The apostle Paul wrote at least 13 of the 27 books in the New Testament, including the book of Romans. Paul is believed to have written this letter while he was in the city of Corinth, receiving financial gifts from the believers which he would then take to those in need in Jerusalem. Once he delivered the gifts and ministered to those in Jerusalem, his plan was to visit Rome, a city to which he had not yet visited, but had heard much of the faith of the believers there.

Our church will be reading through the book of Romans over the next several days. We would love for you to join us. As we read through Romans, pay particular attention to its primary theme: “the righteousness of God.” With other significant words and concepts, like “faith,” “justification,” “law,” and “grace,” Paul focuses on the righteousness of God which is revealed in the gospel (good news) of Jesus Christ.

Romans 1

Today we are reading the first chapter of Romana. As you read it, notice the central theme of Paul’s entire letter.

Paul opens his letter by introducing himself and his apostolic ministry to the believers in Rome, whom he had not yet met. He then presents the theme of his epistle in verses 16 and 17 – the righteousness of God revealed in the gospel of Jesus Christ. Paul contrasts God’s righteousness with human unrighteousness (self-righteousness).

We often want to define good and evil for ourselves. Self righteousness blinds us to our sinfulness, yet it is only when we recognize our sinfulness that we can humble ourselves to receive God’s righteousness available through Jesus Christ. Today, meditate on Romans 1:16-17 several times, allowing God to reveal the promise of His righteousness to you.

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