Romans Part 45
Romans teaches that God's grace calls us, Christ makes salvation possible, God's Spirit transforms us, and faithful obedience is our response to that calling.
The book of Romans presents a comprehensive explanation of God's plan for mankind, beginning with humanity's universal need for salvation and culminating in the incredible future God has prepared for those He calls. Paul begins by establishing that all people have sinned and stand in need of God's mercy. Possessing God's law is not enough, and God will judge Jews and Gentiles by the same standards. It does not matter how one came to the knowledge of the truth of God’s law; what does matter is living by it through a genuine relationship with God. Paul demonstrates that no one can earn salvation through piety and one’s ability to keep every aspect of the law perfectly. Rather, we all sin and fall short, therefore justification comes through faith in Jesus Christ, whose sacrifice makes reconciliation with God possible.
Paul uses Abraham as an example of faith, showing that God's promises have always been based on faith rather than physical lineage or human achievement. Through Christ, believers can have peace with God and look forward to sharing in His future glory. Romans 5 introduces the contrast between Adam and Christ. Adam brought sin and death into the world, while Christ makes righteousness and life possible. God's grace is therefore far greater than the damage caused by sin.
Romans 6 and 7 explain what this grace means for the Christian life. Grace is not permission to continue living in sin. Those who have been called must leave their former way of life behind and become servants of righteousness. Paul describes the struggle against sin and the limitations of the flesh, crying out,
“O wretched man that I am! Who will deliver me from this body of death?” (Romans 7:24).
The answer is Jesus Christ.
Romans 8 then looks forward to the tremendous future God has planned. Those who are led by God's Spirit are children of God and heirs with Christ. God's people will ultimately be glorified, transformed from mortal flesh into spirit, and will share in Christ's rule over the earth. The whole creation is waiting for this transformation. Present suffering in this physical life cannot compare with the glory that will be revealed in those who diligently seek God. Nothing external can separate God's faithful people from His love.
Romans 9–11 addresses Israel's relationship to God's plan. Israel's rejection of the Messiah does not mean God's promises have failed. God has always worked according to His purpose and calling, and He has preserved a faithful remnant. Gentiles have now been brought into God's plan, but Israel has not been permanently rejected. Paul looks forward to a time when God will remove their spiritual blindness and extend His mercy to them and ultimately to all mankind.
Romans 12–16 turns from doctrine to Christian living. Because of God's mercy, believers are to offer themselves completely to God, allowing Him to transform their minds and character. Christians are called to serve one another, use their gifts, love sincerely, pursue peace, pray continually, care for others, and overcome evil with good. They are also instructed to respect human authority, pay what is owed, and live peaceably when possible.
Romans 14–15 emphasizes humility and unity when Christians disagree over matters of opinion. We must distinguish between God's clear commands and matters where individuals may hold different convictions. Rather than judging one another, Christians should seek peace and avoid becoming obstacles for one another.
Finally, Romans 16 provides a personal picture of the Church, highlighting many faithful men and women who served God's people. Paul closes by warning against division and false teaching and then returns to the great mystery of God's plan. The gospel is being extended to all nations so that people may come to “the obedience of faith” (Romans 16:26).
Romans teaches that God's grace calls us, Christ makes salvation possible, God's Spirit transforms us, and faithful obedience is our response to that calling. The entire plan points toward the resurrection, the Kingdom of God, the glorification of His children, and the eventual reconciliation of mankind. And through it all, the glory belongs to God.
Epistles of Paul is a course taught at ABC by Mr. Steve Myers. Recordings from the 2023–2024 class year are available on the ABC website.
UYA Team | uya@ucg.org
United Young Adults (UYA) primarily serves the 18–32-year age group for the United Church of God. There are three main areas of contribution to the lives of young adults: Promoting Spiritual Growth, Developing Meaningful Relationships and Making the Most of Your Talents. The Know Your Sword series is a daily expository message introducing God’s Word from a trusted perspective.
