Lecture Notes: Study of the Book of Romans

Introduction

• Books in Focus: Romans and Acts
• Past Study Recap:
  • Romans' influence on historical events like the Reformation and the Great Awakening.
  • Figures influenced: Martin Luther, John Wesley, William Tyndale.
  • Romans is rich in theological content but not written primarily for theology.

Purpose of Romans

• Paul's Intention: Not purely theological; situational.
• Paul's Audience: Initially to the Jews, then the Gentiles.
• Reason for Writing: Strife between Jews and Gentiles in the early Roman churches.

Historical Context

• Jewish Expulsion and Return:
  • Emperor Claudius restricted Jewish gatherings in 41 AD and expelled them in 49 AD.
  • Nero allowed Jews back in after five years.
• Church Composition: Started Jewish, became Gentile, then mixed again.

Key Themes in Romans

• Misinterpretations by Reformers: Believed solely focused on justification by faith.
• Focus on Situational Purpose: Addressing Jew-Gentile strife.

Acts References

• Acts 15 - Jerusalem Council: Reflects strife over circumcision and law for Gentiles.
• Acts 18 - Aquila and Priscilla: Met Paul and informed him about Roman church issues.

Structure of Romans

• Dates and Authorship: Written around 57 AD by Paul.
• Division of Content:
  • Chapters 1-8: Primarily directed at Jews.
  • Chapters 9-16: Primarily directed at Gentiles.
• Doxologies and Letter Endings: Possible multiple sections, but accepted as one letter.

Key Verses

• Romans 1:16-17: Gospel is the power of God, applicable to Jew and Greek.
• Romans Chapters 9-11: Discussion on Israel, Jews' role in salvation.

Content Analysis

• Jews and Gentiles: Examination of their roles and Paul’s addressing of both.
• Interpretation Challenges: Ambiguities in text caused by terms like "also."

Conclusion

• Purpose of Romans: Bring unity to Jews and Gentiles in faith.
• Understanding Context: Essential to correctly interpret Romans.
• Next Steps: Detailed, verse-by-verse study with context in mind.

Discussion Points:

• The role of Jews and Gentiles in early church conflict.
• Paul’s strategic approach in addressing early church issues.