Imagine yourself living in Rome, Italy during the latter half of the first century. All around you are the evidences of an empire that has achieved world domination. Nevertheless, arrogance and prejudice exist among Roman citizens, corruption abounds in its politics, vanity coupled with violence reigns upon the throne, and religions from distant lands permeate the city. Philosophies and mythologies have been adopted from conquered nations, and many different languages are heard in the streets. Certain Jewish people returning from a 1,300-mile trip to Jerusalem in Israel speak of a Teacher Who claimed to be the Son of the one, true God. Although He had been crucified nearly two decades ago, His Gospel message has spread westward over the Roman Empire from Israel. Many of His followers, called “Christians,” have relocated to the city of Rome where a church is formed. One of these Christ-followers tell you of the story of Jesus and present Him as the only Way of salvation to you. You believe this Gospel and are baptized, but what, you wonder, is all involved in this faith you have now received. How helpful would be this letter given of the Holy Spirit through the pen of the Apostle Paul to you, your church, your city, and throughout the world!
The epistle of Romans is a highly doctrinal book of the New Testament, but it is also positively practical, as well as surprisingly simple to understand and share with others. To take the book of Romans in a single gulp might leave a person with a spiritually bloated stomach. But, to take the book one bite at a time, in small portions, chapter after chapter, will prove to be the best method to gain the spiritual nourishment intended of God for every believer. To this aim, we embark upon a series of lessons in the book of Romans. I invite you to join us each week at 10:00 AM during our Sunday School hour as we examine this phenomenal and beneficial book found in the New Testament portion of God’s Word.