Author: Paul
Audience: The Christians of Rome

Central Messages in the Book of Romans

• The Sinfulness of Humans
• Forgiveness Found through Jesus Christ
• Freedom from Sin, Destruction
• Take Personal Responsibility

The History of the Book of Romans

Written about A.D. 57, from Corinth, Paul's letter to the Romans which would later become the Book of Romans was written as the apostle prepared to visit Jerusalem.

Completing his work of bringing an offering to poor Christians in the east (Romans 15:23-28), Paul planned to visit Roman Christians as he ventured to Spain. At this time in history, the Roman church consisted mainly of Jewish congregants who came to faith during Pentecost (Acts 2) but also contained a multitude of Gentiles.

Paul writes how he felt a close connection with the Roman Christians, despite never meeting them. In his letter, Paul organized contents to carefully illustrate how a Roman steeped in the faith of Jesus Christ could find forgiveness and freedom from sin, in addition to guiding them on how to live in the Spirit.

From his presentation of the Gospel (Romans 1:3) and how humanity is lost to sin (Romans 1:18-3:20), to the free gift of salvation (Romans 3:25-5:21) and how to live (Romans 12:1), the entire letter is as relevant today as it was then for the Romans.

As you study the Book of Romans, compare your life along with the lives described in Paul's letter; prayerfully examine how your commitment to Christ compares to that Paul encourages and strive to fulfill these important guidelines in your own life.