Title and Author: The book of Romans is traditionally attributed to the Apostle Paul, a key figure in the early Christian church. The title "Romans" reflects the intended recipients of the letter—the Christian community in Rome. Paul, a former Pharisee and a Roman citizen, wrote this epistle to articulate the core doctrines of the Christian faith.

Historical Context: Romans was likely written around A.D. 57 during Paul's third missionary journey, while he was in Corinth. The Roman Empire was at its zenith, and the city of Rome was a melting pot of cultures and religions. The early church in Rome was composed of both Jewish and Gentile believers, which created a unique dynamic and set of challenges.

Audience: The primary audience of Romans was the Christian community in Rome, which included both Jewish and Gentile converts. Paul had not yet visited Rome, but he was aware of the church's reputation and sought to address theological issues and promote unity among its diverse members.

Purpose: Paul wrote Romans to present a comprehensive theological framework of the gospel. He aimed to clarify the righteousness that comes from God, address tensions between Jewish and Gentile believers, and prepare the Roman church for his upcoming visit. Additionally, Paul sought support for his mission to Spain.

Genre and Style: Romans is an epistle, characterized by its logical and systematic presentation of theological arguments. Paul employs rhetorical questions, diatribes, and Old Testament quotations to support his points.1. Paul (Romans 1:1)
- The author of the letter, Paul is an apostle of Jesus Christ, called to spread the Gospel. He introduces himself as a servant of Christ Jesus, called to be an apostle and set apart for the gospel of God.

2. Jesus Christ (Romans 1:1)
- Central to the Christian faith, Jesus is the Son of God, whose life, death, and resurrection are the foundation of the Gospel that Paul preaches.

3. David (Romans 1:3)
- The second king of Israel, David is mentioned in reference to Jesus being a descendant of David according to the flesh, highlighting Jesus' royal lineage.

4. Abraham (Romans 4:1)
- The patriarch of the Israelites, Abraham is used by Paul as an example of righteousness through faith, emphasizing that he was justified by faith before the law was given.

5. Sarah (Romans 4:19)
- The wife of Abraham, Sarah is mentioned in the context of her old age and barrenness, which were overcome by faith, leading to the birth of Isaac.

6. Adam (Romans 5:14)
- The first man created by God, Adam is referenced in contrast to Christ, illustrating the concept of original sin and the redemptive act of Jesus.

7. Isaac (Romans 9:7)
- The son of Abraham and Sarah, Isaac is mentioned in the context of God's promise and the lineage of the Israelites.

8. Rebekah (Romans 9:10)
- The wife of Isaac, Rebekah is mentioned in the context of God's sovereign choice, as her children Jacob and Esau were chosen before they were born.

9. Jacob (Romans 9:13)
- The son of Isaac and Rebekah, Jacob is mentioned in the context of God's election, as it is written, "Jacob I loved, but Esau I hated."

10. Esau (Romans 9:13)
- The brother of Jacob, Esau is mentioned in the context of God's sovereign choice and the distinction between the two brothers.

11. Pharaoh (Romans 9:17)
- The ruler of Egypt during the time of Moses, Pharaoh is mentioned as an example of God's power and purpose, as God raised him up to demonstrate His power.

12. Elijah (Romans 11:2)
- A prophet of Israel, Elijah is mentioned in the context of God's faithfulness to His people, as Elijah appealed to God against Israel.

13. Isaiah (Romans 9:27)
- A major prophet in the Old Testament, Isaiah is quoted by Paul to support his arguments about the remnant of Israel and God's salvation plan.

14. Gaius (Romans 16:23)
- A host to Paul and the whole church, Gaius is mentioned in the closing greetings of the letter, indicating his hospitality and support for Paul's ministry.

15. Erastus (Romans 16:23)
- The city treasurer, Erastus is mentioned in the closing greetings, highlighting his role and support within the Christian community.

16. Timothy (Romans 16:21)
- A close companion and fellow worker of Paul, Timothy is mentioned in the closing greetings, indicating his presence and support during the writing of the letter.1. Rome (Romans 1:7)
- Rome is the capital city of the Roman Empire and the primary audience of Paul's letter. Paul writes to the believers in Rome, expressing his desire to visit them and share spiritual gifts to strengthen their faith.

2. Spain (Romans 15:24)
- Spain is mentioned as a destination Paul hopes to visit after his journey to Rome. He expresses his intention to preach the gospel there, indicating the western extent of his missionary ambitions.

3. Jerusalem (Romans 15:25)
- Jerusalem is referenced as the city where Paul is heading to deliver aid to the saints. This reflects his commitment to supporting the Jewish believers and maintaining unity between Jewish and Gentile Christians.

4. Macedonia and Achaia (Romans 15:26)
- These regions are mentioned in the context of the churches there contributing to the collection for the poor among the saints in Jerusalem. Macedonia and Achaia were significant areas of early Christian activity and support for Paul's ministry.1. Introduction and Greeting (Romans 1:1-7)
Paul introduces himself as a servant of Christ Jesus, called to be an apostle, and sets the stage for his message to the believers in Rome. He emphasizes the gospel's promise through the prophets and Jesus Christ's resurrection.

2. Paul's Desire to Visit Rome (Romans 1:8-15)
Paul expresses his gratitude for the Roman believers' faith and his longing to visit them to impart spiritual gifts and strengthen their faith.

3. The Power of the Gospel (Romans 1:16-17)
Paul declares that he is not ashamed of the gospel, which is the power of God for salvation to everyone who believes, revealing the righteousness of God.

4. God's Wrath Against Sin (Romans 1:18-32)
Paul discusses humanity's unrighteousness and God's wrath against sin, highlighting how people have turned away from God to idolatry and immorality.

5. God's Righteous Judgment (Romans 2:1-16)
Paul warns against judging others, emphasizing that God's judgment is based on truth and that both Jews and Gentiles are accountable to God.

6. The Law and Circumcision (Romans 2:17-29)
Paul addresses the Jews, explaining that true circumcision is a matter of the heart, by the Spirit, not merely external adherence to the law.

7. All Have Sinned (Romans 3:9-20)
Paul concludes that both Jews and Gentiles are under sin, quoting various scriptures to show that no one is righteous on their own.

8. Righteousness Through Faith (Romans 3:21-31)
Paul introduces the concept of righteousness through faith in Jesus Christ, apart from the law, available to all who believe.

9. Abraham Justified by Faith (Romans 4:1-25)
Paul uses Abraham as an example of justification by faith, not by works, emphasizing that faith was credited to him as righteousness.

10. Peace and Hope Through Christ (Romans 5:1-11)
Paul explains the benefits of being justified by faith, including peace with God, access to grace, and hope in God's glory.

11. Death Through Adam, Life Through Christ (Romans 5:12-21)
Paul contrasts Adam's sin, which brought death, with Christ's obedience, which brings life and grace to many.

12. Freedom from Sin (Romans 6:1-23)
Paul discusses the believer's new life in Christ, emphasizing freedom from sin and the call to live as instruments of righteousness.

13. Released from the Law (Romans 7:1-6)
Paul explains that believers have died to the law through Christ and are now free to serve in the new way of the Spirit.

14. The Struggle with Sin (Romans 7:7-25)
Paul describes the internal conflict between the desire to do good and the sinful nature, highlighting the need for deliverance through Christ.

15. Life Through the Spirit (Romans 8:1-17)
Paul outlines the life-giving power of the Holy Spirit, who enables believers to live according to God's will and assures them of their status as God's children.

16. Future Glory (Romans 8:18-30)
Paul speaks of the future glory that awaits believers, the hope of creation's redemption, and God's purpose in conforming believers to the image of His Son.

17. God's Love in Christ (Romans 8:31-39)
Paul assures believers of God's unwavering love, declaring that nothing can separate them from the love of God in Christ Jesus.

18. Paul's Sorrow for Israel (Romans 9:1-5)
Paul expresses deep sorrow for Israel's unbelief and his desire for their salvation, acknowledging their privileges and heritage.

19. God's Sovereign Choice (Romans 9:6-29)
Paul discusses God's sovereignty in election, using examples from Israel's history to illustrate God's purpose and mercy.

20. Righteousness by Faith (Romans 9:30-10:21)
Paul contrasts the righteousness based on the law with the righteousness that comes by faith, emphasizing the need for faith in Christ for salvation.

21. The Remnant of Israel (Romans 11:1-10)
Paul explains that God has not rejected His people, Israel, entirely, but has preserved a remnant chosen by grace.

22. Grafted Branches (Romans 11:11-24)
Paul uses the metaphor of an olive tree to describe how Gentiles have been grafted into the blessings of Israel, warning against arrogance.

23. All Israel Will Be Saved (Romans 11:25-36)
Paul reveals the mystery of Israel's partial hardening until the fullness of the Gentiles comes in, leading to the eventual salvation of all Israel.

24. Living Sacrifices (Romans 12:1-2)
Paul urges believers to offer their bodies as living sacrifices, holy and pleasing to God, and to be transformed by renewing their minds.

25. Humble Service in the Body of Christ (Romans 12:3-8)
Paul encourages believers to use their diverse gifts for the benefit of the church, emphasizing humility and unity.

26. Love in Action (Romans 12:9-21)
Paul provides practical instructions for living out love, including sincerity, hospitality, and overcoming evil with good.

27. Submission to Authorities (Romans 13:1-7)
Paul instructs believers to submit to governing authorities, recognizing them as God's servants for maintaining order.

28. Love Fulfills the Law (Romans 13:8-10)
Paul emphasizes that love is the fulfillment of the law, urging believers to love their neighbors as themselves.

29. The Day is Near (Romans 13:11-14)
Paul calls believers to live in readiness for Christ's return, casting off deeds of darkness and putting on the armor of light.

30. The Weak and the Strong (Romans 14:1-15:13)
Paul addresses issues of conscience and liberty, urging believers to accept one another and avoid causing others to stumble.

31. Paul's Plans and Greetings (Romans 15:14-16:27)
Paul outlines his travel plans, expresses his desire to visit Rome, and sends personal greetings to various individuals in the Roman church.1. The Righteousness of God (Romans 1:17)
- This theme emphasizes that God's righteousness is revealed through faith. It is a central concept in Paul's message, highlighting that righteousness is not achieved by human effort but is a gift from God through faith in Jesus Christ. "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.'"

2. Human Sinfulness (Romans 1:18-3:20)
- Paul discusses the universal nature of sin, asserting that all have sinned and fall short of the glory of God. This theme underscores the need for salvation and the inability of the law to justify humanity. "For all have sinned and fall short of the glory of God" (Romans 3:23).

3. Justification by Faith (Romans 3:21-5:21)
- Justification is presented as being made right with God through faith in Jesus Christ, not by works. This theme is crucial to understanding salvation as a gift of grace. "But now, apart from the law, the righteousness of God has been revealed, as attested by the Law and the Prophets" (Romans 3:21).

4. Grace and Redemption (Romans 3:24)
- Paul explains that believers are justified freely by God's grace through the redemption that came by Christ Jesus. This theme highlights the unmerited favor of God. "And are justified freely by His grace through the redemption that is in Christ Jesus."

5. Life in the Spirit (Romans 8:1-17)
- This theme contrasts life in the flesh with life in the Spirit, emphasizing the transformative power of the Holy Spirit in believers' lives. "Therefore, there is now no condemnation for those who are in Christ Jesus" (Romans 8:1).

6. God’s Sovereignty and Election (Romans 9:1-29)
- Paul discusses God's sovereign choice in election, illustrating that God's purposes are fulfilled according to His will and mercy. "For He says to Moses: 'I will have mercy on whom I have mercy, and I will have compassion on whom I have compassion'" (Romans 9:15).

7. The Role of Israel (Romans 9:30-11:36)
- Paul addresses the place of Israel in God's plan, affirming that God's promises to Israel remain and that there is a future for Israel in God's redemptive plan. "I ask then: Did God reject His people? Certainly not!" (Romans 11:1).

8. Christian Ethics and Living (Romans 12:1-15:13)
- This theme covers practical instructions for Christian living, including love, humility, and service. Paul urges believers to live in a way that reflects their faith. "Therefore I urge you, brothers, on account of God’s mercy, to offer your bodies as living sacrifices, holy and pleasing to God, which is your spiritual service of worship" (Romans 12:1).

9. Unity in the Church (Romans 14:1-15:13)
- Paul emphasizes the importance of unity among believers, urging them to accept one another despite differences in opinions and practices. "Accept him whose faith is weak, without passing judgment on his opinions" (Romans 14:1).

10. The Fulfillment of the Law through Love (Romans 13:8-10)
- Love is presented as the fulfillment of the law, with Paul teaching that love for others is the essence of the commandments. "Let no debt remain outstanding, except the continuing debt to love one another, for whoever loves others has fulfilled the law" (Romans 13:8).1. Son of God (Romans 1:4)
- Jesus is declared the Son of God with power by His resurrection from the dead, emphasizing His divine nature and authority.

2. Christ Jesus (Romans 3:24)
- The term "Christ" means "Anointed One," signifying Jesus as the Messiah who brings redemption. "Jesus" is His human name, highlighting His role in salvation.

3. Lord (Romans 10:9)
- Confessing Jesus as Lord acknowledges His supreme authority and divinity, a central tenet of Christian faith.

4. Savior (Romans 5:9-10)
- While not explicitly titled "Savior" in these verses, Jesus is described as the one through whom believers are saved from God's wrath and reconciled to God.

5. The Last Adam (Romans 5:14-15)
- Jesus is compared to Adam, the first man, but as the "Last Adam," He brings life and grace, contrasting Adam's act that led to sin and death.

6. Mediator (Romans 8:34)
- Jesus is depicted as the one who intercedes for believers at the right hand of God, acting as a mediator between God and humanity.

7. The Deliverer (Romans 11:26)
- Quoting Isaiah, Paul refers to Jesus as the Deliverer who will come from Zion to turn away ungodliness from Jacob, highlighting His role in salvation history.

8. The Root of Jesse (Romans 15:12)
- This title, quoting Isaiah, refers to Jesus' lineage from Jesse, the father of King David, emphasizing His fulfillment of Old Testament prophecy and His rightful claim to the throne of Israel.

Each of these titles and descriptions in Romans provides a multifaceted view of Jesus' identity and mission, underscoring His divine nature, redemptive work, and fulfillment of prophecy.1. Prophecy of the Gospel Promised Through the Prophets
- Prophecy: Paul begins by affirming that the gospel was promised beforehand through God's prophets in the Holy Scriptures.
- Fulfillment: This is fulfilled in the coming of Jesus Christ, as Paul explains throughout the letter.
- Reference: Romans 1:2 - "which He promised beforehand through His prophets in the Holy Scriptures."

2. Prophecy of the Righteous Shall Live by Faith
- Prophecy: Paul quotes Habakkuk 2:4, emphasizing that righteousness comes by faith.
- Fulfillment: This is fulfilled in the justification of believers through faith in Jesus Christ.
- Reference: Romans 1:17 - "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.'"

3. Prophecy of A Stumbling Stone in Zion
- Prophecy: Paul references Isaiah 8:14 and 28:16 about a stone that causes people to stumble.
- Fulfillment: This is fulfilled in Jesus Christ, who becomes a stumbling block to those who do not believe.
- Reference: Romans 9:33 - "as it is written: 'See, I lay in Zion a stone of stumbling and a rock of offense, and the one who believes in Him will never be put to shame.'"

4. Prophecy of the Remnant of Israel
- Prophecy: Paul cites Isaiah 10:22-23 regarding a remnant of Israel being saved.
- Fulfillment: This is fulfilled in the salvation of a remnant of Israel through faith in Christ.
- Reference: Romans 9:27 - "Isaiah cries out concerning Israel: 'Though the number of the Israelites is like the sand of the sea, only the remnant will be saved.'"

5. Prophecy of Gentiles Included in Salvation
- Prophecy: Paul refers to Hosea 2:23 and 1:10 about those who were not God's people becoming His people.
- Fulfillment: This is fulfilled in the inclusion of the Gentiles in the salvation plan through Christ.
- Reference: Romans 9:25-26 - "As He says in Hosea: 'I will call them ‘My people’ who are not My people, and I will call her ‘My beloved’ who is not My beloved,' and, 'It will happen that in the very place where it was said to them, ‘You are not My people,’ they will be called ‘sons of the living God.’'"

6. Prophecy of the Deliverer from Zion
- Prophecy: Paul quotes Isaiah 59:20-21 and 27:9 about a deliverer coming from Zion.
- Fulfillment: This is fulfilled in Jesus Christ, who brings salvation and turns away ungodliness from Jacob.
- Reference: Romans 11:26-27 - "And so all Israel will be saved, as it is written: 'The Deliverer will come from Zion, He will remove godlessness from Jacob. And this is My covenant with them when I take away their sins.'"

1. Condemnation: The Need for a Savior  ( 1:1⁠–⁠3:20 )

a. Paul Greets the Saints in Rome  ( 1:1⁠–⁠7 )

b. Unashamed of the Gospel  ( 1:8⁠–⁠17 )

c. God’s Wrath against Sin  ( 1:18⁠–⁠3:20 )

i. Unrighteous Nations  ( 1:18⁠–⁠32 )

ii. Unrighteous Israel  ( 2:1⁠–⁠3:8 )

1. God’s Righteous Judgment  ( 2:1⁠–⁠16 )

2. The Jews and the Law  ( 2:17⁠–⁠29 )

3. God Remains Faithful  ( 3:1⁠–⁠8 )

iii. There is No One Righteous  ( 3:9⁠–⁠20 )

2. Justification: Faith in the Savior  ( 3:21⁠–⁠5:21 )

a. Righteousness through Faith in Christ  ( 3:21⁠–⁠31 )

b. The Faith of Abraham  ( 4:1⁠–⁠25 )

i. Justification by Faith  ( 4:1⁠–⁠12 )

ii. Abraham Receives the Promise  ( 4:13⁠–⁠25 )

c. From Death to Life  ( 5:1⁠–⁠21 )

i. The Triumph of Faith  ( 5:1⁠–⁠5 )

ii. Christ’s Sacrifice for the Ungodly  ( 5:6⁠–⁠11 )

iii. Death in Adam, Life in Christ  ( 5:12⁠–⁠21 )

3. Sanctification: How Ought We to Live  ( 6:1⁠–⁠8:39 )

a. Dead to Sin, Alive to God  ( 6:1⁠–⁠14 )

b. The Wages of Sin  ( 6:15⁠–⁠23 )

c. Function of the Law  ( 7:1⁠–⁠25 )

d. Walking by the Spirit  ( 8:1⁠–⁠39 )

i. Flesh vs. Spirit  ( 8:1⁠–⁠11 )

ii. Heirs with Christ  ( 8:12⁠–⁠17 )

iii. Future Glory  ( 8:18⁠–⁠27 )

iv. God Works in All Things  ( 8:28⁠–⁠34 )

v. More than Conquerors  ( 8:35⁠–⁠39 )

4. Restoration: The Plan and Future for Israel  ( 9:1⁠–⁠11:36 )

a. Israel In the Past  ( 9:1⁠–⁠33 )

i. Paul’s Concern for the Jews  ( 9:1⁠–⁠5 )

ii. God’s Sovereign Choice  ( 9:6⁠–⁠29 )

iii. Israel’s Unbelief  ( 9:30⁠–⁠33 )

b. Israel in the Present  ( 10:1⁠–⁠21 )

c. Israel in the Future  ( 11:1⁠–⁠36 )

i. A Remnant Chosen by Grace  ( 11:1⁠–⁠10 )

ii. The Ingrafting of the Gentiles  ( 11:11⁠–⁠24 )

iii. All Israel Will Be Saved  ( 11:25⁠–⁠32 )

iv. A Hymn of Praise  ( 11:33⁠–⁠36 )

5. Unification: The Body of Believers  ( 12:1⁠–⁠15:13 )

a. Love and Forgiveness  ( 12:1⁠–⁠13:14 )

i. Living Sacrifices  ( 12:1⁠–⁠8 )

ii. Love, Zeal, Hope, Hospitality  ( 12:9⁠–⁠13 )

iii. Forgiveness  ( 12:14⁠–⁠21 )

iv. Submission to Authorities  ( 13:1⁠–⁠7 )

v. Love Fulfills the Law  ( 13:8⁠–⁠10 )

vi. The Day is Near  ( 13:11⁠–⁠14 )

b. Grace in Jew and Gentile Relationship  ( 14:1⁠–⁠15:13 )

i. The Law of Liberty  ( 14:1⁠–⁠12 )

ii. The Law of Love  ( 14:13⁠–⁠23 )

iii. Accept One Another  ( 15:1⁠–⁠6 )

iv. Christ the Servant of Jews and Gentiles  ( 15:7⁠–⁠13 )

6. Paul’s Salutation  ( 5:14⁠–⁠16:27 )

a. Paul the Minister to the Gentiles  ( 15:14⁠–⁠22 )

b. Paul’s Travel Plans  ( 15:23⁠–⁠33 )

c. Personal Greetings and Love  ( 16:1⁠–⁠16 )

d. Avoid Divisions  ( 16:17⁠–⁠20 )

e. Greetings from Paul’s Fellow Workers  ( 16:21⁠–⁠23 )

f. Doxology  ( 16:25⁠–⁠27 )