Romans 1:8-17

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TALKS FOR GROWING CHRISTIANS

The Theme of Romans

BACKGROUND NOTES



DOCTRINAL POINT(S)

  1. The gospel of God reveals the power of God.

  2. The gospel of God reveals the righteousness of God.

PRACTICAL APPLICATION

  1. Are you paying off your debts?

  2. Are you ashamed of the gospel?

  3. Don’t be discouraged if God says “No” to your godly plans.

QUESTIONS

  1. Refer to Romans 1:8. Why was Paul giving thanks?

  2. When did Paul write this letter to the Romans?

  3. How does the gospel of God reveal the power of God?

  4. Does God lower His standards to save sinful people?

  5. Is sharing the good news optional for the believer?

ANSWERS

  1. He was thankful for the believers at Rome and thankful for their Christian testimony, which was known throughout the whole world (that is, the Roman Empire).

  2. About 57-58 A.D.

  3. The good news is the power of God. Intrinsic to the gospel is the power of God to save and transform lives when the good news is believed.

  4. No, although we are saved by God’s grace and mercy, He does not lower or compromise His standards. Believers are declared righteous as they accept by faith the sacrifice of Christ.

  5. No. Paul wrote that he was a debtor to both Greeks and barbarians, both to the wise and unwise. The Lord brings us into contact with many people from all walks of life. We are the means God used to get the good news to them. It is our responsibility, not an option.

DISCUSS/CONSIDER

  1. The Roman persecutions followed the great fire in Rome in AD 64, when Nero blamed the Christians for the fire. Some of these Christians would be martyred for their faith in Christ. Would you be so faithful under such conditions?

  2. Paul prayed for the Christians undergoing persecution. How faithful are you in praying for believers around the world who are even now undergoing great persecution?

CHALLENGE

  1. Have you experienced the power of God to save and transform your life? Have you experienced the power of God to save you from the penalty and power of sin in your life? Are you sharing this good news?

KEY VERSES

  • “…without ceasing I make mention of you always in my prayers.” Romans 1:9

  • “I am not ashamed of the gospel of Christ, for it is the power of God to salvation for everyone who believes.” Romans 1:16



Romans, Talks, New TestamentDeb HarmsRomans 1:8-17