Introduction to the Book

When beginning a study of any biblical book, we first consider the author and the historical context. The Apostle Paul, widely recognized as the author of Romans, explicitly claims authorship in the opening verse. The letter’s style and focus align with Paul’s other writings, leaving little reason to doubt his authorship. While some debate exists, even among liberal scholars, the consensus supports Paul as the author.

Paul likely wrote Romans around AD 57, near the end of his third missionary journey. To place this in context, Paul’s conversion on the road to Damascus occurred around AD 33–34, two years after Jesus’ resurrection. Following his conversion, Paul spent 14 years in relative obscurity, learning and ministering in Syria and Cilicia (Galatians 1:18; 2:1). His three missionary journeys, spanning AD 48–57, are recorded in Acts, highlighting his work in Galatia, Corinth, and Ephesus. At the conclusion of his third journey, Paul was preparing to return to Jerusalem despite prophetic warnings of arrest and suffering (Acts 20:22–23).

This letter was penned in Corinth, written with an awareness that Paul’s freedom was drawing to a close. Knowing he would face imprisonment, Paul chose to deliver his gospel message to the Romans in writing, a detailed explanation of the faith that he usually proclaimed verbally in synagogues and public forums.

Why Study Romans?

Understanding the context of Paul’s letter enhances our interpretation of its message. Romans is not merely a theological treatise but a relational appeal rooted in God’s purpose: to establish an everlasting love relationship with his image bearers. This framework is foundational to Kinship Theology, which views all Scripture through the lens of God’s self-giving love. (For more detail about Kinship Theology, see the Kinship Theology OneSheet in the Resources section of our website.)

Paul’s understanding of salvation, presented in Romans, reflects this relational purpose. The gospel is not a formula for escaping punishment or gaining rewards; it is the proclamation of God’s faithfulness to redeem creation through Jesus Christ. This redemption restores humanity’s relationship with God, fulfilling his covenant purpose to provide truth, goodness, and beauty (TGB) to his image bearers.

Paul’s Decision to Go to Jerusalem

Some commentators argue that Paul erred in returning to Jerusalem, claiming he ignored the Spirit’s warnings of danger. However, the biblical account does not support this view. Paul consistently demonstrated sensitivity to the Spirit’s leading, adjusting his plans when directed (Acts 16:6–10). Even in Acts 21, when warned of arrest, Paul acknowledged the risk but declared his willingness to suffer for the Lord (Acts 21:13). His decision reflects submission to God’s will, not stubborn self-will. This alignment with God’s purpose exemplifies the love relationship at the heart of Kinship Theology.

The Gospel’s Core Message

Paul’s gospel centers on Jesus as Lord, the fulfillment of God’s redemptive plan. This message counters the world’s attempts to satisfy the soul’s craving for TGB apart from God. In declaring Jesus as Lord, Paul proclaims the restoration of creation through Christ’s atonement—a redemption that reclaims humanity’s intended relationship with God.

Romans emphasizes salvation as relational restoration, not merely a transactional escape from sin. Paul writes to Christians, not to convert unbelievers, aiming to deepen their understanding of the gospel’s implications for their lives. By highlighting the righteousness of God—his faithfulness to his covenant promises—Paul invites his readers to see salvation as an ongoing journey of faith, hope, and love, culminating in eternal relationship with God.

Conclusion

Paul’s letter to the Romans is a masterpiece of theological depth and relational insight. Written with the urgency of impending imprisonment, it serves as both a doctrinal guide and an invitation to embrace the fullness of God’s redemptive purpose. As we journey through Romans, we are reminded that the gospel is the power of God for salvation—a transformative work that restores us to our original design as image bearers, living in covenant love with our Creator.