Start (and Continue) With Romans
Salvation by grace through faith in Christ’s finished work happens in the moment you trust Him (1 Corinthians 15:1-4; Ephesians 1:13-14). But learning how to live a life pleasing to God as a response to His abundant grace takes a lifetime of study. That’s why we are exhorted to “study to shew thyself approved unto God, a workman that needeth not to be ashamed, rightly dividing the word of truth” (2Ti 2:15).
We need God’s living, powerful Word to renew our minds and transform us from the inside out (Heb 4:12, Rom 12:1-2). Only then are we equipped to do His will: to see souls saved and saints edified (1Ti 2:4).
However, the Bible is a big book. There are 66 total books, 1,189 chapters, and 31,102 verses in total. It can be intimidating to crack open for many who are new Christians, as well as those who have been Christians their entire lives but have never really studied the Bible much, or don’t know how.
So…Where Do You Start?
All Scripture is profitable for our learning and hope (2Ti 3:16-17, Rom 15:4). But if you want to lay a strong foundation in the truths God has revealed for the church today, start with Romans.
Romans is the foundational doctrinal epistle for the Body of Christ. It establishes the gospel, clarifies our identity in Christ, and sets forth the walk God desires for His people today. It helps elucidate the preaching of Jesus Christ according to the revelation of the mystery (Eph 3:1-10, Col 1:24-27, 1Co 2:1-12):
“[25] Now to him that is of power to stablish you according to my gospel, and the preaching of Jesus Christ, according to the revelation of the mystery, which was kept secret since the world began, [26] But now is made manifest, and by the scriptures of the prophets, according to the commandment of the everlasting God, made known to all nations for the obedience of faith:” – Romans 16:25-26
Romans is a letter to the church in Rome, of whom Paul had never seen. Because of that, Paul, through the inspiration of the Holy Ghost, penned a comprehensive treatise whereby he lays out the most fundamental doctrines about salvation and service to the Lord in an organized fashion. For this reason, Romans is sometimes called “the Bible within the Bible.”
A Book for New and Mature Christians Alike
The beauty of Romans is that it establishes new believers while also providing endless depth for mature Christians. It grounds us in God’s truth and love while continually challenging us to grow.
Romans 1-3 exposes the universal problem of sin.
Romans 3-5 explains salvation by grace through faith in Christ’s finished cross-work.
Romans 6-8 teaches our new identity in Christ and how it shapes our walk.
Romans 9-11 explains Israel’s election, rejection of Christ, fall, and future restoration.
Romans 12-16 applies doctrine to practice: how to serve God, live charitably toward others, and walk wisely in a fallen world.
Romans gives believers the framework to understand salvation, identity, and service. That’s why it’s the best place to start, and the best place to keep coming back to.
How to Study Romans
As you work through Romans, don’t rush. Read it through multiple times. Write down your questions. Look up the meaning of words. Compare verses with other passages using a concordance (1Co 2:13). Write down your thoughts. Meditate prayerfully on what you read. You’ll be amazed not only at what you learn but at how many new questions will arise, leading you deeper into study. This is how God grows us: as we “search the scriptures.”(Jhn 5:39, Acts 17:11)
No one ever outgrows Romans. Every believer needs it, and every believer profits from it.
Looking Ahead
I’m especially excited because this week we’re beginning a verse-by-verse study of Romans together. While we began a study of Romans over 4 years ago, when we were located in Washington, it was interrupted by our ministry relocation to Florida. We have yet to traverse its depths in full, and I’m excited to begin the journey with you.
We’ll also be recording these verse-by-verse studies and posting them on our website and YouTube channel, alongside our Sunday sermons. This way, others can benefit from our study in the future, not just the outline. And don’t worry: our recordings will not include the questions or comments from in-person and online participants.
Romans is the chief epistle for the Christian life. Let’s start there, and continue there, as we grow together in Christ.
