The Gospel of God

Paul, a servant of Jesus Christ, called to be an apostle, separated unto the gospel of God, (Which he had promised afore by his prophets in the holy scriptures,)Concerning his Son Jesus Christ our Lord, which was made of the seed of David according to the flesh; And declared to be the Son of God with power, according to the spirit of holiness, by the resurrection from the dead: By whom we have received grace and apostleship, for obedience to the faith among all nations, for his name: Among whom are ye also the called of Jesus Christ: To all that be in Rome, beloved of God, called to be saints: Grace to you and peace from God our Father, and the Lord Jesus Christ. (Romans 1:1-7)

Paul wrote the letter to the Romans from Corinth. He had yet to visit Rome in person, but everyone knew about that city. In Paul’s day, Rome was comparable in size to current day Chicago or Philadelphia. Filled with politicians, merchants, and entertainers, ancient Rome was and still is known for its debauchery. The worship of false gods, which often included sacrifices at altars of sex goddesses, was a cornerstone of life in ancient Rome. Still, amid the corruption and lasciviousness of Rome, a Christian community bloomed. To them, Paul wrote one of his most unique epistles. His others focus more on local church issues or on our position as New Testament believers in Christ, but the letter to the Romans focuses on God. God is used 153 times in this letter. Romans covers many vital doctrinal truths, including sin, grace, righteousness, law, flesh, and spirit, but the primary focus is on God. In his salutation, Paul called himself an apostle, separated unto the gospel of God. The doctrinal truths in the book of Romans have challenged and changed many people, including the great Protestant reformer, Martin Luther. His revelation of Romans 1:17 changed church history. It reads, “For therein is the righteousness of God revealed from faith to faith: as it is written, The just shall live by faith.”

Practical Application

You may live in a city or nation known for its sinful ways, but people are still hungry to hear the truth of the Gospel. Be bold and tell them!

Acts 18:2; Romans 1:15