Romans 1-6

The book of Romans is a book of good news amongst the bad. That is the literal meaning of the term "gospel" used here many times.

Paul declares that this good news is for everyone. There is something in here that anyone can relate to. It sounds like wishful thinking to have such optimism but Paul is coming at this from a hyper-realist perspective. He knows more than most the human condition. The spiritual illness that plagues us all (1:21). Our humanity is distorted by the things in life that we pursue outside of God. Those pursuits cause us to act selfishly, maliciously, and even violently.

Paul is writing to the church in Rome that was under a lot of tension. To try to resolve this, he makes it clear that no matter our background, we are all in the same boat. All people are born under the power of sin. We are all in this together and all need the transforming forgiveness of God.

The Good News

So what is the good news? Look at 3:21 and onwards. There Paul reveals the tip of the iceberg. There is a way in which we can stand redeemed by Jesus. Through faith and trust we can come to God, knowing only He can do for us what we cannot do ourselves. In repentance and admission of our sins God has mercy and grace. This gift is free and we are all invited to receive it.

Paul's Hope

Paul's hope for the church is that they reflect what we see in Jesus, so that all those lost people can see the good news amongst the bad. Jesus is a new humanity, and those who follow Him are transformed into new people who live only to praise and share the wonderful truth.