◄ Romans 1 ►
Book Sum People Lessons Que
Berean Standard Bible | Par ▾
Paul Greets the Saints in Rome 1Paul, a servant of Christ Jesus, called to be an apostle, and set apart for the gospel of God— 2the gospel He promised beforehand through His prophets in the Holy Scriptures, 3regarding His Son, who was a descendant of David according to the flesh, 4and who through the Spirit of holiness was declared with power to be the Son of God by His resurrection from the dead: Jesus Christ our Lord. 5Through Him and on behalf of His name, we received grace and apostleship to call all those among the Gentiles to the obedience that comes from faith. 6And you also are among those who are called to belong to Jesus Christ. 7To all in Rome who are loved by God and called to be saints: Grace and peace to you from God our Father and the Lord Jesus Christ. Unashamed of the Gospel 8First, I thank my God through Jesus Christ for all of you, because your faith is being proclaimed all over the world. 9God, whom I serve with my spirita in preaching the gospel of His Son, is my witness how constantly I remember you 10in my prayers at all times, asking that now at last by God’s will I may succeed in coming to you. 11For I long to see you so that I may impart to you some spiritual gift to strengthen you, 12that is, that you and I may be mutually encouraged by each other’s faith. 13I do not want you to be unaware, brothers, how often I planned to come to you (but have been prevented from visitingb until now), in order that I might have a harvest among you, just as I have had among the other Gentiles. 14I am obligated both to Greeks and non-Greeks,c both to the wise and the foolish. 15That is why I am so eager to preach the gospel also to you who are in Rome. 16I am not ashamed of the gospel, because it is the power of God for salvation to everyone who believes, first to the Jew, then to the Greek. 17For the gospel reveals the righteousness of God that comes by faith from start to finish,d just as it is written: “The righteous will live by faith.”e God’s Wrath against Sin 18The wrath of God is being revealed from heaven against all the godlessness and wickedness of men who suppress the truth by their wickedness. 19For what may be known about God is plain to them, because God has made it plain to them. 20For since the creation of the world God’s invisible qualities, His eternal power and divine nature, have been clearly seen, being understood from His workmanship, so that men are without excuse. 21For although they knew God, they neither glorified Him as God nor gave thanks to Him, but they became futile in their thinking and darkened in their foolish hearts. 22Although they claimed to be wise, they became fools, 23and exchanged the glory of the immortal God for images of mortal man and birds and animals and reptiles. 24Therefore God gave them over in the desires of their hearts to impurity for the dishonoring of their bodies with one another. 25They exchanged the truth of God for a lie, and worshiped and served the creature rather than the Creator, who is forever worthy of praise!f Amen. 26For this reason God gave them over to dishonorable passions. Even their women exchanged natural relations for unnatural ones. 27Likewise, the men abandoned natural relations with women and burned with lust for one another. Men committed indecent acts with other men and received in themselves the due penalty for their error. 28Furthermore, since they did not see fit to acknowledge God, He gave them up to a depraved mind, to do what ought not to be done. 29They have become filled with every kind of wickedness, evil, greed, and depravity. They are full of envy, murder, strife, deceit, and malice. They are gossips, 30slanderers, God-haters, insolent, arrogant, and boastful. They invent new forms of evil; they disobey their parents. 31They are senseless, faithless, heartless, merciless. 32Although they know God’s righteous decree that those who do such things are worthy of death, they not only continue to do these things, but also approve of those who practice them. Footnotes: 9 a Or in my spirit 13 b Literally but have been prevented 14 c Literally to Greeks and barbarians 17 d Literally For in it is revealed the righteousness of God from faith to faith 17 e Habakkuk 2:4 25 f Or forever blessed Berean Standard Bible (BSB) printed 2016, 2020, 2022, 2025 by Bible Hub and Berean.Bible. Produced in cooperation with Bible Hub, Discovery Bible, unfoldingWord, Bible Aquifer, OpenBible.com, and the Berean Bible Translation Committee. This text of God's Word has been dedicated to the public domain. Free downloads and unlimited usage available. See also the Berean Literal Bible and Berean Interlinear Bible. Bible Hub Romans 1 Summary Unashamed of the Gospel Verses 1–7 – Greeting and Calling Paul opens with the words, “Paul, a servant of Jesus Christ” (v.1), introducing himself as a messenger set apart for the good news promised in the Scriptures. He acknowledges Jesus as the Son of David and Son of God and extends grace and peace to believers in Rome whom he calls “beloved” and “called to be saints.” Verses 8–15 – Thanksgiving and Travel Plans He thanks God because their faith is talked about everywhere, emphasizes constant prayer, and shares his longing to visit so that both he and they might be strengthened. Paul feels an obligation to every culture and class, eager to preach in the capital city. Verses 16–17 – The Gospel’s Power and Gift of Faith Unashamed of the message, Paul declares it God’s power to save all who believe—Jew first, then Gentile. In it God’s righteousness is uncovered, confirming, “The righteous will live by faith” (v.17). Verses 18–23 – Clear Revelation, Chosen Blindness God’s present anger rests on all who suppress truth. The visible world makes His eternal power obvious, yet people refuse to honor Him, exchange His glory for images of created things, and slide into futile thinking. Verses 24–32 – Handed Over to a Downward Spiral Because of stubborn idolatry, “God gave them over” (v.24) to dishonor their bodies, trading natural intimacy for distorted practices, and finally to a corrupt mind. A long list of social sins follows—envy, murder, deceit, disobedience to parents, and more. Knowing such actions deserve judgment, people still applaud them. Romans 1 is the opening chapter of Paul's letter to the Romans. This chapter introduces the key themes of the Gospel, righteousness, faith, and the wrath of God against sin. Paul writes to believers in Rome, expressing his longing to visit them and share in their faith. Authorship and Date • Writer: Paul, nearing the end of his third journey (Acts 20). • Location: Likely Corinth; references to Phoebe of Cenchrea (16:1-2) support this. • Time: Around AD 57, early in Nero’s reign. Recipients and Setting • Mixed house churches of Jews and Gentiles. • Rome’s bustling streets held temples to Jupiter, Venus, and the imperial cult—an atmosphere matching Paul’s comments on idolatry. • The recent return of Jews after Claudius’s expulsion (Acts 18:2) meant tensions over food laws and calendar days still simmered (see chs. 14–15). Purpose of Chapter 1 in the Larger Letter 1. Signal that the gospel unites everyone under the same need and the same rescue. 2. Show why God is right to judge: humanity has ignored unmistakable evidence of Him. 3. Prepare the ground for the good news of chapters 3–8 by revealing the bad news first. Key Ideas in Everyday Language • Good news is for all people. • Faith—not pedigree or personal effort—opens the door. • Creation itself is a constant sermon about God. • When worship is misdirected, life becomes misdirected. • Sin starts in the heart, shows up in the body, and spills out into society. Old-Testament Echoes • Servant language: Isaiah 42:1 • Davidic promise: 2 Samuel 7:12-14 • “Live by faith”: Habakkuk 2:4 • Creation witness: Psalm 19:1; Genesis 1–2 Links to the Gospels and Acts • Jesus on marriage: Matthew 19:4-6 affirms Genesis design that Paul builds on in vv. 26-27. • Paul’s earlier sermons: Acts 14:15-17 (Lystra) and Acts 17:24-31 (Athens) echo the same argument—creation testifies, idols deceive. Word-Study Highlights • Gospel (euangelion): good news announced by a herald. • Wrath: steady, settled opposition of God to evil, not a quick temper. • Righteousness: God’s commitment to set things right and declare right those who trust Him. “God Handed Them Over” – What It Means Rather than instant punishment, God allows willful choices to run their course, so consequences become clear. Similar patterns appear in: • Psalm 81:12 – “So I gave them over to their stubborn hearts.” • Hosea 4:17 – “Ephraim is joined to idols; leave him alone.” The Greco-Roman World and Idolatry Archaeology uncovers household shrines (lararia) in Roman homes, statues of emperors, and fertility symbols. Such everyday idol practice fits Paul’s description of exchanging the Creator for images (vv. 23, 25). Sexual Ethics in Context • Same-sex behavior was common in Roman society, from temple prostitution to upper-class mentorships. • Paul roots his view in Genesis 1:27 and 2:24—male and female reflecting God’s image. • He places these acts among many other sins, underscoring that all fall short (3:23). Vice List Explained (vv. 29-31) • Envy & Murder: jealousy that grows violent (cf. Cain in Genesis 4). • God-haters: active hostility toward the divine (cf. Psalm 14:1). • Inventors of evil: creative in wrongdoing; technology or intellect used destructively. • Disobedient to parents: breakdown of the first human authority structure. Archaeological Notes • Inscription in Corinth naming “Erastus” the city treasurer (compare Romans 16:23) shows Paul’s network included civic officials. • Frescoes in Pompeii (buried AD 79) depict the kinds of sexual excess Paul lists, illustrating the cultural setting. Why Paul Begins with Bad News • Like a doctor giving a diagnosis before a cure, Paul reveals the universal problem. • The shocking picture of sin levels the ground—no one can claim moral high ground. Practical Implications for Believers Today • Live unashamed of the gospel in environments that prize other loyalties. • Let nature’s beauty point you to worship, not be worshiped itself. • See sin’s chain reaction early and turn back quickly. • Remember: the same gospel that saved first-century Romans still saves twenty-first-century people. Connections to Additional Scriptures Habakkuk 2:4 Behold the proud, his soul is not upright in him; but the just shall live by his faith. This Old Testament reference reinforces the principle of living by faith. 1 Corinthians 1:18 For the message of the cross is foolishness to those who are perishing, but to us who are being saved it is the power of God. This verse echoes the power of the Gospel mentioned in Romans 1:16. Psalm 14:1 The fool says in his heart, 'There is no God.' They are corrupt; their acts are vile. There is no one who does good. This Psalm parallels the description of humanity's rejection of God in Romans 1. Teaching Points The Power of the Gospel Romans 1:16 states, I am not ashamed of the gospel, because it is the power of God for salvation to everyone who believes, first to the Jew, then to the Greek. The Gospel is the divine power that brings salvation to all who believe, transcending cultural and ethnic boundaries. Revelation of God's Righteousness Romans 1:17 reveals, For the gospel reveals the righteousness of God that comes by faith from start to finish, just as it is written: 'The righteous will live by faith.' This verse emphasizes that righteousness is a gift from God, received through faith, not by works. Humanity's Rejection of God Romans 1:21-23 describes humanity's willful ignorance and idolatry: For although they knew God, they neither glorified Him as God nor gave thanks to Him, but they became futile in their thinking and darkened in their foolish hearts. This passage highlights the consequences of turning away from God. God's Righteous Judgment Romans 1:24-32 outlines the consequences of rejecting God, as He gave them over to the desires of their hearts (v. 24). This section underscores the reality of God's judgment on sin and the moral decline that follows when people reject His truth. Practical Applications Embrace the Gospel Boldly Like Paul, we should not be ashamed of the Gospel. Share your faith with confidence, knowing it is the power of God for salvation. Live by Faith Trust in God's righteousness and live by faith, understanding that our standing before God is based on faith, not our own efforts. Guard Against Idolatry Examine your life for anything that may take the place of God in your heart. Prioritize worship and gratitude towards God. Recognize the Consequences of Sin Acknowledge the seriousness of sin and its impact on our lives and society. Seek God's forgiveness and strive to live according to His will. People 1. Paul Description: The author of the letter, Paul identifies himself as "a servant of Christ Jesus, called to be an apostle, and set apart for the gospel of God" (Romans 1:1). The Greek term for "servant" is "δοῦλος" (doulos), indicating a bondservant or slave, emphasizing his complete devotion to Christ. 2. Jesus Christ Description: Referred to as "His Son," Jesus is central to the gospel message Paul preaches. Paul describes Jesus as "descended from David according to the flesh" and "declared with power to be the Son of God by His resurrection from the dead" (Romans 1:3-4). The Greek term "Χριστός" (Christos) means "Anointed One" or "Messiah." 3. The Romans (Believers in Rome) Description: The recipients of the letter, they are described as "loved by God and called to be saints" (Romans 1:7). The Greek word for "saints" is "ἅγιοι" (hagioi), meaning "holy ones" or "set apart ones." 4. The Greeks and Barbarians Description: Paul mentions these groups in the context of his obligation to preach the gospel to all people, stating, "I am obligated both to Greeks and non-Greeks, both to the wise and the foolish" (Romans 1:14). The term "Barbarians" (Greek: "βάρβαροι," barbaroi) refers to non-Greek-speaking peoples. 5. The Wise and the Foolish Description: These terms are used to describe different types of people to whom Paul is obligated to preach. "Wise" (Greek: "σοφοί," sophoi) and "foolish" (Greek: "ἀνόητοι," anoetoi) indicate a range of intellectual and cultural backgrounds. 6. The Righteous Description: Paul speaks of "the righteous" in the context of living by faith, quoting Habakkuk 2:4: "The righteous will live by faith" (Romans 1:17). The Greek word for "righteous" is "δίκαιος" (dikaios), meaning just or upright. 7. God Description: While not a human person, God is central to the chapter as the one who reveals His wrath against ungodliness and unrighteousness (Romans 1:18). The Greek term for God is "Θεός" (Theos). Places 1. Rome Paul addresses his letter to the believers in Rome, the capital of the Roman Empire. Rome was a significant center of political power and culture during Paul's time. In Romans 1:7, Paul writes, "To all in Rome who are loved by God and called to be saints: Grace and peace to you from God our Father and the Lord Jesus Christ." The Greek term for Rome is "Ῥώμη" (Rhōmē), highlighting its prominence in the ancient world. 2. Greece While not directly mentioned in Romans 1, Greece is relevant as Paul often traveled through Greek regions during his missionary journeys. The cultural and philosophical influences of Greece were significant in the Roman Empire, and Paul's writings often engage with Greek thought. 3. Israel/Jerusalem Although not explicitly named in Romans 1, Israel, and specifically Jerusalem, is the backdrop of Paul's Jewish heritage and the early Christian movement. The Hebrew roots of the Christian faith are implicit in Paul's writings, as he often references the Law and the Prophets. Events 1. Introduction and Greeting (Romans 1:1-7) Paul introduces himself as a servant of Christ Jesus, called to be an apostle, and set apart for the gospel of God. He emphasizes the gospel's promise through the prophets in the Holy Scriptures concerning God's Son, who was a descendant of David according to the flesh. Paul extends grace and peace to the believers in Rome. 2. Paul's Desire to Visit Rome (Romans 1:8-15) Paul expresses his gratitude for the faith of the Roman believers, which is proclaimed throughout the world. He shares his longing to visit them to impart some spiritual gift and to be mutually encouraged by each other's faith. Paul mentions his obligation to preach the gospel to both Greeks and non-Greeks. 3. The Power of the Gospel (Romans 1:16-17) Paul declares he is not ashamed of the gospel, for it is the power of God for salvation to everyone who believes, first to the Jew, then to the Greek. He explains that the righteousness of God is revealed in the gospel from faith to faith, quoting Habakkuk 2:4, "The righteous will live by faith." 4. God's Wrath Against Sin (Romans 1:18-23) Paul describes how God's wrath is revealed from heaven against all ungodliness and unrighteousness of men who suppress the truth. He explains that God's invisible attributes, eternal power, and divine nature have been clearly seen through creation, leaving people without excuse. Despite knowing God, they neither glorified Him nor gave thanks, leading to futile thinking and darkened hearts. 5. The Consequences of Idolatry (Romans 1:24-25) Because of their idolatry, God gave them over to impurity and the degrading of their bodies. They exchanged the truth of God for a lie and worshiped created things rather than the Creator. 6. Depravity and Its Manifestations (Romans 1:26-32) Paul describes how God gave them over to shameful lusts and unnatural relations. He lists various forms of wickedness, including envy, murder, deceit, and malice. Paul concludes that although they know God's righteous decree that those who practice such things deserve death, they not only continue to do these things but also approve of those who practice them. Lessons from Romans 1 1. The Power of the Gospel Romans 1:16 declares, "For I am not ashamed of the gospel, because it is the power of God for salvation to everyone who believes." This verse reminds us that the gospel is not just good news; it is the very power of God at work. Embrace this power in your life, and let it fuel your passion to share the message of salvation with others. The gospel transforms lives, and as believers, we are called to be its bold ambassadors. 2. The Righteousness of God Revealed In Romans 1:17, we read, "For in the gospel the righteousness of God is revealed—a righteousness that is by faith from first to last." This righteousness is not something we can earn; it is a gift from God, accessible through faith. Understanding this truth liberates us from the burden of trying to achieve righteousness on our own and encourages us to live by faith, trusting in God's perfect plan. 3. The Wrath of God Against Sin Romans 1:18 warns, "The wrath of God is being revealed from heaven against all the godlessness and wickedness of people." This verse serves as a sobering reminder of the seriousness of sin and the reality of God's judgment. It calls us to examine our lives, repent, and turn away from sin, while also motivating us to share the gospel with urgency, knowing that God's wrath is real. 4. The Evidence of God in Creation Romans 1:20 states, "For since the creation of the world God’s invisible qualities—his eternal power and divine nature—have been clearly seen, being understood from what has been made." Creation itself testifies to the existence and majesty of God. Take time to appreciate the beauty and complexity of the world around you, and let it strengthen your faith and awe in the Creator. 5. The Folly of Idolatry Romans 1:22-23 highlights the foolishness of idolatry: "Although they claimed to be wise, they became fools and exchanged the glory of the immortal God for images." Idolatry isn't just about worshiping statues; it includes anything we place above God in our lives. Reflect on what might be taking God's rightful place in your heart, and seek to realign your priorities with His will. 6. The Consequences of Rejecting God Romans 1:24-25 reveals, "Therefore God gave them over in the desires of their hearts to impurity." When people reject God, He allows them to follow their own paths, leading to moral and spiritual decay. This passage serves as a warning to remain steadfast in our faith and to pray for those who have turned away, that they might return to the truth. 7. The Deception of Sinful Desires Romans 1:26-27 discusses how sinful desires can lead people astray. It is crucial to recognize that our desires can deceive us, pulling us away from God's truth. Stay vigilant, immerse yourself in Scripture, and seek the guidance of the Holy Spirit to discern and resist the temptations that come your way. 8. The Importance of a Renewed Mind Romans 1:28 speaks of a "depraved mind" that results from rejecting God. In contrast, we are called to renew our minds through the Word of God. Regularly engage with Scripture, allowing it to transform your thoughts and align them with God's truth. A renewed mind leads to a life that honors God and reflects His love to the world. 9. The Call to Live Righteously Romans 1:32 reminds us that those who practice sin are deserving of death, yet it also highlights the importance of living righteously. As believers, we are called to be set apart, living lives that reflect God's holiness. Strive to be a light in the darkness, demonstrating the love and righteousness of Christ in all you do. 10. The Urgency of the Gospel Message Finally, Romans 1 emphasizes the urgency of sharing the gospel. With the reality of God's wrath and the power of His salvation, we are compelled to spread the good news with urgency and compassion. Let your life be a testament to the transformative power of the gospel, and seize every opportunity to share the hope of Christ with those around you. Topics 1. Introduction and Greeting (Romans 1:1-7) Paul introduces himself as a servant of Christ Jesus, called to be an apostle, and set apart for the gospel of God. He emphasizes the fulfillment of the gospel promised through the prophets in the Holy Scriptures. The Greek term "ἀπόστολος" (apostolos) highlights his role as a messenger or one sent forth. 2. Paul’s Desire to Visit Rome (Romans 1:8-15) Paul expresses his gratitude for the faith of the Roman believers, which is proclaimed throughout the world. He shares his longing to visit them to impart some spiritual gift and to be mutually encouraged by each other's faith. The Greek word "χάρισμα" (charisma) refers to a spiritual gift or grace. 3. The Power of the Gospel (Romans 1:16-17) Paul declares he is not ashamed of the gospel, for it is the power of God for salvation to everyone who believes. The righteousness of God is revealed from faith to faith, as it is written, "The righteous will live by faith." The Greek term "δύναμις" (dynamis) signifies power or might, emphasizing the transformative power of the gospel. 4. God’s Wrath Against Sin (Romans 1:18-23) The wrath of God is revealed from heaven against all ungodliness and unrighteousness of men who suppress the truth. Paul explains that God's invisible attributes have been clearly seen, being understood from what has been made. The Greek word "ἀσέβεια" (asebeia) refers to ungodliness or impiety. 5. The Consequences of Idolatry (Romans 1:24-32) Due to their idolatry and rejection of God, God gave them over to sinful desires and degrading passions. Paul lists various sins and emphasizes that those who practice such things deserve death. The Greek term "παραδίδωμι" (paradidomi) means to give over or hand over, indicating God's judicial act of allowing people to follow their sinful inclinations. Themes 1. The Gospel as the Power of God (Romans 1:16-17) Paul emphasizes that the gospel is "the power of God for salvation to everyone who believes." The Greek word for power, "dynamis," indicates an inherent strength and ability, underscoring the transformative power of the gospel. The righteousness of God is revealed through faith, highlighting the centrality of faith in the Christian life. 2. The Wrath of God Against Ungodliness (Romans 1:18-20) God's wrath is revealed from heaven against all ungodliness and unrighteousness. The Greek term "orge" for wrath signifies a settled, determined indignation. Paul explains that God's invisible attributes, eternal power, and divine nature have been clearly seen, leaving humanity without excuse. 3. The Rejection of God and Its Consequences (Romans 1:21-23) Humanity's failure to honor God leads to futile thinking and darkened hearts. The Greek word "mataioō" for futile suggests emptiness or vanity. This rejection results in idolatry, as people exchange the glory of the immortal God for images resembling creation. 4. God Giving People Over to Sin (Romans 1:24-28) As a consequence of their idolatry, God "gave them over" to impurity and degrading passions. The Greek phrase "paredōken" indicates a judicial act of handing over. This theme highlights the moral and spiritual decline resulting from rejecting God. 5. The Depravity of Humanity (Romans 1:29-31) Paul lists various sins, illustrating the depth of human depravity. The Greek terms used, such as "adikia" (unrighteousness) and "ponēria" (wickedness), depict a comprehensive picture of moral corruption. 6. The Judgment of God (Romans 1:32) Despite knowing God's righteous decree, people continue in sin and approve of others who do the same. This theme underscores the inevitability of divine judgment, as the Greek word "krima" indicates a legal decision or verdict. Prayer Points Pray for boldness to share the Gospel with others, trusting in its power to transform lives. Ask God to strengthen your faith and help you live righteously by His grace. Seek God's guidance in identifying and removing any idols in your life, placing Him at the center of your heart. Pray for a deeper understanding of the consequences of sin and a heart that seeks repentance and alignment with God's will. Answering Tough Questions 1. (Romans 1:20) How does this verse claiming visible proof of God’s nature align with modern scientific findings that explain the universe without a divine cause? 2. (Romans 1:18) If God’s wrath is already revealed, why does evil still flourish throughout history without clear, direct intervention? 3. (Romans 1:21–22) How can these verses label nonbelievers as “foolish” when many brilliant minds throughout history have not believed in God? 4. (Romans 1:26–27) Do these verses conflict with other biblical teachings on love and acceptance, considering today’s broader understanding of human sexuality? 5. (Romans 1:32) Does pronouncing death and judgment on those who practice such sins contradict New Testament themes of forgiveness and grace? Bible Study Discussion Questions 1. How does Paul describe his calling and mission in verses 1-7? 2. What does it mean for the Romans that their faith is being reported all over the world? 3. Why do you think Paul is eager to preach the gospel in Rome? 4. How does Paul define the Gospel in verses 16-17? 5. How can one "live by faith" as mentioned in verse 17? 6. What does it mean that the righteousness of God is revealed from faith to faith? 7. What is the significance of the phrase "the righteous will live by faith"? 8. What does the wrath of God look like according to verses 18-32? 9. Why does Paul claim that people are "without excuse" in their knowledge of God? 10. How does the issue of idolatry presented in this chapter relate to today's society? 11. How does Paul link the rejection of God's truth with moral decline? 12. How are the truths in Romans 1 relevant to your life today? 13. How does this chapter inform your understanding of God's view of sin? 14. How can you apply Paul's unashamed attitude towards the Gospel in your life? 15. How can you respond to people who "suppress the truth"? 16. What are the consequences of not honoring God as God according to this chapter? 17. How does Romans 1 shape your understanding of the Gospel's power? 18. How can you encourage other people in their faith, as Paul desired to encourage the Roman Christians? 19. How does this chapter influence your view of God's righteousness and wrath? 20. How can the teachings in Romans 1 guide your day-to-day choices and behavior? Bible Hub Chapter Summaries and Bible Study Questions