Romans is an extraordinary book in its depth and width and richness and beauty. Its theological complexity challenges both mind and heart. Yet its premise is elemental: salvation through grace alone. It is written with authority and its grasp of the redemptive work of Jesus Christ is profound. John Piper, highly respected pastor and author, said that if he were allowed to share with people only one book that summed up God’s gospel message of redemption and grace, it would be Romans.
We begin our study with an examination of the author’s qualifications. Paul is arguably the greatest apostle in the Kingdom of God. What was it that gave him his credibility? How could he speak with such authority and boldness? Why was his ministry so effective? How could one man, self-described as “the foremost of sinners” (1 Timothy 1:15), be principally responsible for the early spread of the gospel throughout the known world? We begin in the book of Acts.
Stephen was a bold apostle, best known for his eloquent, God inspired speech before the Sanhedrin, the governing body of the Jews (Acts 7). The burgeoning church of Jesus Christ was a threat to the establishment, who worked tirelessly to squash what they perceived to be a radical subversive movement. Stephen became the first Christian martyr when he was stoned for propagating it.
Reflect
Read Acts 7:1-8:1. Pay close attention to verses 7:58 and 8:1. Who does scripture say was a witness to this horrific execution and what was his role?
Read Acts 9:1-31. Read this carefully from Paul’s (Saul’s) point of view. Imagine the confusion and fear. Write your thoughts about how Paul might have felt about his being chosen by Christ himself, the very leader of the movement he was trying to snuff out!
Read Philippians 3:4-7. Paul lists reasons why he could justify having “confidence in the flesh.” In other words, he was pointing out why he had been uniquely qualified to persecute Christ’s church on behalf of the Jews. What was the significance of these credentials, and why do you think Paul found it necessary to share them with his listeners?
Consider your own story. How are you uniquely qualified to share the gospel message in your sphere of influence?
Pray
Dear Father, thank you for leaving your Word to guide us and to teach us who you are. Thank you for Paul’s example, which helps us see that in your sovereignty and by your wisdom, you choose the most unlikely people to carry out your work. We ask for courage and clarity as we seek opportunities to spread your message of redemption and grace, for the sake of Christ. Amen