6:1 Brothers, if someone is caught [suggests an element of unexpectedness in moral failure which would be both embarrassing and overwhelming] in a sin, you who are [not who “think” they are; those whose lives are characterized by fruit of the Spirit (Gal. 5:22-23)] spiritual [reference to those who are led by the Spirit] should restore [word used in Matt. 4:21 to refer to mending fishing nets and in secular Greek for mending broken bones] him gently. But watch yourself [be aware of your own vulnerability], or you also may be tempted [be aware that you too can be overtaken by sin (1 Cor. 10:12)].

Note: One person said, “Before I was a Christian I ran after sin, but now I run from it though it sometimes still overtakes me.”

6:2 Carry [even when trouble is of the other person’s own making] each other’s burdens [crushing weight or load that one cannot carry alone; in this case includes burden of moral failure], and in this way you will fulfill the law of Christ [the commandment to love that Jesus took from the OT (Lev. 19:18; Matt. 22:36-40) and urged upon His followers (Jn. 13:34-35)].

6:3 If anyone thinks he is something [conceit; leads to intolerance of others who fail and to the belief that one is above failure] when he is nothing, he deceives himself.

6:4 Each one should test [examine; have an accurate view of oneself; we should test our lives against God’s Word rather than against others] his own actions [do not compare your accomplishments with those of others]. Then he can take pride in himself, without comparing himself to somebody else,

6:5 for each one should carry his own load [word frequently used to refer to the pack of a soldier; describes a responsibility which could not be shared with another; some loads are so burdensome that one needs help to carry them (as in v. 2) while others are individual responsibilities one must carry alone (as in v. 5)].

6:6 Anyone who receives instruction in the word must share [from the beginning of the church, sharing was one of the marks of the Christian experience (cf. Acts 2:41-47)] all good things [included financial contributions] with [provide for the support of; cf. 1 Cor. 9:4 and 1 Tim. 5:17] his instructor.

6:7 Do not be deceived: God cannot be mocked [to turn up nose at God; rooted in a contemptuous, scoffing attitude]. A man reaps [in proportion to; cf. Hos. 8:7] what he sows [the law of the harvest is one law we cannot break].

Note: In his book “Loving God,” Charles Colson illustrates the truth of a “delayed harvest.”
• The great colonial pastor Cotton Mather prayed for revival several hours each day for twenty years. The Great Awakening began the year he died.
• The British Empire finally abolished slavery as the Christian parliamentarian and abolitionist leader William Wilberforce lay on his deathbed, exhausted from his nearly fifty-year campaign against the practice of human bondage.
• Few were the converts during Hudson Taylor’s lifelong work in the Orient; but today millions of Chinese embrace the faith he so patiently planted and tended.

6:8 The one who sows [plants seeds] to please his sinful [fleshly] nature, from that nature will reap [harvest] destruction; the one who sows to please the Spirit, from the Spirit will reap [the blessings of obedience] eternal life.

6:9 Let us not become weary [the act of becoming loose like an unstrung bow; becoming weak with fatigue] in doing good, for at the proper time we will reap a harvest if we do not give up.

6:10 Therefore, as we have opportunity, let us do good [outward deeds of kindness which are either spiritual or material] to all [not just believers but everyone in our sphere of influence] people, especially to those who belong to the family [Paul designated Christians as a single spiritual family; we build family relationship by doing good to one another and by showing appropriate concern, involvement and support for stumbling believers] of believers.

6:11 See what large [probably to communicate urgency of his message: don’t miss this!] letters I [Paul instead of his secretary (Gr. amanuensis)] use as I write to you with my own hand!

6:12 [notice three evil motives of the Judaizers] Those who [1] want to make a good impression outwardly [trying to be popular; worked for their own glory rather than God’s] are trying to compel you to be circumcised. The only reason they do this [teach that both the cross and circumcision were necessary for salvation] is [2] to avoid being persecuted for the cross of Christ.

6:13 Not even those who are circumcised obey the law [Judaizers did not practice what they preached; they did not observe the law themselves], yet they want you to be circumcised [3] that they may boast [Judaizers wanted to boast in the number of converts they had won to their position; more interested in winning people to their position than to Christ] about your flesh.

6:14 May I never boast except in the cross [represents the hope of the world; Paul gloried in the cross because he knew the Person, power, and purpose of the cross] of our Lord Jesus Christ, through which the world [refers to anything in creation which operates apart from God, such as pride and religions of human effort] has been crucified to me, and I to the world.

6:15 Neither circumcision nor uncircumcision means anything [the cross made circumcision an empty ritual, merely an external mark on the body void of spiritual meaning]; what counts is a new creation.

6:16 Peace and mercy to all who follow this rule [see Gal. 6:15; lining up with the truth that salvation is only by faith in Christ], even to the Israel of God [all who depend on Christ for salvation].

6:17 Finally, let no one [the Judaizers; believers who were turning away from Paul’s teaching] cause me trouble, for I bear on my body the marks [Gr. “stigmata”; wounds Paul received for his public stance for Jesus; these marks confirmed Paul’s devotion to Jesus; cf. 2 Cor. 6:4-10; 11:23-30] of Jesus.

6:18 The grace of our Lord [emphasizes His glory] Jesus [emphasizes His role as Savior] Christ [Messiah; emphasizes His commission from God] be with your spirit, brothers. Amen [“let it be so”].

Romans 15:1-13

15:1 We [Paul considered himself one of the strong] who are strong [the spiritually mature] ought [to owe someone, to be a debtor (cf. Rom. 1:14); strong believers have an obligation to weak believers] to bear [cf. Gal. 6:2 re: use of this word] with [carry, assist, help] the failings [or scruples (as in NKJV); nonmoral issues about which the strong and the weak had differing opinions] of the weak [the spiritually immature] and not to please ourselves [not put own interests first].

15:2 Each of us should please [to be concerned for the spiritual welfare of others] his neighbor [in this context refers to others believers (whether strong or weak); cf. Phil. 2:3-4; be other-centered rather than self-centered; selfishness is a threat to Christian unity] for his good, to build him up.

15:3 For even Christ [the ultimate example of an other-centered lifestyle] did not [cf. Lk. 22:42] please himself but, as it is written [cf. Ps. 69:9 re: the unjust sufferings of a righteous man]: “The insults [reproach, reviling] of those who insult you have fallen on me.”

15:4 For everything that was written in the past [here refers to OT] was written to teach [cf. 2 Tim. 3:16; what was written in the past has ongoing value] us, so that through endurance [steadfastness; patience] and the encouragement [comfort; exhortation] of the Scriptures [Scriptures record biographies of saints and how they responded to life’s challenges and adversities and served others; the OT is great source of motivation and inspiration] we might have hope [cf. Ps. 119:81; no hope apart from Christ (cf. Eph. 2:12; 1 Thess. 4:13); Christian hope grounded in God of hope].

15:5 [a prayer or benediction] May the God who gives endurance and encouragement give you [Jews and Gentiles; weak and strong] a spirit of unity [cf. Jn. 17:22-23] among yourselves as you follow Christ Jesus,

15:6 so that with one [unified] heart [a harmonious attitude] and mouth [a symphony of praise] you may glorify [praise, worship, acknowledge; chief goal of Christian living to glorify God] the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ.

15:7 Accept [receive, welcome; do not get entangled in dissension, disagreements, arguments; do not show favoritism; avoid discrimination; accept people into heart and home] one another [“accept one another” summarizes Rom. 15:1-4], then, just as [in the same way] Christ [the Jewish Messiah] accepted [warmly welcomed; we should welcome those whom Christ has welcomed] you [“Christ accepted you” is this is the essence of Christianity], in order to [the world notices when believers (of all backgrounds) stand united] bring praise to God [summarizes Rom. 15:5-6].

15:8 For I tell you that Christ has become a servant of the Jews on behalf of God’s truth, to confirm [to establish; to make firm] the promises [cf. Gen. 12:1-3; 26:3-4; 28:13-15] made to the patriarchs

15:9 so that [purpose] the Gentiles may glorify God for his mercy, as it is written [cf. Ps. 18:49; 2 Sam. 22:50; Paul reminded the Jews from their own Scriptures (the Law, the Prophets, and the Writings) that their God extended His unlimited love to the Gentiles; God had always planned for Gentiles to be included in salvation]: “Therefore I will praise you among the Gentiles; I will sing hymns to your name.”

15:10 Again, it says [cf. Deut. 32:43], “Rejoice, O Gentiles, with his people [Jews].”

15:11 And again [cf. Ps. 117:1], “Praise the Lord, all you Gentiles, and [note that second line repeats the thought of the first line] sing praises to him, all you peoples.”

15:12 And again, Isaiah [Isa. 11:10] says, “The Root of Jesse [this messianic title found only here in NT (cf. Rev. 5:5)] will spring up, one who will arise to rule over the nations; the Gentiles [included in the messianic kingdom] will hope in him.”

15:13 [benediction] May the God of hope [God is the source of hope] fill you with all joy and peace as you trust in him, so that you may overflow [to abound] with hope by the power of the Holy Spirit.

14:1 Accept him whose faith is weak, without passing judgment on disputable matters.

14:2 One man’s faith allows him to eat everything, but another man, whose faith is weak, eats only vegetables.

14:3 The man who eats everything must not look down on him who does not, and the man who does not eat everything must not condemn the man who does, for God has accepted him.

14:4 Who are you to judge someone else’s servant? To his own master he stands or falls. And he will stand, for the Lord is able to make him stand.

14:5 One man considers one day more sacred than another; another man considers every day alike. Each one should be fully convinced in his own mind.

14:6 He who regards one day as special, does so to the Lord. He who eats meat, eats to the Lord, for he gives thanks to God; and he who abstains, does so to the Lord and gives thanks to God.

14:7 For none of us lives to himself alone and none of us dies to himself alone.

14:8 If we live, we live to the Lord; and if we die, we die to the Lord. So, whether we live or die, we belong to the Lord.

14:9 For this very reason, Christ died and returned to life so that he might be the Lord of both the dead and the living.

14:10 You, then, why do you judge your brother [for doing or not doing things that are morally neutral]? Or why do you look down on your brother [cf. Phil. 2:3-4 re: a better attitude]? For we will all stand before God’s judgment seat [Gr. “bema” as in Jn. 19:13; Acts 18:12; 2 Cor. 5:10].

14:11 It is written: “‘As surely as I live,’ says the Lord, [one result of God’s judgment…] ‘every knee will bow [in submission] before me; every tongue will confess [give praise to] to God.'”

14:12 So then, each of us will give an account of himself to God [cf. Heb. 9:27].

14:13 Therefore let us stop passing judgment on one another. Instead, make up your mind not to put any stumbling block or obstacle in your brother’s way.

14:14 As one who is in the Lord Jesus, I am fully convinced that no food is unclean in itself. But if anyone regards something as unclean, then for him it is unclean.

14:15 If your brother is distressed because of what you eat, you are no longer acting in love. Do not by your eating destroy your brother for whom Christ died.

14:16 Do not allow what you consider good to be spoken of as evil.

14:17 For the kingdom of God is not a matter of eating and drinking, but of righteousness, peace and joy in the Holy Spirit,

14:18 because anyone who serves Christ in this way is pleasing to God and approved by men.

14:19 Let us therefore make every effort to do what leads to peace [in this context refers to nonjudgmental attitudes and to practices that do not cause others to stumble] and to mutual edification [we must consider how our actions might affect others].

14:20 Do not destroy the work of God [the work He is doing in other believers and in the church] for the sake of food. All food is clean, but it is wrong for a man to eat anything that causes someone else to stumble.

14:21 [Paul followed his own advice (cf. 1 Cor. 8:13); Paul restricted his freedoms for the sake of others] It is better not [abstinence rather than moderation] to eat meat or drink wine or to do anything else that will cause your brother to fall.

14:22 So whatever you believe about these things keep between yourself and God. Blessed is the man who does not condemn himself by what he approves.

14:23 But the man who has doubts is condemned if he eats, because his eating is not from faith; and everything that does not come from faith is sin.

The Answers to Jewish Objections: Romans 3:1-8

Based upon Paul’s case in Romans 2:17-29, it appears that the Jew has been reduced to a position of equality with the heathen (Romans 1:18-32) and the hypocrite (Romans 2:1-16). So, if a Jew stands under the condemnation of God, even as the heathen and hypocrite, in spite of his possession of the Law and his practice of circumcision, what is the advantage of being a Jew? Paul answered this objection by reminding the Jew that his greatest advantage was the possession of the Word of God. This great treasure was entrusted to him to share with the world. This great treasure revealed to him the will of God. This great treasure told him of the coming Messiah. But the Jew failed to share God’s Word and to obey God’s will, thus he stood accountable to God.

Thus we have Paul’s case against the Jew and all men who count on religion to make them right with God. Religion cannot make a man right with God nor will it exempt a man from God’s judgment. Religious people stand in need of the righteousness of God just as much as the worst sinner. The only hope for religious and irreligious men alike is a personal relationship with Jesus Christ. The Good News is not just for bad guys!

Practical Consideration

Ordinances are not enough!
The Jews prided themselves in the rite of circumcision. It was the symbol that they were the people of God. The Jews however, relied upon this external rite apart from a personal, spiritual experience with God. Many people today rely upon baptism, confirmation, and church membership to assure themselves that they belong to God. But ordinances, rites, and rituals are not enough. They are worthless unless something has happened to a person’s heart. An ordinance, like baptism, is meaningful only insofar as it is the outward expression of an inward experience with the Lord Jesus Christ.

GOD’S PERSPECTIVE OF MAN

Romans 3:9-20

In our study of Romans 1:18-3:8 we have likened Paul to a skillful prosecuting attorney building a case against mankind. We have watched him masterfully present God’s case against the heathen (Romans 1:18-32), the hypocrite (Romans 2:1-16), and the Hebrew (Romans 2:17-3:8). Beginning with Romans 3:9, Paul presents the closing arguments of God’s case against mankind by addressing humanity in general. As we have noted in earlier lessons, the purpose of Paul’s arguments have been to show that all men are in a hopeless and helpless condition apart from God. We have noted that all men stand in need of the righteousness of God, regardless of whether they are depraved heathen, smug hypocrites, or self-righteous moralists. Paul’s closing arguments in Romans 3:9-20 indict all men. His arguments accentuate the hopeless condition of mankind. Paul however, has presented God’s case for a reason. His convicting arguments serve as the prelude to the proclamation of the glorious Good News of the salvation that is available to all men by grace through faith in the Lord Jesus Christ. His arguments confirm the fact that the ground is level at the foot of the cross. No man has an advantage and all men stand in equal need of the cleansing blood of Jesus Christ. In his closing argument, Paul addresses the matter of the condition of man, the character of man, and the culpability of man. These arguments present God’s perspective of man.

The Character of Man: Romans 3:9-12

Paul begins his closing argument by stating that all men are on the same footing with God. No man has a special status and no man is exempt from God’s judgment. The reason all men are on equal footing is because all men are “under sin” (see Romans 3:9). This means that all men are under the power and control of sin as well as under the wrath and judgment of God for sin. In order to support his point that all men are under sin, Paul quotes a series of verses from the Old Testament that illustrate the sinful character and conduct of man and show why man is culpable before God.

First, Paul begins by stating that all men are unrighteous: “As it is written, ‘There is none righteous, not even one'” (Romans 3:10). The word “righteous” means in right standing with God. Second, Paul declares that all men are unreasonable: “There is none who understands” (Romans 3:11a). Man is unreasonable in his understanding of God and in his attitude toward God. He does not understand how offensive his sin is to God nor what God has done to provide the salvation he ignores. If men understood these things they would not hesitate to be saved. Third, Paul states that all men are unresponsive: “There is none who seeks for God” (Romans 3:11b). Someone has said, “The Bible is not a record of man seeking God, but rather a record of God seeking man.” Jesus said, “For the Son of Man has come to seek and to save that which was lost” (Luke 19:10). Fourth, Paul declares that all men are unrepentant: “All have turned aside, together they have become useless; there is none who does good, there is not even one” (Romans 3:12). Men have abandoned the way of life prescribed by God and in the process have become useless or bad.

The Conduct of Man: Romans 3:13-18

Paul turns his attention from the character of man to the conduct of man in Romans 3:13-18. In these verses Paul describes both the wicked words and wicked ways of man. Still quoting from the Old Testament in Romans 3:13, Paul declares that men reveal the evil condition of their hearts through their speech. Their speech is foul and filled with lies. In addition to that, their words are filled with poison. Paul likens men to the asp whose bite is poisonous. How often men behave like snakes, striking out at one another and injecting poisonous words into one another. In addition, men’s mouths are filled with cursing (impiety toward God) and bitterness (animosity toward men).

Paul goes on to show that it is not only what men say that exposes them to God’s judgment, but what they do as well. While Romans 3:13-14 illustrate that man’s words are deceitful and venomous, verses 15-17 reveal that man’s ways are destructive and violent. In Romans 3:15 Paul states that “Their feet are swift to shed blood.” While we may not be guilty of actual physical murder, we should keep in mind that Jesus traced murder to an angry thought (see Matthew 5:21-22). Paul then moves from murder to misery in Romans 3:16-17. Men have a way of leaving a devastating trail of destruction and misery wherever they go. Paul finally reveals the reason for man’s depraved character and destructive conduct in Romans 3:18: “There is no fear of God before their eyes.” Men who have no reverence for God and who make it a practice to ignore God are not afraid of wrongdoing and have nothing to restrain them from evil conduct.

The Culpability of Man: Romans 3:19-20

Paul concludes his case against the heathen, the hypocrite, the Hebrew, and humanity by declaring their culpability. Paul concludes his case with three points about the Law which reveal why men need to receive the righteousness of God. First, the Law leaves men without excuse. Any man who measures himself against the Law will be silenced by the weight of evidence against him. Second, the Law holds all men accountable. Third, the Law reveals sin and the sinfulness of man. The law is like a thermometer. A thermometer can show man how ill he is but it cannot make him well. The law is like a straightedge. It can show man how crooked he is but it cannot straighten him out. Paul said that “by the works of the Law no flesh will be justified in His sight” (Romans 3:20). If man is to be made right with God it will have to happen through something other than the Law. That something is a Someone, namely the Lord Jesus Christ. That is Paul’s next theme in his letter to the Romans.

Practical Considerations

The ground is level at the foot of the cross.
Paul’s case against the heathen, the hypocrite, the Hebrew, and humanity indicates that all men are under sin. No man has an advantage before God or will be exempted from God’s judgment. All men stand in need of the righteousness of God. The ground is level at the foot of the cross. The religious man stands in need of the saving grace of God just as much as the wicked man. “There is none righteous, not even one” (Romans 3:10).

Man’s attitude toward sin indicates his attitude toward God.
Paul stated, “There is none who understands” (Romans 3:11a). A man’s attitude toward sin indicates what his attitude toward God is and how much he really understands about God. A man who exhibits a flippant attitude toward sin usually has a flippant attitude toward God and does not understand how loathsome sin is to God.

God has taken the initiative in salvation.
According to the Bible, God has taken the initiative in salvation. God has given man the Scriptures, which point to His Son. God has given His Son that man might be saved. The Bible truly is a record of God’s search for man rather than man’s search for God.

Man betrays his sinful condition through his words and ways.
Man’s wickedness and inhumanity to man is exhibited through his deceitful and venomous speech and his destructive and violent ways. Man’s behavior reveals the hopeless and helpless condition of man apart from God. Man’s behavior serves to inculpate him before God and demonstrate his need for the righteousness that only God can supply.

God’s case against man is indisputable.
God’s case against man is so strong and airtight that no man will be able to argue against it before Him. God’s strong case is designed to silence men and to show them their need for the righteousness that only God can provide in His Son. All men have indeed sinned and fallen short of God’s expectations. All men are indeed shown to be crooked when measured against God’s standard and ill when diagnosed by God’s thermometer. The only hope that men have is to look to God alone for salvation.

BUT NOW…THE GOOD NEWS!

Romans 3:21-31

Paul began his letter to the Romans by setting forth his credentials, expressing his concern for the saints in Rome, and declaring his unbounded confidence in the gospel of the Lord Jesus Christ (see Romans 1:1-17). Paul identified the theme of his letter in Romans 1:17 – “the righteousness of God.” It was Paul’s desire to tell all men that God is righteous, that man is unrighteous, and that the gospel shows how the righteousness of God can be bestowed on sinful man. In Romans 1:18-3:20, Paul set about to explain why all men need to hear and embrace the message of the gospel. Like a skillful prosecuting attorney, Paul built a damning and damaging case against the heathen (Romans 1:18-32), the hypocrite (Romans 2:1-16), the Hebrew (Romans 2:17-3:8), and all humanity (Romans 3:9-20). Romans 1:18-3:20 serves to illustrate the fact that all men are sinners and stand in desperate need of the righteousness of God. But Paul’s convicting arguments in these verses should also be seen as a prelude to the marvelous proclamation that God has an answer to man’s hopeless and helpless condition. And so, after the bad news, Paul introduces some very good news!

A Magnificent Manifestation: Romans 3:21-23

Paul introduces the good news of his letter by using a very common and ordinary conjunction, “But” (Romans 3:21). This is an important little word because it is like a hinge upon which a great door swings. It is the word which marks the transition from Paul’s discussion of God’s appraisal of man in Romans 1:18-3:20 to God’s answer to man’s sinful condition in Romans 3:21-31. In Romans 3:21 Paul writes, “But now God’s way of putting men right with Himself has been revealed” (Good News paraphrase). Notice four important things about this magnificent manifestation. First, God’s way of putting men right with Himself is “apart from the Law” (see verse 21). God’s way of putting men right with Himself is not dependent upon keeping the Law. Second, God’s way of putting men right with Himself has been “manifested” (see verse 21). God’s way of putting men right with Himself is not hidden away in secret but has been brought to light for all to see. It has been brought to light in the Person of the Lord Jesus Christ. Third, God’s way of putting men right with Himself is not new. Paul declares in verse 21 that it has its roots deep in the Old Testament, “being witnessed by the Law and the Prophets.” The Old Testament points to Jesus Christ. Fourth, God’s way of putting men right with Himself is “through faith in Jesus Christ for all those who believe” (see verse 22). Salvation is by faith and not by works (see also Ephesians 2:8-9). God offers salvation to “all those who believe” (verse 22), without distinction. All men need the righteousness that God offers because “all have sinned and fall short of the glory of God” (see verse 23).

A Meaningful Explanation: Romans 3:24-26

In Romans 3:24-26, Paul explains what God has done for sinful man through His Son by using three metaphors. The first metaphor, which Paul uses to describe what God has done for man, is the metaphor of the courtroom. Paul used the legal term “justified” in verse 24. This term depicts man as guilty in a court of law, awaiting the dreadful sentence he deserves. But because of the work of Jesus on the cross, man hears the verdict “Acquitted!” To be justified before God means that God’s justice has been satisfied through the substitutionary death of the Lord Jesus Christ. The second metaphor, which Paul uses to describe what God has done for man, is the metaphor of the slave market. Paul also used the word “redemption” in verse 24. This word means “to buy a slave out of bondage in order to set him free.” This is what God has done for sinful man. He has secured our freedom from the bondage of sin through the payment of a great price, the blood of His own Son. The third metaphor, which Paul uses to describe what God has done for man, is the metaphor of sacrifice. Paul used the word “propitiation” in verse 25. The word carries with it the idea of appeasing an angry deity by a sacrificial offering. God has been propitiated through the work of Christ on Calvary.

A Marvelous Declaration: Romans 3:27-31

Paul concludes this great section of his letter with three marvelous declarations about God’s way of putting men right with Himself. First, Paul declares that God’s way of putting men right with Himself eliminates all boasting (see verses 27-28). If men were put right with God by virtue of their good works or human merit, then they would have grounds for boasting. But that is not how men are put right with God. Men are put right with God when they acknowledge their helpless sinful condition and place their faith in Christ alone (see Ephesians 2:8-9). Second, Paul declares that God’s way of putting men right with Himself puts all men on the same footing before God (see verses 29-30). Paul declares that God is the God of both Jews and Gentiles alike. He does not have one way of salvation for the Jews and another for the Gentiles. All men must come to God on the same basis, namely through faith in Christ alone. Third, Paul declares that God’s way of putting men right with Himself establishes the true purpose of the Law (see verse 31). Some of Paul’s Jewish readers probably thought that justification by faith destroyed or nullified the Law. But Paul made it clear that this is not the case. The only thing that justification by faith destroys is the false hope of the man who is depending upon the Law for salvation (see verse 20). Paul’s message of justification by faith (God’s way of putting men right with Himself) actually establishes the true purpose of the Law in God’s divine plan, namely to reveal to men their sinfulness and point them to the Savior. Thus we have the very good news that God has an answer to man’s dreadful problem.

Practical Considerations

God has not left man without hope.
The cross of Christ bears testimony to the fact that God has not left man without hope. While every man stands convicted under the weight of evidence against him, every man has equal access to the cross of Christ where he can find redemption, the forgiveness of sins. The cross is the place where helpless men find help and where hopeless men find hope.

God has determined the way of salvation.
God has determined the way of salvation. He did not leave it up to man to decide. God has determined that the way of salvation is (1) apart from the Law, (2) through faith in Jesus Christ, and (3) for all those who believe. If the way of salvation had been left up to man, works and human merit would undoubtedly have been high on the agenda. But since God determined the way of salvation, He put it on the lower shelf where it is within the reach of all men.

We don’t deserve God’s gift of salvation, nor can we earn it.
Paul stated in Romans 3:24 that we are “justified as a gift by His grace.” Paul also stated in Ephesians 2:8, “For by grace you have been saved through faith; and that not of yourselves, it is the gift of God; not as a result of works, that no one should boast.” Someone has defined “grace” as God’s Riches At Christ’s Expense. Grace is the free and unmerited favor of God. It reminds us that the salvation that God extends to man is not deserved or merited.

Because salvation is a gift from God, no man can boast.
One of the wonderful things about God’s way of putting men right with Himself is that it eliminates all pride and boasting and puts all men on the same footing before God. Because salvation is a gift from God, man can only boast of what God has done, rather than what he has done. A moral man cannot look down upon an immoral man and claim to have any boasting rights. Both men must come to God in exactly the same manner. Both men must receive God’s gift of salvation in exactly the same manner. Neither man can point a belittling finger at the other or a boastful finger at himself.

THE GOOD NEWS IS NOT NEW NEWS!

Romans 4:1-25

The Good News is not New News! Paul declares in Romans 1:2 that the Good News he had been set apart to proclaim was actually not New News, but had its roots deep in the Old Testament. The gospel which Paul had been set apart to proclaim was the gospel “which He [God] promised beforehand through His prophets in the holy Scriptures.” We see this illustrated in Luke 24:13-35. After His resurrection, Jesus encountered two men on the road to Emmaus. The men were sad because of the events that had just taken place in Jerusalem. Luke 24:27 records that “beginning with Moses and with all the prophets, He [Jesus] explained to them the things concerning Himself in all the Scriptures.” In Romans 3:21, Paul again declares that the Good News is not New News. Paul states that the Good News about how God puts men in right standing with Himself was “witnessed by the Law and the Prophets.” The entire Old Testament points to the person of the Lord Jesus Christ. In Romans 4, Paul explains in greater detail the fact that the Good News about how man is put right with God is not at all New News but actually has its origin in the Old Testament. Using Abraham as an example, Paul illustrates the fact that the Good News is not New News! The Good News of justification by faith is God’s established way of dealing with man from the first. Paul shows that even Abraham, the great patriarch of the Jewish nation, the “friend of God” (Isaiah 41:8), was justified by faith.

Justification is Apart from Works: Romans 4:1-8

In Romans 3:21-31, Paul established the fact that men enter into a right standing with God through faith alone, apart from any works. Because of that, all boasting is eliminated (Romans 3:27). As Paul stated in Ephesians 2:8-9, “For by grace you have been saved through faith; and that not of yourselves, it is the gift of God; not as a result of works, that no one should boast.” Perhaps anticipating objections from Jewish readers, Paul addressed the matter of how, when, and why Abraham was made righteous. Paul intended to show that God has not changed His way of putting men right with Himself. It has always been through faith alone.

In Romans 4:1-8, Paul shows that Abraham was not put in right standing with God because of his works, as the Jews believed, but because of his faith in God. Quoting Genesis 15:6, Paul appeals to the testimony of Scripture to establish the fact that “Abraham believed God, and it was reckoned to him as righteousness” (Romans 4:3). The Old Testament account of Abraham says absolutely nothing about Abraham earning or meriting or working his way into a right relationship with God. God made a promise to Abraham and “Abraham believed God and it [his faith] was reckoned [credited to his account] to him as righteousness.”

Justification is Apart from Religion: Romans 4:9-12

The Jews (like many people today) were leaning on two crutches for salvation: their own imagined goodness or righteousness and their religiousness and observance of rites. Having removed the first crutch by showing that salvation is apart from works, Paul proceeds to remove the second crutch by showing that salvation is apart from religion. Paul addresses this matter by appealing once again to Abraham and the most important religious rite of the Jew – circumcision. The Jews believed that salvation was impossible apart from the administration of this rite and insisted that all Gentile converts be circumcised. Paul however, shows that Abraham was put in right standing with God fourteen years before he was ever circumcised. The rite of circumcision had absolutely nothing to do with Abraham’s redemption. Circumcision was given as a “sign” and a “seal.” As a “sign” it was evidence that Abraham belonged to God and believed His promise. As a “seal” it was a reminder that the God who had given Abraham the promise would keep it. Thus Paul illustrates that God’s way of putting men right with Himself has always been apart from works and apart from religion and the observance of religious rites.

Justification is Apart from the Law: Romans 4:13-15

Having shown that neither works nor circumcision had anything to do with Abraham’s salvation, Paul proceeds to show that the Law had nothing to do with it either. The Jews believed that Abraham fulfilled the requirements of the Law and therefore was given the promise from God that he would be the father of many nations. Paul however, argues that Abraham was justified 400 years before the Law was given through Moses and was justified by faith alone.

Justification is Available to All Who Believe: Romans 4:16-25

Paul concludes Romans 4 by showing that justification is available to all who, like Abraham, believe. Paul writes in Romans 4:16-17a that God’s divine plan of salvation is based upon faith (on man’s part) and grace (on God’s part). Paul discusses the object of Abraham’s faith in Romans 4:17b. Abraham’s faith was fixed upon God who “gives life to the dead” and “calls into being that which does not exist.” In Romans 4:18-22, Paul discusses the obstacles to faith with which Abraham had to contend. Whenever we are called to exercise faith, we can be certain that there will be obstacles. God had made a promise to Abraham that seemed impossible to fulfill from a human standpoint (see Genesis 15). But Abraham chose to look beyond the actualities and believe that God was able to perform what He promised. “Therefore also [for this reason] it [faith] was reckoned to him as righteousness” (Romans 4:22). In Romans 4:23-25 Paul writes that the same kind of faith that put Abraham in right standing with God can put us in right standing with God if we “believe in Him who raised Jesus our Lord from the dead, He who was delivered up because of our transgressions, and was raised because of our justification.” Thus Paul illustrates that the Good News is not really New News. The Old Testament agrees with the New Testament that salvation is by faith alone, apart from works, religion, or law.

Practical Considerations

Salvation is not a matter of trying but of trusting.
God has not made salvation a matter of trying. If God had made salvation a matter of trying, then it would not have been necessary for Christ to die on the cross. If God had made salvation a matter of trying, then men would enter eternity without the certainty that they had “tried” enough to “earn” eternal life. Instead, God has made salvation a matter of trusting. God has graciously made provision for us to enter into a right relationship with Him through the Lord Jesus Christ. He offers us the gift of eternal life through Jesus Christ. Because salvation is a matter of trusting, we can enter into eternity with the certainty that we have eternal life if we have placed our faith in Christ alone for salvation.

Salvation is not found in religion but in a relationship.
Salvation cannot be found in religion or in the observance of the rites, rules, and rituals of religion. There is nothing in religion that can put a man in right standing before God. Proverbs 14:12 is a sound warning to any man who is looking for a right standing with God through religion: “There is a way which seems right to a man, But its end is the way of death.” Men who look to religion as the means of attaining a right standing with God will be sorely disappointed; regardless of how sincerely they have observed the particular rites of their religion. Salvation can only be found in a personal relationship with Jesus Christ. Jesus said in John 14:6, “I am the way, and the truth, and the life; no one comes to the Father, but through Me.”

God is a great God.
Abraham’s faith was fixed upon God. Abraham was able to believe the promise of God and face the future with confidence because he believed that nothing was impossible for God. He knew that God had the power to give life to the dead and call into being, that which does not exist. Abraham chose to believe even when faced with the actualities of his human condition and every human indication that God’s promise to him could not possibly be fulfilled. As a result he grew strong in faith and brought glory to God. Abraham exercised a faith that honored God and God honored the faith of Abraham.

SOME GOOD NEWS ABOUT THE GOOD NEWS!

Romans 5:1-11

Paul begins Romans 5 with the word “Therefore.” Someone has said that whenever you come across the word “Therefore” you need to know what it is there for! The word “Therefore” in Romans 5:1 links what Paul has just written with what he is about to write. It can be understood as meaning, “In light of what I have just written,” or “As a result of our justification.” Paul uses the word “Therefore” to introduce his discussion of some good news about the Good News. Romans 5:1-11 contains some very good news about the blessings or benefits that the man who has been put right with God enjoys. In Romans 5:1-2, Paul shares some good news about our position in Christ. In Romans 5:3-5, Paul shares some good news about our problems in life. In Romans 5:6-11, Paul shares some good news about the proof of God’s love.

Some Good News About Our Position in Christ: Romans 5:1-2

Paul begins his discussion by sharing some good news about our position in Christ. According to Romans 5:1-2, there are three benefits that accrue to the man who has been “justified by faith.” First, the man who has been justified by faith enjoys “peace with God.” Paul has already discussed the fact that before men are justified they are at enmity with God and under the wrath of God (see also Ephesians 2:1-3). The phrase “peace with God” speaks of the change in relationship that is enjoyed by the man who was under condemnation but now enjoys the forgiveness of God. It means to be in a right relationship with God. “Peace with God” takes care of the past. It assures us that God will no longer hold our sins against us. Second, the man who has been justified by faith enjoys access to God. Paul writes that through Christ “we have obtained our introduction by faith into this grace in which we stand [that is, the state of our acceptance with God].” The word “introduction” actually means “access”. Through Christ we have access to God. “Access to God” takes care of the present. It assures us that we can come to God at any time for the help we need. Third, the man who has been justified by faith enjoys the prospect of glory. The man who has been justified by faith has a future, something to look forward to. When life comes to an end that is not the end of the story. The believer confidently anticipates that something lies beyond. “Hope of the glory of God” takes care of the future. It assures us that one day we will share in His glory and spend eternity with Him.

Some Good News About Our Problems in Life: Romans 5:3-5

Paul shares some good news about our problems in life in Romans 5:3-5. Notice three things in these verses. First, the man who has been justified by faith is not exempt from problems. Some people live under the mistaken notion that once a person becomes a Christian he will experience fewer problems in life. That however, is not the case. Jesus said, “In the world you have tribulation” (John 16:33). But for the man who has been justified by faith, problems and trials work for him and not against him. Second, the man who has been justified by faith can exult (rejoice) in problems, pressures, and trials. The whole idea of exulting in tribulation is contrary to human nature. But the person who has been justified by faith can rejoice in tribulation because he knows something. His rejoicing is based on the knowledge of something. Third, the man who has been justified by faith experiences personal growth because of problems. He can rejoice because he knows that God is able to use life’s problems and trials to mold him more into the image of Christ. He knows that “tribulation brings about perseverance.” The word “tribulation” means “intense pressure.” The word “perseverance” translates a Greek word meaning “staying under.” It denotes staying power. The man who has been justified by faith can rest in the assurance that “tribulation brings about perseverance, and perseverance, proven character.” The term “proven character” comes from a word that was used of the process of purifying metal by removing the impurities. God uses tribulation to prove and improve our character. And “proven character” produces “hope.” The man who enjoys “peace with God” faces the problems and trials of life differently than other men. He faces them with the confident assurance that they will work to strengthen his character and develop a steadiness in his life. Because the believer experiences the sustaining hand of God through life’s difficulties, his hope in God is never disappointed.

Some Good News About the Proof of God’s Love: Romans 5:6-11

Paul shares some good news about the proof of God’s love in Romans 5:6-11. Notice what Paul writes about the proof of God’s love. First, God’s love is undeserved. Paul writes, “For while we were still helpless, at the right time Christ died for the ungodly” (Romans 5:6). Christ died for us while we were helpless, powerless, and without strength to do anything that pleased God. Christ died or us while we were ungodly, without anything in us that deserved God’s love. Second, God’s love is incomparable. “But God demonstrates [gives proof of] His own love toward us, in that while we were yet sinners, Christ died for us.” We see the surpassing value of the love of God in that Christ died for those at enmity with God. Third, God’s love assures us of the security of our salvation. Paul argues from the greater to the lesser in Romans 5:9-11. In other words, since Christ died for us while we were yet sinners and at enmity with God, how much more will He save us from the future wrath of God. Someone has written, “If God has done so much for His enemies, what will He not do for His friends?” Thus, because God has reconciled us to Himself, we have reason to rejoice.

Practical Considerations

Christians have much about which to rejoice and give thanks.
The Christian has much about which he can rejoice. He can live with the assurance that God has dealt with his past, is available to help him in the present, and has a wonderful future for him in heaven. The Christian can face problems with the assurance that God will use them in the process of conforming him into the image of Christ. The Christian can live life with the assurance that God loves him, an assurance that he often takes for granted.

Charles Swindoll offers the following practical suggestions:

A. The secret of rejoicing is having the right focus.
God’s ultimate goal for us is that we be just like Christ. If we keep this in mind, then, regardless of our circumstances, we will be able to rejoice.

B. The willingness to focus involves having the right attitude.
We need to have a teachable, humble attitude that can express itself in thanksgiving, even during the worst of times. With this kind of unselfish outlook we can better focus on the goal of Christ-likeness.

C. The result of a right attitude is an unquestionable optimism.
Knowing that the events of our lives are designed to chisel away our imperfections and to renew us into Christ’s image should create in us a contagious, enduring joy.

God will perfect the good work He began in us.
Paul stated in Philippians 1:6, “For I am confident of this very thing, that He who began a good work in you will perfect it until the day of Christ Jesus.” God began a good work in our lives on the day that we were justified by faith. We can be assured that He will see that work through to completion, even when we are in the midst of problems and tribulations. That is another reason we can rejoice in tribulations.

SOME GOOD NEWS ABOUT BEING IN CHRIST!

Romans 5:12-21

In Romans 5:12-21, Paul shares some good news about being in Christ. He does so by drawing certain comparisons and contrasts between Adam and Christ. Paul sees Adam and Christ as two representatives of mankind. Before men enter into a right relationship with Christ they are seen as being “in Adam.” As such, they are subject to sin, death, and condemnation. Once men place their faith in Christ however, they are seen as being “in Christ” and as such are the beneficiaries of God’s gift of eternal life. In our lesson today we will consider what men have “in Adam” and what they have “in Christ.”

Consequences: Romans 5:12-14

In Romans 5:12-14, Paul writes about what Adam introduced into the world. First, Adam introduced the presence of sin into the world. Paul writes in Romans 5:12, “through one man [Adam] sin entered into the world [had its beginnings in the human race].” This is a reference to the events of Genesis 1-3. The Bible puts the full blame for sin squarely on the shoulders of Adam. Second, sin introduced death into the world. The presence of sin was accompanied by the penalty of sin, death. Paul writes, “Through one man sin entered into the world, and death through sin, and so death spread to all men, because all sinned.” God told Adam, “But from the tree of the knowledge of good and evil you shall not eat, for in the day that you eat from it you shall surely die (Genesis 2:17).” Rather than heeding the Word of God, Adam heeded the word of the serpent who said, “You surely shall not die (Genesis 3:4).” Adam was wrong, God was right, and death was introduced into the world. Third, sin’s entry into the world also introduced the power of sin. Paul writes of the power of sin in Romans 5:13-14 where he states that “death reigned.” Death reigned like a tyrannical ruler over mankind.

Contrasts: Romans 5:15-17

In Romans 5:15, Adam’s transgression is contrasted with Christ’s free gift. “But the free gift [of a status of righteousness before God] is not like the transgression. For if by the transgression of the one [Adam] the many [all men] died, much more did the grace of God and the gift by the grace of the one man, Jesus Christ, abound to many.” The sin of Adam introduced death to the human race but the gift of God introduced the way of salvation. Notice the reference to “much more” in verse 15. God always offers “much more.” He offers the “much more” of spiritual, abundant, and eternal life to those who will believe. Those who are “in Adam” have nothing to look forward to but death and eternal separation from God. Those who are “in Christ” can look forward to an abundant life that will culminate in eternal life.

In Romans 5:16, condemnation is contrasted with justification. According to this verse, “judgment resulting in condemnation” followed Adam’s transgression. In contrast, the free gift of God “arose from many transgressions resulting in justification.” Adam’s one transgression brought death to all who were in him. Christ’s died once and brought justification to all who are in Him. In Romans 5:17, the reign of death is contrasted with the reign of life. Adam’s transgression permitted death to reign over the whole human race. Those who are in Christ however, will “reign in life.” They no longer have to fear death and its awful consequences.

Comparisons: Romans 5:18-19

In Romans 5:18-19, Paul draws some comparisons between Adam and Christ. In Romans 5:18, Paul compares the result of Adam’s transgression with the result of Christ’s act of righteousness. The result of Adam’s disobedience was condemnation. Adam’s gift to mankind is sin, death, judgment, and condemnation. But the result of Christ’s act of obedience is justification to all who put their trust in Him. In Romans 5:19, Paul compares the result of Adam’s disobedience with the result of Christ’s obedience. Through Adam’s disobedience (the first act of sin which plunged humanity into sin) men were constituted sinners. Through Christ’s act of obedience however, a right standing with God is available to all who believe.

Conclusion: Romans 5:20-21

Paul concludes this section of Romans by writing of the triumph of grace over sin. Romans 5:20-21 supports the fact that the Law was not given to remedy the sin problem. The Law accentuates and aggravates the sin problem. Tell a child that he is forbidden from doing something and see what happens! The Law also accentuates man’s need for redemption. Paul writes that “where sin increased, grace abounded all the more.” God’s grace superabounds so that through faith men might be rescued from sin and death. And so, in Romans 5:12-21 we see Adam as the representative of ruined humanity and Christ as the representative of redeemed humanity. We see that in Adam all men are sinners but in Christ all men are saints. In Adam we find that death reigns but in Christ we find that deliverance reigns. In Adam the see offense but in Christ we see obedience. What a blessing indeed to be in Christ!

Practical Considerations

Adam: Representative of ruined humanity.
Christ: Representative of redeemed humanity.

Adam: Introduced presence, penalty, and power of sin to all mankind.
Christ: Provides deliverance from the penalty and power of sin and, one day, from the presence of sin.

Adam: Introduced death to the human race.
Christ: Introduced the way of salvation to mankind.

Adam: Those “in Adam” have only death and separation from God to look forward to.
Christ: Those “in Christ” have the “much more” of life to look forward to.

Adam: “Judgment resulting in condemnation” followed Adam’s transgressions.
Christ: Brought justification to all who are in Him.

Adam: Death reigns because of Adam’s sin.
Christ: Those who are “in Christ” shall “reign in life.”

Adam: Brought sin and misery through disobedience.
Christ: Brought right standing with God to all who believe.

Adam: All people are sinners.
Christ: All people are saints.

Adam: Death reigns.
Christ: Deliverance reigns.

PRINCIPLES OF CHRISTIAN LIVING

Romans 6:1-23

Paul began his letter to the Romans by setting forth the theme of the letter: “the righteousness of God” (see Romans 1:1-17). Paul then wrote about man’s need of salvation by building a case against the heathen, the hypocrite, the Hebrew, and all humanity (see Romans 1:18-3:20). After establishing the fact that all men need the righteousness of God, Paul wrote about God’s provision for man’s justification (see Romans 3:21-5:21). Romans 1-5 deals with the matter of justification, that is, why and how a man can enter into a right relationship with God through faith in the Lord Jesus Christ. Justification addresses the matter of our salvation from the penalty of sin. In chapters 6-8 of Romans, Paul deals with the matter of sanctification. Sanctification addresses the matter of our salvation from the power of sin. Sanctification concerns how God progressively conforms the believer more and more into the image of Christ. In Romans 6 Paul deals with the principles of Christian living and how we can live lives of victory. In Romans 7 he deals with the practice of Christian living and how we can live lives of liberty. In Romans 8 he deals with the matter of power for Christian living and how we can live lives of security. In our lesson today we will examine the principles of Christian living.

What Every Christian Should Know: Romans 6:1-10

Paul begins Romans 6 by asking two questions: “What shall we say then? Are we to continue in sin that grace might increase?” (Romans 6:1). The thought of this verse is captured in the following paraphrase: “Paul, do you mean to tell me that God is willing to forgive a person’s sins as often as he commits them? Well then, if that is the case, shall we Christians keep on habitually sinning in order that God may have an opportunity to forgive us and thus display His grace?” Paul answers the question with an emphatic “May it never be! How shall we who died to sin still live in it?” (Romans 6:2). When a person comes to faith in Jesus Christ, his relationship to sin is changed. He is no longer “dead in sin” but now “dead to sin.” The believer can no longer have the same cordial relationship he had with sin before his conversion. He is to be “dead to sin,” that is, as unresponsive to sin as a dead person.

According to Romans 6:3-4, believers’ baptism is a symbolic representation of the believer’s death to sin. It symbolizes the believer’s participation in the death, burial, and resurrection of Jesus Christ. It beautifully illustrates the believer’s identification with Christ. The lowering into the water represents death and burial and the rising from the water represents resurrection to “walk in newness of life.” A believer cannot continue in sin because he has died to sin and that death is to be reflected in a new way of living. Paul expands on this thought in Romans 6:6-7 where he explains that the believer has been crucified with Christ (see also Galatians 2:20) and is under no obligation to present himself as a slave to sin.

What Every Christian Should Consider: Romans 6:11

In Romans 6:11 we come across the first exhortation in the book of Romans. Paul writes, “Even so [continually] consider yourselves to be dead to sin [as an enslaving power], but alive to God in Christ Jesus.” Paul exhorts the believer to consider (to take into account, to count) himself to be dead to sin. When he is faced with temptation, he is to be as unresponsive to it as a dead person. But when God asks the believer to do something, he should consider himself as very much alive and responsive to God, giving absolute obedience to Him. Notice that God does not command the believer to be dead to sin. That is because the believer is already dead to sin. He must act upon that fact.

What Every Christian Should Present: Romans 6:12-23

In Romans 6:12-23, Paul writes that our conduct should reflect that we are what we consider ourselves to be, that is, dead to sin but alive to God. In Romans 6:12-13, Paul exhorts the believer to stop allowing the old sinful nature to reign as king in his mortal body and to stop presenting the members of his body as instruments of unrighteousness. The believer must not put the members of his body at the disposal of his sinful nature to be used as instruments or weapons of unrighteousness. The believer should place his entire being at God’s disposal. Chuck Swindoll paraphrases the thought of these verses, “Start living in a manner that manifests your right standing before God. Be Christlike in what you think, say, and do.”

Paul asks another question in Romans 6:15, “What then? Shall we sin because we are not under law but under grace?” The thought of this verse can be paraphrased: “Surely we may take a night off now and then and sin a little bit since we are under grace.” Paul answers this question in the same manner he answered the question of verse 1, “May it never be!” Paul stresses in verse 16 that when an individual presents himself to sin, he becomes sin’s slave (see also John 8:34). In Romans 6:17-20, Paul declares that the believer was once a slave and servant of sin, but since he has been set free by the Lord Jesus Christ, he is now to have a new loyalty. No longer is he to be loyal to his old master by presenting his members as slaves to sin. He is to be loyal to his new Master and present his members as instruments of righteousness. Paul concludes in Romans 6:21-23 by pointing out that service to sin and service to God each have their own reward. Service or obedience to sin is rewarded by shame and death. Service and obedience to God is rewarded by a life that is continually being conformed into the image of Christ and will one day culminate in eternal life.

Practical Considerations

The believer should have a new attitude toward sin.
According to Romans 6, the believer is to have a new attitude toward sin. He must not think that he can have the same cordial relationship with sin that he had in pre-conversion days. He must be as unresponsive as a dead man to sin.

The believer should have a new attitude toward God.
According to Romans 6, the believer is to have a new attitude toward God. He is to be alive to God. He is to live his life in loyal obedience to God. Because the believer has a new relationship with God, he is no longer “dead in sin” but rather “dead to sin” and alive to God.

The believer should commit his members to God.
The believer should be careful to commit his entire being to God. There is a children’s rhyme that cautions, “Be careful little hands what you do…Be careful little eyes what you see…Be careful little ears what you hear.” The believer has a responsibility to yield himself to God and God alone. His entire being should be reserved for God’s use. He should not allow any of his members to become instruments of unrighteousness that keep him from being a proper witness and living a holy life.

The believer should live in a godly manner.
The believer’s life should reflect his attitude toward sin and his relationship with God. The watching world will never be convinced of the difference that God is able to make in the life of a believer unless the believer’s life reflects the difference. The watching world will have little incentive to enter into a right relationship with God if there is not a significant line of demarcation between the life of the believer and the life that they are living.

THE STRUGGLING CHRISTIAN

Romans 7:1-25

Romans 7 is a chapter that can give hope to the believer who understands the truths of Romans 6 but still finds himself struggling daily with his old sin nature. While Romans 6 announces that the believer has died to sin and is to be alive to God, Romans 7 announces that the believer will still struggle to reckon himself dead (unresponsive) to sin and alive (responsive and obedient) to God. In Romans 7, the great Apostle Paul admitted that he also struggled with wrongdoing. Paul discusses the battle that every Christian fights to live life in a manner pleasing to God and prepares us for the announcement of the good news of Romans 8: God offers the believer power for living life in a manner pleasing to Him.

Delivered from the Law: Romans 7:1-6

In Romans 6:14-15, Paul wrote that the believer is no longer under law but under grace. Paul wanted for his readers to understand that the law is absolutely powerless when it comes to helping men live lives that are pleasing to God. But because a believer is under grace, he has available to him all of the resources necessary for living life in a manner that pleases God. In Romans 7, Paul expands on the thought of Romans 6:14-15 by declaring that the believer has been delivered from the law. Paul uses the illustration of a husband and wife in Romans 7:2-3 to make his point. Death dissolves a woman’s legal obligation to her husband and frees her to marry another. In like manner, the believer has been released from (the condemnation of) the law by virtue of his union with Christ. The believer is to “bear fruit for God” (Romans 7:4), that is, serve God. The believer has been released from the tyranny and condemnation of the law to serve God “in newness of the Spirit [that is, empowered by the Holy Spirit] and not in oldness of the letter” (Romans 7:6).

Doomed by the Law: Romans 7:7-13

Romans 7:7-13 is an autobiographical section. In this section Paul uses the past tense as he thinks back to his preconversion days. Paul reflects on the role the Law played in his life. Notice four things which the Law does. First, the Law reveals sin. Paul declares in Romans 7:7 that he “would not have come to know sin except through the Law.” The Law of God establishes what is right and wrong and exposes whatever falls short of it. Second, the Law arouses and awakens the impulse to sin. Paul states in Romans 7:8 that sin takes opportunity through the commandment. Sin uses the good commands of God as a base of operations to get men to sin. If God has said “Thou shalt not…” then sin awakens in men the desire to violate God’s prohibition. Paul writes that “apart from the Law sin is dead.” This means that sin was dormant and Paul was not fully aware of its terrible power. But when he heard and learned the Law, sin was roused to activity. John MacArthur comments, “If you emphatically tell a person not to do something, he is much more tempted to do it than if you had said nothing.”

Third, according to Romans 7:9-11, the Law devastates the sinner. Paul states in Romans 7:9 that there was a time in his life when he was not aware of his resistance to and alienation from God (“And I was once alive apart from the Law”). Paul thought he was doing just fine and was content with his self-righteous life. Then “the commandment came” and Paul’s false sense of security was shattered as he came to the realization of his utter sinfulness. The Law revealed to Paul his desperate condition and condemnation before God. Fourth, the Law shows the sinfulness of sin. According to Romans 7:12-13 “the Law is holy, and the commandment is holy and righteous and good.” There is nothing wrong with the Law. It does its job of revealing sin. If a man commits murder and is sentenced to death, you cannot blame the law for convicting him. The law has simply exposed the man’s crime. The Law is “holy” because it is the standard of a holy God. It is “righteous,” which means it is equitable and fair. It is also “good” because it reveals to sinners their need for a Savior. The real enemy, writes Paul, is sin. It is sin that uses God’s good laws to fulfill its own evil purposes.

Defeated by the Law: Romans 7:14-25

Romans 7:14-25 is another autobiographical section. Paul however, now uses the present tense instead of the past tense to describe his experience at the time he wrote his letter to the Romans. In this section, Paul describes something of the civil war that occurs within each Christian, a civil war between his old and new natures. Paul also wrote about this struggle in Galatians 5:17, “For the flesh sets its desire against the Spirit, and the Spirit against the flesh; for these are in opposition to one another, so that you may not do the things that you please.” Even though a believer becomes a new creature in Christ, the old sin nature will continue to strive for the believer’s attention and obedience. Paul concludes this section by crying out, “Wretched man that I am! Who will set me free from this body of death?” (Romans 7:24). This cry comes from a man who is familiar with spiritual conflict and turmoil. It seems the closer an individual gets to God and the more he matures in the faith, the more aware he is of his sinfulness. Ray Stedman comments, “Blessed is the man who has arrived at spiritual bankruptcy, who cries, ‘What a wretched man I am!’ Why? Because this is the point – the only point – where God’s help is given.” Paul then answers the question of verse 24 in verse 25, “Thanks be to God through Jesus Christ our Lord!” The answer is found in Jesus Christ who alone can empower the believer to live life in a manner pleasing to God.

Practical Considerations

An overview of the role of the Law.
John MacArthur offers the following overview of the role of the Law in Romans. He writes:

Paul has been building up to an explanation of the law’s place since Chapter 3, when he first mentioned that the law couldn’t save us. Chapters 3-8 give us a comprehensive view of the law and its role. In this section we learn some important things about the law:

• It can’t save us   Romans 3-5
• It can’t make us holy   Romans 6
• It can’t condemn us if we’re in Christ   Romans 7:1-6
• It can convict us of sin   Romans 7:7-13
• It can’t deliver us from sin   Romans 7:14-25
• It can be fulfilled in the power of the indwelling Spirit   Romans 8:1-4

A realistic strategy for the civil war.
Charles Swindoll offers the following suggestions:

A. We should freely admit our own lack of understanding.
The Apostle Paul was able to say, “For that which I am doing, I do not understand; for I am not practicing what I would like to do, but I am doing the very thing I hate” (v.15). He didn’t always know why he failed to consistently please God. And he did not try to give people the impression that he was without problems. We would do well to model this kind of honesty before one another. Then we will discover the support from each other we need to carry on the fight.

B. We should accept our own imperfections.
Paul knew that he was saved, but he also realized that he still sinned. This did not make him complacent in his struggle against sin, but it did breed a realistic approach to life that even brought contentment in the midst of extreme adversity (Phil. 4:11-13; cf. 2 Cor. 11:23-30). The same benefit can be ours if we will begin by acknowledging our own sinfulness and inadequacy.

C. We should leave room for failure.
It’s quite easy for us to handle personal victory, but defeat is a different matter. We don’t want to face it, much less talk about it. But if we fail to realize that defeats will come, we will place unrealistic expectations on ourselves that can only lead to frustration and pessimism. God does not hate failure. After all, He loved failures so much that He sent His only Son to die for them. The Lord simply asks that we learn from our mistakes and use them to move closer to Him.

We should admit our true feelings to God.
Paul was able to acknowledge his struggle with sin. Similar confessions can be found throughout Scripture, especially the Psalms (e.g., Pss. 32, 51). The Lord wants us to unload our true feelings on Him. When we do, we will find comfort and peace (cf. Matt. 11:28-29).

12:1 Therefore, I urge [to beg or beseech] you, brothers, in view of God’s mercy, to offer [give, yield, present, to put at one’s disposal] your bodies [represent the total person; cf. Rom. 6:13] as living sacrifices [requires that we lay aside our own desires, make ourselves totally available to Him, and trust Him to guide us], holy [that which is set apart for God] and pleasing [acceptable, approved, satisfactory] to God—this is your spiritual [reasonable] act of worship [Gr. “latreian” refers to any act done for God].

12:2 Do not conform any longer to the pattern of this world [“Don’t let the world around you squeeze you into its own mould…” (J.B. Phillips)], but be transformed by the renewing of your mind [our thoughts control our attitudes, actions, and feelings]. Then you will be able to test and approve what God’s will is—his good, pleasing and perfect will.

12:3 For by the grace given me I say to every one of you: Do not think of yourself more highly [inflated pride] than you ought [cf. Phil. 2:3-4], but rather think of yourself with sober judgment, in accordance with the measure of faith God has given you.

12:4 Just as each of us has one body with many members [or parts], and these members [each part is important; all parts are interdependent] do not all have the same function,

12:5 so in Christ we who are many [there is diversity in the church] form one body, and each member belongs to all the others.

12:6 We have different [suggests that no two persons will function exactly alike] gifts [Gr. “charisma”; spiritual gifts come from God and are a matter of grace (Gr. “charis”); cf. 1 Cor.12:4-10; 28-30; Eph. 4:11; 1 Pet. 4:10-11], according to the grace given us. If a man’s gift [Paul listed seven gifts] is [1] prophesying [one who speaks forth God’s Word in an understandable and clear way], let him use it in proportion to [“in accord with”] his faith.

Note: How to discover your spiritual gift or gifts:
• Bible study
• Prayer
• Experience
• The counsel of others

12:7 If it is [2] serving [refers to any act of genuine service; cf. Mk. 10:35-45], let him serve; if it is [3] teaching [the orderly presentation of truth (the Scriptures, doctrine, Christian living)], let him teach;

12:8 if it is [4] encouraging [doing whatever is necessary to help someone mature spiritually; exhorting others to faithfully do God’s will], let him encourage; if it is [5] contributing to the needs of others [purposeful giving; giving related to specific needs], let him give generously [without expecting anything in return]; if it is [6] leadership [from term meaning “stand in front”; administration], let him govern diligently; if it is [7] showing mercy [showing godly compassion to hurting people (those who have faltered or fallen) in a practical way], let him do it cheerfully.

12:9 Love [Gr. “agape” refers to God’s kind of love] must be sincere [without hypocrisy]. Hate [detest] what is evil [that which works against the will and purposes of God]; cling [be glued to] to what is good.

12:10 Be devoted to one another in brotherly love. Honor [to give weight or consideration to] one another above yourselves [cf. Phil. 2:3-4].

12:11 Never be lacking in zeal [diligence; never quit; do not be lazy], but keep your spiritual fervor, serving the Lord.

12:12 Be joyful in hope [confident trust in God and His faithfulness to keep His promises], patient [to be steadfast] in affliction [pressure from variety of sources (including political, social, religious)], faithful [persistent] in prayer.

12:13 Share [Gr. “koinoneo”] with God’s people who are in need. Practice [pursue; look for ways to do it] hospitality.

12:14 Bless those who persecute you; bless and do not curse.

12:15 Rejoice with those who rejoice; mourn with those who mourn.

12:16 Live in harmony with one another. Do not be proud, but be willing to associate with people of low position. Do not be conceited.

12:17 Do not repay anyone evil for evil. Be careful to do what is right in the eyes of everybody.

12:18 If it is possible, as far as it depends on you, live at peace with everyone.

12:19 Do not take revenge, my friends, but leave room for God’s wrath, for it is written: “It is mine to avenge; I will repay,” says the Lord.

12:20 On the contrary: “If your enemy is hungry, feed him; if he is thirsty, give him something to drink. In doing this, you will heap burning coals on his head.”

12:21 Do not be overcome by evil, but overcome evil with good.

16:1 I [Paul wrote Romans from Corinth at end of third missionary journey] commend to you our Phoebe [carried Paul’s letter to the saints at Rome], a [2] servant of the church in Cenchrea [the eastern port of Corinth (cf. Acts 18:18)].

16:2 I ask you to receive her in the Lord in a way worthy of the saints and to give her any help she may need from you, for she has been [3] a great help [may suggest Phoebe was a wealthy person] to many people, including me.

16:3 Greet Priscilla and Aquila [once again living in Rome], my fellow workers [Gr. sunergous a compound of sun (means “together” or “with”) and ergon (means “work”); Paul could not do all the work alone; Paul depended on others to help him establish and strengthen churches] in Christ Jesus.

Note: Priscilla and Aquila lived in…
• Rome Acts 18:2
• Corinth Acts 18:2
• Ephesus Acts 18:19
• Rome Romans 16:3

16:4 They risked their lives [they had made themselves vulnerable to death for Paul, perhaps during the riot in Ephesus (Acts 19:23-41)] for me. Not only I but all the churches of the Gentiles are grateful to them.

16:5 Greet also the church [word never refers to a building in NT but always to believers; there was more than one local church in Rome] that meets at their house [this couple used their home for ministry (Acts 18:3,26); an indication of their courage, their love for the lost, and their love for fellow believers]. Greet my dear friend Epenetus, who was the first convert to Christ in the province of Asia.

Note: How can families today use their homes for the Lord? What are some benefits families could realize by opening their homes for Christian ministry?

16:6 Greet Mary, who worked very hard for you.

16:7 Greet Andronicus and Junia, my fellow Jews who have been in prison with me. They are outstanding among the apostles, and they were in Christ before I was.

16:8 Greet Ampliatus, my dear friend in the Lord.

16:9 Greet Urbanus, our co-worker in Christ, and my dear friend Stachys.

16:10 Greet Apelles, whose fidelity to Christ has stood the test. Greet those who belong to the household of Aristobulus.

16:11 Greet Herodion, my fellow Jew. Greet those in the household of Narcissus who are in the Lord.

16:12 Greet Tryphena and Tryphosa, those women who work hard in the Lord. Greet my dear friend Persis, another woman who has worked very hard in the Lord.

16:13 Greet Rufus, chosen in the Lord, and his mother, who has been a mother to me, too.

16:14 Greet Asyncritus, Phlegon, Hermes, Patrobas, Hermas and the other brothers and sisters with them.

16:15 Greet Philologus, Julia, Nereus and his sister, and Olympas and all the Lord’s people who are with them.

16:16 Greet one another with a holy kiss. All the churches of Christ send greetings.

16:17 I urge you, brothers and sisters, to watch out for those who cause divisions and put obstacles in your way that are contrary to the teaching you have learned. Keep away from them.

16:18 For such people are not serving our Lord Christ, but their own appetites. By smooth talk and flattery they deceive the minds of naive people.

16:19 Everyone has heard about your obedience, so I rejoice because of you; but I want you to be wise about what is good, and innocent about what is evil.

16:20  The God of peace will soon crush Satan under your feet. The grace of our Lord Jesus be with you.

16:21 Timothy, my co-worker, sends his greetings to you, as do Lucius, Jason and Sosipater, my fellow Jews.

16:22 I, Tertius, who wrote down this letter, greet you in the Lord.

16:23 Gaius, whose hospitality I and the whole church here enjoy, sends you his greetings. Erastus, who is the city’s director of public works, and our brother Quartus send you their greetings.

16:24 [Some manuscripts include here May the grace of our Lord Jesus Christ be with all of you. Amen]

16:25 Now to him who is able to establish you in accordance with my gospel, the message I proclaim about Jesus Christ, in keeping with the revelation of the mystery hidden for long ages past,

16:26 but now revealed and made known through the prophetic writings by the command of the eternal God, so that all the Gentiles might come to the obedience that comes from faith—

16:27 to the only wise God be glory forever through Jesus Christ! Amen.