introduction, develop their subject with depth and clarity, and close with heartfelt greetings and a signature. For modern readers, it’s best to approach these letters in one sitting—just as a personal message would be read—to fully appreciate the powerful insights Paul offers. This is how the church would have read them. No one opens a letter, sits down and reads a paragraph or two, puts the letter down, and returns to it the next day.

Paul’s life is a testament to the life-giving power of faith. From his early years as a devout but zealous Pharisee to his dramatic conversion and subsequent dedication to spreading the gospel, his journey is one of radical change and relentless mission. His writings continue to shape Christian thought, offering both theological depth and practical guidance for believers today.

Paul’s legacy reminds us that even the most unlikely individuals can be transformed and used for God’s greatest purposes. His story challenges us to consider our own lives in light of his example—a life surrendered to God’s calling, marked by grace, faith, and the powerful impact of living as an ambassador for Christ.

In my next installment, we’ll begin to unpack the Book of Romans. Just what was Paul’s mindset at the time?

Until then, you can stop by Writeious Books for further reading and insights or to explore all that I’ve put my hand to, including my books and music, visit Writeious Books and have a little snack as I serve you up some food for thought! Create. Inspire. Repeat.

Written by Jori Sams

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The Book of Romans, a cornerstone of the New Testament, offers a profound exploration of Christian theology. Written by the Apostle Paul, this epistle is a deep dive into key doctrines, including salvation through faith, the grace of God, and the righteousness that comes by believing in Jesus Christ. Paul addresses humanity’s universal sinfulness, the role of the law, the significance of faith over works, and the transformative power of God’s love.

Through 16 chapters, Paul emphasizes that both Jews and Gentiles are justified by faith, offering a blueprint for Christian life. He speaks on topics like sin, sanctification, and God’s sovereignty in salvation, while also providing practical instructions on living a righteous life. Romans is seen as a theological masterpiece, influencing Christian doctrine and personal faith journeys for centuries.

This book not only offers doctrinal clarity but also reveals Paul’s heart for unity within the church, showcasing God’s ultimate plan for humanity.

Over the coming weeks, we’ll explore it in more detail.

In the ancient world, letters were rare treasures, often costly and complex to send. Imagine this: fewer than 14,000 letters have been recovered from antiquity, most ranging from a mere 20 to 200 words. Yet, a few philosophers—like Cicero, whose longest letter spanned 2,500 words, and Seneca, with a 4,000-word letter—wrote epistles that defied the norm. Then there’s Paul, the Apostle, whose letters not only bridged distances but profoundly shaped Christian thought.

Paul’s letters average 1,500 words, a feat in itself. Yet, his epistle to the Romans stands apart. At a monumental 7,000 words, Romans isn’t just Paul’s longest letter—it’s the longest letter in all of ancient history. And unlike his other letters, Romans isn’t casual or personal; it reads like a profound theological discourse, an intricate lecture crafted for believers he had never even met. Paul hadn’t planted the church in Rome, nor did he have any prior contact with its members. Instead, he poured intellectual depth and spiritual insight into every line, addressing complex doctrines of faith and salvation with clarity and rigor.

Paul’s letters, particularly Romans, remind us of the immense power of the written word to influence, inspire, and connect—across generations and borders. In Romans, Paul reaches across time and space, offering not just communication but transformation through words that continue to resonate deeply today.

The purpose of Paul’s letter to the Romans has sparked much debate among scholars, but a closer look at its historical context reveals a powerful reason behind its writing. During Emperor Claudius’s reign, some 40,000 Jews were expelled from Rome, leaving the Roman church as a predominantly Gentile body. Years later, under Emperor Nero, the Jews were invited back to Rome due to their economic value to the empire. But this return stirred tension within the church. The Gentile Christians, now firmly established, did not welcome their Jewish brothers and sisters back with open arms, creating a rift that threatened the unity of the church.

Enter Paul’s letter to the Romans—a profound and timely message of reconciliation. Paul’s purpose in Romans goes beyond theological instruction; it’s a call for unity. He urges the Roman believers to see beyond their cultural differences and embrace a shared identity in Christ. Through this letter, Paul seeks to help the Gentile and Jewish believers understand that the gospel transcends ethnic and cultural boundaries, drawing all people into God’s family.

Paul writes from Corinth, a city with its own diverse blend of cultures and influences, making him uniquely positioned to address the divisions within the Roman church. He uses this setting to craft a message that both explains the foundations of faith and challenges believers to live in harmony. In Romans, Paul doesn’t just teach theology—he teaches transformation, offering a vision for a church that, united in Christ, can withstand even the deepest divisions.

Paul’s letter to the Romans is structured into three profound themes—Faith (chapters 1-4), Hope (chapters 5-11), and Love (chapters 12-16)—each addressing different aspects of Christian life. Faith reflects on the past, emphasizing justification and the believer’s foundational relationship with God. Hope looks to the future, reinforcing the promises of salvation and God’s enduring plan. Love speaks to the present, guiding the church in how to live out their faith in daily life.

This structure highlights Paul’s profound message: Faith brings us into relationship with God, Hope assures us of God’s promises, and Love equips us to live transformed lives. Romans offers an enduring framework for living out the gospel in a divided world.

The Book of Romans covers profound theological topics that define the Christian faith. Early in the letter, Paul addresses sin and humanity’s universal need for redemption, declaring that all are under condemnation apart from Christ. Paul underscores that it is only through Jesus, the “Spirit of Life,” that one can be saved from the bondage of sin. This leads to the foundational doctrine of justification—that we are saved by faith alone, not by works. But Paul balances this by warning that grace does not grant a license to sin; rather, true faith calls believers to live in liberty, free from sin’s dominion, yet guided by God’s standards.

Romans also delves into sanctification, describing it as the ongoing process of salvation. Sanctification is not self-manufactured; it is the work of God, calling believers to continually trust in Him for daily transformation. Though God initiates this work, believers must actively participate by living out their faith with daily dedication.

Another major theme is glorification, the final stage of salvation. Paul describes a future state in which believers are fully freed from sin’s presence and temptation, able to rest fully in their salvation and relationship with God. This ultimate freedom awaits believers, promising a day when earthly struggles give way to eternal joy.

In chapters 9-11, Paul tackles a critical issue: Israel’s relationship to the church and God’s ongoing covenant with the Jewish people. This section addresses and refutes “replacement theology,” a belief that the church has replaced Israel in God’s plan. Paul asserts that God’s promises to Israel remain intact and that Gentile believers should resist arrogance, recognizing the church’s place as part of, not in place of, God’s larger plan. These chapters serve as a crucial pivot in Romans, reminding readers of God’s faithfulness to His people.

Toward the letter’s conclusion, Paul offers guidance on the “grey areas” of Christian living, encouraging believers to act according to their convictions. Issues such as dietary practices, observing Sabbath days, and cultural traditions are treated with a spirit of flexibility, showing that mature faith allows for personal convictions within the bounds of love and respect for others. This principle of flexibility is deeply relevant today, inviting believers to embrace unity amidst diversity.

The Book of Romans remains an unparalleled exploration of foundational Christian beliefs, urging believers to understand the depth of salvation, the power of grace, and the call to unity. Each theme builds toward a vision of a life transformed by faith, challenging readers to live boldly for Christ in a world divided by differences.

In the Book of Romans, Paul presents one of the most intense and personal expressions of his faith, particularly in chapters 9-11. His sorrow for Israel’s stubbornness is so deep that he makes an extraordinary statement: if he could trade his own salvation to see his fellow Jews recognize Jesus as their Messiah, he would do so. This profound declaration reflects Paul’s love for his people and his commitment to the gospel’s call for unity between Jew and Gentile.

In these chapters, Paul grapples with a difficult reality—God’s sovereignty in choosing whom He will show mercy to, emphasizing that no one deserves mercy by their own merit. Instead, mercy is a gift God bestows to fulfill His greater purpose. Paul’s insights here remind readers that faith is rooted not in entitlement, but in the grace that no one can claim by right.

Paul’s treatment of unity between Jew and Gentile is unprecedented, revealing his vision of a church where diversity strengthens faith. Through logical reasoning grounded in faith, Paul demonstrates how Gentile believers can grow spiritually by honoring the Jewish roots of their faith, without undermining the unity Christ brings. Romans is more than theological; it’s practical guidance on how to build a thriving, united church.

As many scholars and readers agree, Romans may be Paul’s most powerful work. His clear reasoning, passionate plea for unity, and profound insights make Romans a foundational text that continues to guide believers in understanding grace, community, and the boundless mercy of God. So what is the role of justification?

Find out next week.

Until then, you can stop by Writeious Books for further reading and insights or to explore all that I’ve put my hand to, including my books and music, visit Writeious Books and have a little snack as I serve you up some food for thought! Create. Inspire. Repeat.

Written by Jori Sams

Rather listen to the podcast? Coming Soon!

The Book of Romans stands out in the New Testament as one of the most profound and comprehensive explorations of Christian doctrine. Written by the Apostle Paul, Romans delves into the essentials of the Christian life—faith, hope, and love—each theme forming a foundational aspect of a believer’s walk with God. Romans covers key issues like justification by faith, the hope of eternal life, the call to live a transformed life, and the purpose of the Law within a life of faith. Paul’s strategic division of Romans into faith (chapters 1-4), hope (chapters 5-11), and love (chapters 12-16) creates a complete roadmap for the Christian journey. Let’s explore how these powerful themes intertwine to create a blueprint for every follower of Christ.

One of the most revolutionary doctrines of Christianity is the concept of justification by faith, which Paul explains in Romans 1-4. Justification refers to the divine act where God declares a person righteous based on their faith in Jesus Christ, not by their adherence to the Law or good works. For Paul, this was a monumental shift, especially for Jewish believers who had traditionally depended on the Mosaic Law to define their relationship with God. He argues that all people, Jews and Gentiles alike, are equally under the weight of sin and, therefore, in need of salvation.

Paul’s letter clarifies that no one can achieve righteousness through their works alone. He states boldly in Romans 3:23, “For all have sinned and fall short of the glory of God.” This assertion emphasizes that, apart from divine intervention, humanity is utterly incapable of meeting God’s standards. Justification by faith removes the pressure of legalistic obedience and places the focus on a faith-centered relationship with God. This concept is captured beautifully in Faith, Hope, and Love in Romans: Understanding Justification, Transformation, and the Role of the Law

This foundational teaching creates a humbling realization—our salvation is solely a gift from God’s grace, accessible through faith in Jesus Christ. Paul’s teaching on justification reminds us that faith is not simply a mental belief but an active trust in God’s mercy. For the modern Christian, justification by faith encourages humility, gratitude, and reliance on God’s grace rather than self-righteousness. It assures us that salvation is not something we earn but something we receive, and this reality forms the unshakeable foundation of the Christian life.

After laying the groundwork with justification, Paul moves to the theme of hope in Romans 5-11. Here, hope is presented not as mere optimism but as a concrete expectation based on God’s promises. Hope becomes especially critical because it addresses the ongoing process of sanctification, where believers are shaped and refined through trials and struggles. Unlike the justification moment, which is instantaneous, sanctification is a lifelong journey that requires persistence, faith, and hope in what lies ahead.

Paul reminds believers that the present difficulties are temporary and that the glory awaiting them far outweighs the challenges. This message is poignantly captured in Romans 8:18: “For I consider that the sufferings of this present time are not worth comparing with the glory that is to be revealed to us.” This verse provides encouragement and context for believers facing hardship, helping them to see their current struggles as part of a larger story of redemption. Paul underscores that hope in Christ is not a passive wish but an anchor that gives believers strength to endure adversity with confidence.

Moreover, Paul’s discussion on hope reveals his understanding of God’s faithfulness and sovereignty. Hope is rooted in the assurance that God, who has begun a good work, will see it through to completion. In Romans 8:28, Paul writes, “And we know that in all things God works for the good of those who love him, who have been called according to his purpose.” This message reassures believers that even their darkest moments serve a divine purpose and contribute to their spiritual growth.

For modern Christians, this section on hope encourages a mindset shift. Rather than viewing struggles as setbacks, they can see them as integral to their faith journey, knowing that God uses all things to work toward their ultimate good. Hope, therefore, becomes a firm conviction that God is at work, providing strength and purpose even amid trials.

Having covered faith and hope, Paul turns to the theme of love in Romans 12-16. Here, love is not an abstract ideal but a practical guide for Christian living. Paul begins this section with a call to transformation in Romans 12:1-2, urging believers to offer themselves as a “living sacrifice” and to be “transformed by the renewal of [their] mind.” This transformation involves a radical shift in how believers view themselves, the world, and God’s purpose for their lives.

Paul’s instruction here emphasizes that love is both the motive and the outcome of a transformed life. Through the Holy Spirit, believers are empowered to live in ways that reflect Christ’s love in their interactions with others. Paul speaks on practical issues like humility, serving others, hospitality, and unity within the church, showing how a life of love impacts every aspect of relationships and community. Romans 12:10 reminds believers to “Love one another with brotherly affection. Outdo one another in showing honor.” This call to active love challenges believers to create environments of mutual respect and service.

In chapters 12-16, Paul’s focus on love is a reminder that the Christian faith is not merely about personal piety but about embodying God’s love in tangible ways. This lifestyle of love is essential for fostering unity in a diverse community of believers, where cultural and ethnic divisions (Jew and Gentile) might otherwise threaten harmony. By encouraging love, Paul sets forth a vision of the church as a cohesive body, living out the gospel through their actions and relationships.

For contemporary Christians, Paul’s teaching on love as the ultimate expression of faith challenges us to consider how we can serve and honor others in our daily lives. This section provides practical guidance on being agents of Christ’s love in our families, workplaces, and communities, showing the world what it means to live a life transformed by God.

A unique aspect of Romans is Paul’s treatment of the Law. While he firmly teaches that believers are justified by faith and not by the Law, he does not dismiss the Law’s importance. For Paul, the Law reveals God’s holiness and human sinfulness, acting as a mirror that shows believers their need for Christ. However, in a life of faith, the Law no longer functions as a means to earn righteousness but as a guide for holy living.

Paul argues that while the Law cannot save, it remains valuable as a moral standard that points believers toward godly character. Romans 7:7 explains, “Yet if it had not been for the law, I would not have known sin.” This highlights the Law’s role in illuminating the believer’s conscience, helping them recognize and turn away from sin. Paul’s teaching on the Law ultimately points to Jesus, who fulfills the Law’s demands and enables believers to live in a way that pleases God through the Holy Spirit.

This section in Romans provides clarity on how believers should view the Law without falling into legalism or disregarding it. Christians are called to live a life of obedience, not out of fear or a desire to earn salvation, but out of gratitude for what Christ has done. By guiding the believer’s behavior, the Law, combined with the Spirit’s work, empowers them to grow in godliness.

For the modern Christian, Paul’s teaching on the Law serves as a reminder to pursue holiness while relying on God’s grace. It encourages a balanced perspective that honors God’s moral standards without being enslaved by them. The Law, when rightly understood, becomes an expression of love and reverence for God, shaping a life that reflects His character.

Romans provides a masterful overview of the Christian life through its focus on faith, hope, and love. Paul begins with justification by faith, the foundation of our relationship with God, and then moves to hope as the assurance of future glory, sustained by God’s promises. Finally, he teaches on love as the practical outworking of faith and hope, calling believers to embody Christ’s love in their relationships and communities.

Together, these themes form a complete picture of what it means to follow Jesus. Romans teaches that the Christian journey is not a static experience but a dynamic transformation shaped by faith in Christ, hope for the future, and love in action. As we embrace these themes, we are invited to live a life of purpose, grounded in God’s grace and empowered by His Spirit.

In studying Romans, believers gain a blueprint for a life that honors God and impacts others. This letter remains as relevant today as when Paul first penned it, offering timeless truths that challenge, encourage, and inspire every follower of Christ to live fully and freely in the light of God’s mercy.

So what does it mean to be free from sin? Find out in my next episode.

Until then, you can stop by Writeious Books for further reading and insights or to explore all that I’ve put my hand to, including my books and music, visit Writeious Books and have a little snack as I serve you up some food for thought! Create. Inspire. Repeat.

Written by Jori Sams