Introduction: As we continue our study of the Book of Romans, we find that the Apostle Paul
introduces himself in verse 1. Though he had never met the Roman Christians, he wanted to establish his credibility. In that time, many people falsely claimed to be servants of God, often for personal gain—a situation not so different from today. Paul not only introduced himself personally but also presented his divine mission. This introduction laid the foundation for the rest of the Book of Romans, which covers the core aspects of the Christian faith. From the Gospel to deeper spiritual truths, Paul shares God's wisdom with the Roman believers—and through this, we, too, are invited to encounter life-changing truths.
In our previous discussion, we focused on Paul's credentials as we looked at the facts about the messenger. We learned that Paul was both a servant and an ambassador, specially chosen to spread the Gospel to the world. Tonight, we continue to explore Paul's credentials as we delve into verses 2 through 7.
I. The Facts About the Messenger (Romans 1:1)
II. The Foundation of Paul's Message (Romans 1:2-5) In these verses, Paul emphasizes that his message is centered on the person of Jesus Christ.
A. Jesus Is the Promised One (Romans 1:2) The Gospel of Jesus Christ—the story of His death and resurrection—was not a sudden plan but a part of God’s eternal purpose. God had long promised the coming of His Son, who would die for humanity's sins. This plan is as old as creation itself, as seen in Revelation 13:8.
- Old Testament Scriptures point to the Messiah (John 5:39).
- Isaiah foretells the sacrifice of the Messiah (Isaiah 53:1-12).
- Types and symbols in the Old Testament (such as Adam, the Ark, the Manna, and the sacrificial system) point to the coming Savior. Every lamb sacrificed was a testament to the One who would come to take away the sins of the world.
B. Jesus Is the Powerful One (Romans 1:3-4) The Gospel is not just a recounting of prophecies—it is about a living person: Jesus Christ. These verses highlight His divine power and eternal position.
His Position: Jesus is the Son of God. He was not just an ordinary man, but God incarnate, as described in Luke 1:35. Philippians 2:5-8 explains the mystery of how Jesus, the eternal Son of God, took on human flesh. As the God-man, He was fully God and fully man—an awe-inspiring reality.
- In Philippians 2:6, Jesus existed in the “form” of God, meaning He was fully God in essence.
- In verse 7, He “took upon Himself the form of a servant”—becoming fully human.
- Verse 8 affirms that He was physically a man and experienced the fullness of humanity, except without sin.
His Person: Paul uses three titles for Jesus to describe Him:
- Jesus: His human name, signifying His humility (demons often addressed Him by this name alone).
- Christ: His official title, meaning "the Anointed One," fulfilling the roles of Prophet, Priest, and King.
- Lord: The title of His exaltation, reminding us that Jesus conquered death and is the reigning King (Acts 2:36).
His Pedigree (Romans 1:3-4): Jesus' lineage affirms both His humanity and divinity:
- Human Credentials: He descended from the line of David, qualifying Him to be the King of the Jews (Matthew 1:1).
- Heavenly Credentials: Jesus’ righteousness and resurrection declare His divine origin:
- He lived without sin (2 Corinthians 5:21; Hebrews 4:15).
- His resurrection proves His power over death (John 10:18).
Jesus’ life and resurrection serve as clear evidence of His dual nature as both Son of God and Son of David.
C. Jesus Is the Performing One (Romans 1:5) Paul reminds the Romans that they have received three blessings through Jesus Christ:
- Grace: God's unmerited favor, by which we are saved and sustained (Ephesians 2:8-9).
- Gifts: The calling to serve in God’s mission, as apostles and witnesses of His glory (Acts 1:8).
Witnessing is not reserved for church leaders alone—every believer is called to share the Gospel with the world (Matthew 28:19-20; Mark 16:15).
III. The Focus of His Ministry (Romans 1:6-7) In the final verses, Paul shifts his focus to the Roman believers, showing that what was true for them is also true for us.
A. Called to Be Saved (Romans 1:6) Paul reminds the Romans—and us—that salvation is a divine calling. In our natural state, we are dead to God (Ephesians 2:1), but the Holy Spirit quickens us to hear God’s call to salvation. We cannot choose the moment of our salvation; it is God who draws us (John 6:44).
The glories of salvation include:
- Our sins being taken away (John 1:29; Psalm 103:12).
- Being claimed by God as His own (1 John 3:1-2).
- Being declared righteous in His sight (1 Corinthians 6:9-11).
B. Called to Be Sons (Romans 1:7a) Paul describes the Roman believers as "beloved of God." While God loves all people, believers have a special relationship with Him. God’s love for His children surpasses all other forms of love, as seen in His commitment to the church (John 3:16).
C. Called to Be Saints (Romans 1:7b) The Roman Christians were called to be “saints”—holy and set apart for God’s service. This call is not just for them but for all believers. Christians are expected to live differently from the world, as “new creatures” in Christ (2 Corinthians 5:17). Our lives should reflect the holiness of God, setting us apart from the sin of the world (1 John 2:6).
Conclusion: As Paul concludes his introduction, he offers a blessing of peace and grace to the Romans, a prayer that we too can embrace today. If you are facing struggles, know that Jesus Christ is the answer. If you are lost, He will save you. If you have strayed from His will, He will welcome you back into His fellowship.
Let us reflect on Paul's message: Will you allow the Lord to work in your life tonight? Whether in salvation or sanctification, He stands ready to meet your needs
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