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Member’s Book
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Leaders and Members’ Basics

www.TheLAMBofCA.com
House Church Training Materials for Central Asia
See page 47 for the full curriculum.

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Table of Contents
How to Read and Study this Book ................................................................ 5
EXPLAINING THE FAITH ................................................................................ 7
Examining the Message................................................................................... 9
The City of Rome...........................................................................................10
The Author of the Letter ..............................................................................11
The Purposes of the Letter ...........................................................................12
The Central Theme ........................................................................................13
An Outline of “God’s Righteousness” .......................................................14
Greeting the Believers ...................................................................................15
THE GOSPEL – THE POWER OF GOD......................................................17
Understanding the Letter ..............................................................................19
The Key Verse of the Letter.........................................................................20
The Sin of Mankind .......................................................................................21
The Jews under Sin ........................................................................................22
Principles of God’s Judgment ......................................................................23
Three Important Questions..........................................................................24
“Charaz” ..........................................................................................................25
GOD’S PROVISION OF RIGHTOUSNESS..................................................27
God’s Wonderful Plan...................................................................................29
God’s Righteousness – Available through Isa ...........................................30
Justified by Faith.............................................................................................31
The Example of Abraham ............................................................................32
The Blessings of Justification .......................................................................33
Adam and Isa Masih ......................................................................................34
Our New Position ..........................................................................................35
Discussion Guide ...........................................................................................36

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SET FREE TO SERVE ........................................................................................ 37

Our Relationship to the Law........................................................................ 39
Our New Freedom in the Spirit .................................................................. 40
Israel’s Past, Present, and Future................................................................. 41
Consecration to God..................................................................................... 42
Subject to Authority ...................................................................................... 43
Consideration for the Weak ......................................................................... 44
Going on to Rome......................................................................................... 45

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How to Read and Study this Book

Greetings. As you start your study of “Romans,” you will see that
the book can be read in one month. The book has 28 chapters, which
are divided into 4 units. As you study, let us call your attention to three
parts of the book, which are as follows:
Meditation: At the beginning of each unit, you will see two
verses on which to mediate and apply to your life during the week.
Personal Thought Questions: There are seven chapters in each
unit. You can read a chapter a day or as many as you feel you have
time. Usually, there are questions near the end of each chapter about
which you will want to think and pray.
Discussion Guide: At the end of each unit, you will find
questions for church or small group discussion. These will help you
and your church better evaluate what you have learned during the
week. One method is for one person to read a question then have the
group discuss the question.
As disciples of Isa Masih, we want to be complete, equipped for
every good work. God has “prepared in advance” good works for us
to do (Ephesians 2:10). These are His good works, which He
continually works in and through us. However, in order to do any
good work, we must know God’s Holy Word and apply His Word in
our lives. “All Scripture is God-breathed and is useful for teaching,
rebuking, correcting and training in righteousness, so that the man of
God may be thoroughly equipped for every good work” (2 Timothy
3:16-17).
No matter how much we know about God’s Word, if we do not
apply what we learn, Scripture will never benefit our life. The
Scripture is “God-breathed.” We are to read it, memorize it, meditate
upon it, and use its teachings to guide our conduct.
Please read “Romans” in your Bible as you study this book. The
Letter to the Romans has 16 chapters. You can easily read the letter
during the 28 days of study if you will read at least four chapters each
week. Of course, you may read more if you desire.

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EXPLAINING THE
FAITH

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Meditate upon and apply these Scriptures to your life this week:

1. Romans 1:1 – “Paul, a servant of the Masih Isa, called to be an

apostle and set apart for the gospel of God…”
2. Romans 1:6 – “And you also are among those who are called to
belong to Isa Masih.”

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Examining the Message

What does it mean to be a believer? Do you know? Many people
today who call themselves “believers” have difficulty explaining exactly
what that means. Some talk in generalities about “doing good.” Others
say that “Christianity” means love. Others say it means “following
Isa.” Often, we do not have a clear idea about what it means to be a
disciple of Isa Masih.
Every born again believer should read the Letter to the Romans.
The apostle Paul wrote the letter to explain our faith. The Letter to the
Romans examines the message of our Redeemer and Savior, Isa
Masih. If we study Romans carefully, it will make a difference in the
way we think, and therefore, in what we believe.
Martin Luther (the great German leader of the Reformation and
theologian in the 16th century), wrote that the Letter to the Romans
is… “the true masterpiece of the New Testament and the very purest
Gospel, which is well worthy and deserving that a [believing] man
should not only learn it by heart, word for word, but also that he
should daily deal with it as the daily bread of men’s souls.” Romans
may be the most important book theologically in the whole New
Testament.
Studying this wonderful letter will give anyone a real mental
“workout” — but the study is vitally necessary to every servant of the
Lord. When we read and study Romans, we get a good knowledge of
what it means to be a true believer in Isa Masih. This letter explains
the gospel of Isa and reveals the wonderful picture of God’s salvation.
It explains God’s great work of justifying sinful man.
After you study the Letter to the Romans, you no longer need to
guess at what the gospel is all about, because you know. Therefore,
you can give a better explanation to your family and friends of exactly
what is the gospel of our Lord.
This letter may be difficult to understand. However, study it
diligently and may God speak to your heart through His Word. What
is the difference between “reading” and “studying” God’s Word?
What is the practical difference in your opinion?

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The City of Rome

Rome began in approximately 510 BC. From a small beginning,
the city became very large. It survived civil wars and military
campaigns, until in Paul’s day it had become a metropolis of great
wealth and power. There was also much poverty and slavery in the
city. Rome was the great superpower of its day. Its influence extended
from Britain to Africa and from Spain to Persia. Roman authorities
appointed their own people to govern the provinces throughout the
Empire. A superior road system made transportation and commerce
easier and this aided the rapid spread of Christianity in the first
century.
Overall, Rome’s government, economy, infrastructure, and
defense were strong enough to last for a thousand years. Moreover,
the Romans were a people in love with power. Perhaps that is why the
apostle Paul described the gospel to the Roman believers in terms of
power. He called the gospel “the power of God” (Romans 1:16).
Historians have given various estimates concerning the
population of Rome in the first century. Probably the estimate of
1,200,000 is nearest to the truth. An amazing fact is that most likely
about one-half of the population consisted of slaves. That means there
was a slave population of over half a million people.
By the middle of the first century, much moral and spiritual
deterioration had spread throughout the city and the empire. As
Christianity first began to spread, Rome was still the great world
power, but its decline had begun.
When Paul wrote this letter to the believers in Rome, the citizens
of the empire treated their “Caesars” (Emperors) like gods. Caesar had
great authority and power over many territories and peoples. Roman
citizens pledged their loyalty to the Caesar and declared that he was
“Lord.” However, Paul writes that Isa is the supreme Lord–over the
past, over the present, over all nations, and over our daily lives. He is
indeed Lord of all, including Rome!
With such a large number of slaves, how do you think this
affected the various house churches in the city of Rome?

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The Author of the Letter

The apostle Paul wrote the Letter to the Romans. Paul, who at
birth received the Jewish name Saul, was born in the city of Tarsus
located in Cilicia (Acts 22:3). His birth occurred probably between AD
1 and 5. Although he grew up in Greek culture, Paul remained loyal to
his Hebrew heritage (Philippians 3:5).
As Roman citizens, his family was probably wealthy and
influential (Acts 22:28). A Pharisee, Saul received a fine education
from the famous teacher Gamaliel (Acts 22:3). Saul held fast to a life
governed by the Law of Moses and most likely followed very strict
interpretations laid down by Jewish teachers.
Most likely, Paul wrote Romans during his third missionary
journey. He wrote from Corinth, probably in AD 57. Earlier, there had
been a collection for the poor believers who lived in Jerusalem (1
Corinthians 16:1-3 and 2 Corinthians 8). Now, the various churches
had completed that task and Paul was about to depart to Jerusalem to
deliver the funds (Romans 15:24–29). He told the Roman believers of
his plans to visit them on his way to Spain after delivering the gift of
money to the brothers in Jerusalem.
Paul planned to sail for Jerusalem directly. Phoebe was also about
to leave Corinth for Rome (Romans 16:1-2). Many think that she took
the letter to the Romans. However, a Jewish plot changed Paul’s plans.
Instead of sailing from Corinth, he went through Macedonia by foot
(Acts 20:3). The next spring he left Philippi headed for Jerusalem (Acts
20:6).
Several years later, although a prisoner, we can imagine Paul’s
excitement as he finally saw the legendary city of Rome and met the
believers for the first time (Acts 28:14-16). Though the Roman letter
comes before that first meeting, we see some of that anticipation as
Paul wrote the letter.
Paul began the letter to the Romans by identifying himself as the
author (Romans 1:1). He introduced himself by name, by identity
(servant), by vocation (apostle), and by purpose (set apart for the
gospel of God). Then he began to explain our faith in Isa. How did
Paul’s background help him as he wrote Romans?

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The Purposes of the Letter

In Romans, Paul carefully answers the crucial question: Why did
Jesus die? The apostle used his training as a Pharisee in writing this
letter. As a rabbi and a teacher of the Law, he knew very well how to
study difficult subjects and answer hard questions.
Paul’s other letters arise from a particular set of circumstances and
have a definite purpose. However, Romans is different – it seems to
have a general aim of teaching. Moreover, it is possible to see at least
three purposes Paul had in writing the letter.
His first purpose was to prepare the Romans for his journey to
Rome and later to Spain. He had planned the trip to Jerusalem, but his
vision was toward the west. He clearly says that he expects assistance
from them in his plan to take the gospel to Spain (Romans 15:24).
A second purpose involved Paul’s understanding that the
believers needed to be “strong” in the faith (Romans 1:11). Paul
wanted to give them sound doctrine and teaching. This letter is like a
“program of study” of Paul’s teaching. It reveals to the Roman
believers God’s plan of salvation for both Jews and Gentiles.
The third purpose for the letter was pastoral. Paul wanted Jewish
and Gentile believers to live in unity. Like most of the early churches,
the gospel brought different people together who otherwise would
have stayed apart, because of nationality, status, or culture. However,
they came together, began to fellowship and worship together, and
they served together. The challenge was to preserve their unity in Isa
Masih. Throughout the letter, Paul dealt with problems arising from
Jewish and Gentile differences.
He emphasized what everyone shared. Since there is only one
God, He is the God of both Jew and Gentile, who are both under sin
(Romans 3:9), and both are saved through faith (Romans 3:30). This
theme of the Jews and the Gentiles living together is clear in chapters
14 and 15, where Paul dealt with the practical aspects of being together
in one body. What other Scriptures do you know that speak about
unity?

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The Central Theme

Throughout the letter, Paul emphasizes his central theme: the
righteous God justifies both Jew and Gentile by grace through
faith. Stating this in a different way, we can say that we receive the
righteousness of God as a gift; our good works cannot obtain this
righteousness. Our salvation comes by God’s grace through our faith
in Isa Masih. God declares that we are righteous.
Romans thoroughly explains the meaning of the cross for the
believer’s life. While explaining why Jesus died for all mankind, Paul
writes about the sinfulness of man and the righteousness of God. The
apostle explains that our salvation is only through faith in Isa Masih –
it is not by any good works (good deeds) that we may do. We are
justified by grace through faith in Isa.
In addition to this central theme, Paul wrote about these other
important points of Christian doctrine:
„ Man’s rejection of God’s revelation
„ The death of Isa Masih on the cross
„ Sanctification – the believer’s death to sin
„ The believer’s freedom – life in Isa by the Holy Spirit’s
power
„ God’s sovereignty – a discussion of what happened to
the nation of Israel and the destiny of God’s people
„ God’s plan of salvation including Gentiles as well as
Jews
„ Spiritual gifts
„ Instructions on the believers’ relationship to the
government
„ Obedience to Isa involving sacrificial, practical living
Romans is a doctrinal book. It provides a systematic outline of the
essentials of our faith, and it is as useful to the mature believer as it is
to someone who wants an introduction to the faith.
Meditate for a few moments today on the central theme of the
Letter to the Romans. After your study of Romans is complete, write
the appropriate chapter and verse numbers beside each of the
“important points of Christian doctrine” listed above.

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An Outline of “God’s Righteousness”

Above all, Paul emphasizes the righteousness of God. He uses
some form of the word “righteous” over 60 times in Romans. We may
define “righteous” as “right standing with God.” God puts people in
right standing with Himself through their faith in Him.
We may also define “righteousness” as holy living, according to
God’s standard. The word “righteousness” comes from a word that
means “straightness.” It refers to a person who conforms to a
standard. God’s character is the definition and source of all
righteousness (Genesis 18:25 and Deuteronomy 32:4). Thus, we define
the righteousness of man in terms of God’s righteousness.
The Jewish sacrificial system and the cross of Isa show our need
for righteousness. Sin came into the world through Adam, and since
then, people have been inherently unrighteous. We cannot be
righteous in God’s eyes on our own merits. We must have God’s
righteousness transferred (credited) to us.
The cross of Isa is a demonstration of God’s righteousness. God
transfers the righteousness of Isa to those who trust in Him (Romans
4:3–25 and Philippians 3:9). We do not become righteous because of
our inherent goodness, but God sees us as righteous because of our
identification by faith with His Son.
Therefore, we will study the righteousness of God in this Letter.
Here is an outline that gives a “picture” of Romans:

„ 1:1–1:17 – Greetings and explanation

„ 1:18–3:20 – Man’s sin and his need for righteousness
„ 3:21–5:21 – God’s provision of righteousness –
salvation by grace (justification through faith alone)
„ 6–8 – God “sets apart” the righteous (sanctification) –
the believer’s new position, problem, and new power
„ 9–11 – God’s sovereignty and His plan of
righteousness which was rejected by Israel
„ 12 – 16 – The believer’s service to God – the practical
outworking of righteousness
Can you explain “righteousness” to an unbelieving friend?

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Greeting the Believers

The letter begins with Paul’s name and greeting, the normal style
of that era. He identified himself as a servant and an apostle, one
whom God set apart (sanctified) for the gospel (Romans 1:1). He
praised God by saying he “received grace and apostleship” (Romans
1:5). God called him and set him apart (Acts 13:1-3).
“Servant” has the meaning of “slave.” Paul wrote about a slavery
undertaken voluntarily out of love (Exodus 21:1–6). It was not like the
forced slavery of the Roman Empire. Paul emphasized he was a
servant to Isa Himself. Moreover, by calling himself an apostle, Paul
placed himself on the level of the twelve apostles and claimed
authority from God for his work.
The word “apostle” refers to leaders in the early church who
governed with God’s anointing and authority (1 Corinthians 12:28,
Galatians 1:17-19 and Ephesians 2:20). To qualify as an apostle in the
early church, one must have seen the risen Isa (Acts 1:22-26 and 1
Corinthians 9:1) and been sent (or, appointed) by Him (Matthew 10:1-
7, Acts 26:16-18 and Galatians 1:1).
Paul’s ministry is the Gospel, which he calls “the Gospel of God”
and the “Gospel of His Son” (Romans 1:1, 9). Paul quickly
emphasized to the Roman believers that God had promised the
Gospel in the Old Testament (Romans 1:2). Thus, Paul did not invent
the “Good News.” By relating the Gospel to the Old Testament, Paul
appealed to the Jewish believers reading his letter.
Then, Paul proved Isa’s humanity and deity. Isa was a Jew by His
human nature, but “…declared with power to be the Son of God by
His resurrection from the dead…” (Romans 1:3-4). Therefore, Isa
alone can be our Mediator. Moreover, the purpose of this Gospel is
“…to call people from among all the Gentiles to the obedience
that comes from faith” (Romans 1:5).
As he finishes his greeting, Paul tells the believers that Isa has also
called them. They are “called to be saints” (Romans 1:6-7). The Word
tells us a saint is a living believer in Isa. Only God can make sinners
into saints! Paul now begins to explain the faith. How does your
culture usually define the word “saint”?

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Discussion Guide
1. Ask the members of your house church group to discuss these
questions: a) Did Romans become clearer after reading it more
than once? b) How often should a believer read this Letter?
2. Do you think that describing the gospel in terms of power was an
effective way to speak to the people of Rome? Discuss the
difficulties that Roman believers faced when asked to declare that
Caesar was Lord (Please refer to 1 Corinthians 12:3).
3. Discuss how you think Paul felt as he prepared to meet the Roman
believers for the first time. Discuss Paul’s change in his travel
plans. Was this change against God’s will? Is it difficult for you to
change plans?
4. Discuss with your house church group Paul’s general purpose of
teaching the Roman believers through his letter. What does your
church feel is the best method of learning? Can anyone teach, or
only those who have a special gift of teaching?
5. In your house church group meeting, choose at least three of the
“important points of Christian doctrine” (page 13) and have a
thorough discussion for each one. Use your Bibles as much as
possible during the discussion periods.
6. Discuss with your house church how the people of your area think
of the word “righteous.” In your culture, how do most people
believe that you get into “right standing” with God? “God
transfers the righteousness of Isa”- can that phrase be understood
in your language and culture?
7. Discuss how Paul tried to relate to his fellow Jewish believers in
his greeting (Romans 1:1-7). In your culture, is it difficult to speak
of both the humanity and deity of Isa? Discuss various ways you
can approach this subject. Also, discuss at what point in time it
might be best to speak about this.

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THE GOSPEL – THE

POWER OF GOD

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Meditate upon and apply these Scriptures to your life this week:

1. Romans 1:17 – “For in the gospel a righteousness from God is

revealed, a righteousness that is by faith from first to last, just as it
is written: ‘The righteous will live by faith.’”
2. Romans 3:23 – “For all have sinned and fall short of the glory of
God”

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Understanding the Letter

In order to understand Romans, we must first examine the word
“salvation.” The New Testament speaks of salvation in three
different “tenses” – past tense (Ephesians 2:8), present tense (2
Corinthians 2:15), and future tense (Romans 13:11)
In the past, God saved the believer from the penalty of sin. In
the present, the Lord saves the believer from the power of sin. In the
future, God will save him from the very presence of sin (Matthew
5:10–12 and 2 Timothy 2:11–12).
Romans 1:16 states, “I am not ashamed of the gospel, because it
is the power of God for the salvation of everyone who believes…”
The word “salvation” used by Paul literally means deliverance or
rescue from the power and rule of sin. The gospel’s power frees and
delivers us from the tragic results of our own sin.
Isa Masih, by His sacrificial death in the place of sinners, is the
Author and Provider of salvation (Romans 3:24-25, Acts 4:12 and
Hebrews 12:2). God lovingly offers this deliverance to all people who
will repent and trust in Isa. They receive the blessings (John 3:16 and
Ephesians 2:8-9). As written above, these are the blessings of salvation
from the penalty, the power, and the presence of sin. The Bible
uses the terms justification, sanctification, and glorification to describe
these blessings.
Justification means God declares a sinner “righteous” because of
his faith in Isa. Isa paid for our sins completely on the cross.
Sanctification is the process in which God “shapes” the believer and
brings him to maturity (Philippians 1:6). Glorification occurs when he
is face to face with Isa Masih in heaven.
The words of Romans 1:17, “from first to last,” sum up God’s
great salvation. Faith is at the beginning and at the end. When we first
believe in Isa Masih, God saves us from the penalty of sin and
declares us righteous. As we live by faith, God continues to save us
from the power of sin so that we may live righteously. Then, one day,
we are in the presence of God, forever delivered from the presence of
all sin and evil. How does your culture understand the word
“salvation”?

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The Key Verse of the Letter

Many Bible scholars say that Romans 1:17 is the key verse of the
letter. In it, Paul announces the theme: “the righteousness of God.”
We said that Paul used the word “righteousness” in some way over
sixty times in his letter.
God demonstrated His righteousness in the Gospel – for in the
death of Isa, God revealed His righteousness by punishing sin. In
addition, in the resurrection of the Masih, He revealed His
righteousness by making salvation available to the believing sinner.
The Gospel answers the question, “How can a holy God ever forgive
sinners and still be holy?” Through the death and resurrection of Isa
Masih, God proves to be both “just and the One who justifies those
who have faith in Isa” (Romans 3:26).
The Gospel reveals a righteousness that is by faith. In the Old
Testament, people thought that righteousness was by works.
However, sinners discovered they could not obey God’s Law and meet
His righteous demands. In the last words of Romans 1:17, Paul quotes
Habakkuk 2:4: “The righteous will live by his faith.” We find this verse
two other times in the New Testament: Galatians 3:11 and Hebrews
10:38. [There are more than sixty references to either faith or unbelief
in the Letter to the Romans.]
So here in these verses (Romans 1:16-17), we have the theme of
the letter: the Gospel of Isa Masih reveals the righteousness of
God – a righteousness based on faith and not works. This
righteousness is available to all people, not just the Jews. Moreover,
this wonderful gospel “…is the power of God for the salvation of
everyone who believes.”
Now, beginning at Romans 1:18, Paul begins to explain how God
can be both “just and the One who justifies.” How can God make a
sinner like me righteous and still maintain His holy law? The apostle
begins by explaining man’s need for righteousness because of his
sin. He paints a vivid picture of a person in sin. This is the place to
begin our study of “the road to righteousness.”
What religions do you know that emphasize righteousness based
on a system of works? Is there joy in those religions?

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The Sin of Mankind

Man must recognize that sin keeps him from having a “right
standing with God.” In Romans 1:18-32, Paul explains how the
Gentiles plunged into darkness and how God’s wrath came upon
them. Sadly, we see four steps downward into sin and darkness.
First, the Gentiles knew God. God made Himself known to
man from the beginning, so that even those who have never heard the
Gospel have no excuse. Through His creation, God has made His
power and divine nature plain to man (Romans 1:19, 20), but they
have refused to see Him with their hearts.
Second, they did not glorify Him. Man refused to honor God,
thank God, or give Him glory for all that He had given him. Man
wanted to use God’s gifts, but was not willing to praise God for His
gifts. Man turned to philosophy, but his “wisdom” only revealed his
foolishness. Man’s thoughts became confused and his heart was filled
with darkness (Romans 1:21). Instead of worshiping God, he
worshiped creatures and man-made images.
Third, man exchanged God’s truth for satan’s lie. The lie is–
worship the creature, not the Creator; worship things, not God. Satan
tempted Isa to do this (Matthew 4:8-10). First, the Gentiles
“suppressed the truth,” and then, “They exchanged the truth of God
for a lie” (Romans 1:18, 25). Believing and obeying the truth sets us
free, but rejecting God’s truth enslaves us (John 8:32).
Fourth, they rejected all knowledge of God. Because of their
sin, “God gave them over…” (Romans 1:24, 26, 28). He let them reap
the consequences of sin. They received “…the due penalty for their
perversion” (Romans 1:27). Thus, we understand Romans 1:18 – “The
wrath of God is being revealed from heaven.” God showed man His
wrath, not by sending fire from heaven, but by allowing him to go on
in his sinful and lustful way.
Man began as the highest of God’s creatures, made in God’s
image. However, he ended lower than the beasts and insects, because
he worshiped them as gods. What is the verdict? The Spirit says,
“…men are without excuse” (Romans 1:20). In your culture, does
anyone worship things rather than God?

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The Jews under Sin

From Romans 2:1 to Romans 3:8, Paul begins to speak about his
own people, the Jews, and shows that they are equally condemned as
sinners before God. Earlier, he stated that the Gentiles are “without
excuse” and then Paul writes to the Jews:
“You, therefore, have no excuse, you who pass judgment on
someone else, for at whatever point you judge the other, you are
condemning yourself, because you who pass judgment do the same
things” (Romans 2:1).
This news probably came as a surprise to some of the privileged
Jews in Rome when they read the apostle’s letter. Most Jews thought
that surely the Lord would deal with them differently than the way He
would deal with the Gentiles. However, Paul says that the Jews are
under the same condemnation and wrath of God. This is because
God’s principles of judgment are always just. He is the righteous God,
as Paul is proving in this Letter to the Romans.
The Jews believed that because they had the Law, they were in
right standing with God. Therefore, they must be righteous.
However, Paul tells them that they, too, like the Gentiles, are sinners.
The Gentiles are sinners without the Law. The Jews are sinners with
the Law. From his background as a strict, legalistic member of the
Pharisees, Paul knew that the Jews were also sinners. Moreover, he
knew how they might react when confronted with the subject of sin.
Thus, in our study of the first chapter, Paul proved that the
Gentiles are without excuse for their sin. Then, in the second chapter,
he proved that the Jews likewise have no excuse for their sin. In this
second chapter, the apostle points out three divine principles of
judgment that prove the Jew is equally condemned with the Gentile.
[We shall study these principles on page 23.]
Later, as we study the third chapter, we will see that the Spirit
reveals (through the apostle Paul) that the whole world is under sin
and condemnation, desperately needing the grace of God through the
Savior, Isa Masih. How do you react when confronted about your
personal sin?

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Principles of God’s Judgment

In chapter two, Paul points out three divine principles of
judgment proving the Jew is equally condemned with the Gentile.
First- God’s judgment is based on truth. Paul says to the Jews,
“You do the same things the Gentiles do, so you are just as guilty.”
God’s judgment is not according to man’s ideas – it is “…based on
truth” (Romans 2:2). Often, we condemn others, yet we have the same
sin in our life. Jews might argue: “God will not judge us as He judges
the Gentiles.” However, they did not know God’s purpose. He was
kind to Israel and patiently waited for them to repent. “…God’s
kindness leads you toward repentance” (Romans 2:4). God’s judgment
will be by His absolute truth.
Second- Judgment is according to a person’s deeds. Our
deeds prove what is in our heart. They reveal the heart’s condition.
God can judge our works because He “…does not show favoritism”
(Romans 2:11). [Romans 2:13 does not tell us how to be saved, but
it tells how God judges us by the deeds performed during our life.]
Likewise, Romans 2:7-8 does not speak about our occasional actions,
but the total purpose and actions of our lives. God judges men
according to their knowledge of Him, not according to any higher
standard. God will judge the Jews more severely because they had the
Law but did not obey it. Sinners today must not only hear the Word
but also obey. We find life only in Isa Masih through repentance and
faith.
Third- Judgment is according to Isa’s Gospel. One day, God
will reveal all secrets. Isa is the Judge. The question is, “Do you believe
the Gospel?” The Jews did not see that their privileges required them
to live holy lives. They had outward ceremony, but not inward reality.
They boasted of their ritual of circumcision.
However, one who has faith, whose heart God has
circumcised, is a Jew. Isa’s Gospel demands an inward change: “You
must be born again” (John 3:7). Obeying laws will not help us pass the
test. Isa will judge our heart’s secrets (Romans 2:16). His Gospel has
God’s power for salvation – for all who believe. How do the people of
your culture view God’s judgment?

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Three Important Questions

In Romans 1-2, Paul wrote about sin and condemnation. He
concluded that all peoples, all Jews and Gentiles, are under the power
and penalty of sin. In Romans 3:1-20, Paul builds a bridge toward the
theme of justification by faith. As a lawyer, Paul had stated his case:
the Jews were guilty before God. Now, he refutes those Jews who
might debate with him. They raised three questions (Romans 3:1-8).
Let us examine Paul’s answers.
First- Is there an advantage in being a Jew? (Romans 3:1) The
answer is “Yes.” The Jews were “entrusted with the very words of
God” (Romans 3:2). God’s will is in His Word. If Israel had believed
and obeyed the Word, they would have received salvation through the
Masih. Then, through the Jews, God would have blessed the world.
Today, it is a privilege to have the Word of God. May we always be
thankful for this precious gift.
Second- Has Jewish unbelief canceled God’s Word and His
faithfulness? (Romans 3:3-4)
Paul says, “Not at all” (Romans 3:4). The unbelief of people
cannot cancel God’s faithfulness. God is always true, even if every
man is a liar. Paul quoted Psalm 51:4, when David openly admitted his
sin and God’s righteous judgment. As he admitted his sins, David
declared God’s righteousness and the truth of His Word.
Third- Then, why not sin and glorify God even more? How can
he judge us? (Romans 3:5-8)
Some Jews thought that, if it brings honor to God to judge my
sin, then I help Him by sinning. He should let me sin so that He might
be glorified even more! Paul refutes this argument by saying that such
thinking would mean God could never judge the world (Romans 3:6).
[Even Abraham recognized God as “the Judge of all the earth”
(Genesis 18:25).] Paul’s Jewish enemies had lied about him and said he
was teaching, “Let us do evil that good may result” (Romans 3:8, 6:1).
This statement is so contrary to Scripture that Paul said that the people
who say this deserve condemnation (Romans 3:8). Answer these three
questions from a believer’s viewpoint.

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“Charaz”
Measured by God’s righteousness, no one is sinless. No one seeks
after God. Thus, God seeks the lost sinner (Luke 19:10). In Romans
3:10-18, Paul studied the lost sinner, from “head to foot.” He quoted
several Old Testament passages: Psalm 5:9, 10:7, 14:1-3 (also 53:1-3),
36:1, 140:3, and Isaiah 59:7-8. Putting Old Testament passages
together was a common method of teaching in Paul’s day. They called
it “charaz,” which literally means, “Stringing pearls.”
Romans 3:13-14 emphasize words – the throat, tongue, lips,
and mouth. Notice the connection between words and heart in
Matthew 12:34: “For out of the overflow of the heart the mouth
speaks.” A sinner is spiritually dead (Ephesians 2:1-3). “Death” comes
out of his mouth. However, once saved, the believing mouth says, “Isa
is Lord” (Romans 10:9). “For by your words you will be acquitted, and
by your words you will be condemned” (Matthew 12:37).
Romans 3:15-16 picture the sinner’s feet. His words are often
deceitful and his paths are often destructive. The lost sinner brings
death, destruction, and misery wherever he goes. These tragedies may
not occur today, but they will come. The sinner is on the broad road
to destruction (Matthew 7:13-14). He needs to repent, trust Isa, and
walk on the narrow road to life. Believers walking on that road wear
shoes of the Gospel of peace (Ephesians 6:15) and bring the good
news of salvation (Isaiah 52:7 and Romans 10:15).
Romans 3:17 refers to the mind. Sinners do not know the “way
of peace” and they exchange God’s truth for satan’s lies (Romans
1:25). God’s way of peace is through Isa (Romans 5:1). Romans 3:18
tells about the sinner’s arrogance and pride – He has no fear of God,
causing ignorance. “The fear of the Lord is the beginning of
knowledge” (Proverbs 1:7).
There is only one conclusion: the whole world is under sin and
guilty before God. No one can obey God’s Law. God must offer
salvation by some other “method.” Now, Paul begins to explain that
“method.” After bad news, he begins “Good News.”
In your culture, are there teaching methods like “Charaz?”

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Discussion Guide
1. Discuss with your house church group the three “tenses” of
salvation. Are you familiar with the words “justification” and
“sanctification”? Try to find Bible verses using these words.
Discuss ways God is shaping and bringing you to maturity.
2. Do you agree with Bible scholars who call Romans 1:17 the “key
verse” of the letter? If not, what verse would you choose? Discuss
how Paul’s use of the words from the prophet Habakkuk helped
him as he began the Letter to the Romans.
3. Discuss the phrase “God gave them over” (Romans 1:24, 26, 28).
How would this apply in the life of a believer who has gotten into
sinful habits or a sinful lifestyle? Discuss areas of our lives where
we might “exchange the truth of God for a lie of satan.”
4. Discuss Romans 2:1 with your house church group. Discuss the
practical application: Think of some ways we believers criticize and
judge others, yet we are guilty of the same sins. Does this happen?
5. With your house church group, discuss the three divine principles
of judgment. Also, discuss this issue from Romans 2: How would
you explain to a non-believing friend that God chose Israel, but
that He does not show favoritism?
6. Discuss these comments with your group: God has saved me by
His grace and loves me unconditionally. Thus, it is acceptable if I
sin occasionally. Actually, my sin magnifies His righteousness, and
that is what I want everyone to see. He is full of grace.
7. Discuss Romans 3:10-18 with your group. Ask each group
member who is willing to summarize his conclusions as to the
meaning of this passage. Discuss other Bible verses that relate our
heart and mouth, or our character and the words we speak. Finally,
discuss the deeper spiritual meaning of Ephesians 2:1-3.

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GOD’S PROVISION OF
RIGHTOUSNESS

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Meditate upon and apply these Scriptures to your life this week:

1. Romans 4:3 – “What does the Scripture say? ‘Abraham believed

God, and it was credited to him as righteousness.’”
2. Romans 5:8 – “But God demonstrates His own love for us in this:
While we were still sinners, the Masih died for us.”

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God’s Wonderful Plan

Now we have come to the heart of the Letter, where Paul answers
the question: According to the gospel, how can a holy God justify
ungodly sinners? How can a person get into right relationship with
God? Paul wrote, “But now a righteousness from God, apart from
law, has been made known, to which the Law and the Prophets
testify” (Romans 3:21).
The Bible is the history of God’s plan of salvation. He sent
the prophets and finally His Son to explain the plan. He provided the
sacrifice. He initiates the carrying out of the plan. His plan of salvation
is for all peoples on the same terms. It is for all who believe that Isa,
the Son of God, died for them. They simply must repent and trust Isa
as personal Savior and Lord.
In this passage (Romans 3:21-31), we begin to understand the
Lord’s heart. God revealed His righteousness apart from the Law.
This means that the righteous God can save unrighteous sinners, but
not by requiring them to keep the law. God is holy and He cannot
overlook sin. He must punish it and the punishment for sin is death.
Yet God loves the sinner and wants to save him. This is the dilemma.
God’s righteousness demands the sinner’s death, but His love desires
the sinner’s eternal life and joy. The gospel reveals God’s plan – how
He can save sinners without compromising His righteousness.
Paul wrote that the Law and the Prophets testify to this
wonderful plan. The Bible speaks often of the sacrificial system that
required the shedding of blood to cover sin. Moreover, prophets such
as Isaiah and Daniel predicted God’s plan of righteousness (Isaiah
51:5–8, 56:1 and Daniel 9:24).
People have always wanted righteousness by obeying the Law, but
Paul has already proved that the Law condemns. It cannot give us
righteousness. However, from ancient times, the prophets had begun
to see that righteousness was by faith, through God’s grace. Now Paul
tells his Roman hearers how that “faith righteousness” is available.
They can know and follow God’s wonderful plan.
Do you understand God’s “dilemma” mentioned above?

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God’s Righteousness – Available through Isa

In Romans 3:24-25, Paul uses three important terms, which we
shall define. Let us look carefully at these three words and their
definitions.
Justification: God’s righteousness transferred (or, credited) to
my account. God declares us righteous (justifies us in His eyes)
through the merits of Isa Masih. Thus, we are secure in our position in
Isa before the throne of God.
Redemption: Deliverance from sin and its penalty by paying a
price. The price was Isa’s blood on the cross.
Propitiation: Isa’s sacrifice satisfied God’s holy law. Thus,
God can forgive sinners and remain just. His justice has been
satisfied. God now looks with kindness and grace upon us. [Some
Bibles may use the word “atonement” or “reconciliation.” Atonement
is the act by which God restores a relationship of harmony between
Himself and man. “Atone” means “to cover.” Thus, God “covers” our
sins through the sacrificial death of His Son on the cross.]
“Justified freely by His grace” (Romans 3:24) – What a statement!
We are justified freely – not by good works or by keeping the Law –
but by His grace alone. God declares us righteous in His eyes.
Therefore, how can God be both “just and the One who justifies?”
(Romans 3:26) The answer is Isa’s sacrifice on the cross. When Isa
died, “He …bore our sins in His body…” (1 Peter 2:24). He paid the
price God’s law demanded. Moreover, He arose and lives. He is fully
able to save all who believe in Him.
Before the full revelation of the Gospel, God appeared to be
lenient (Romans 3:25). Did He leave man’s sin unpunished? How did
God forgive man before the cross? He required a blood sacrifice
(Hebrews 9:22). However, He knew that at the cross, He would reveal
His wrath and punish sin for all time. Moreover, through Isa’s death,
He would provide redemption for sins that had merely been “covered”
by the blood of animals (Hebrews 9-10). Salvation has always been
through faith in God, by His amazing grace.
Can you explain propitiation (or, “atonement”) to a friend?

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Justified by Faith
What is the conclusion of the whole matter? The Jew has nothing
to boast of, because all sinners are justified by faith and not by the
works of the Law. If justification is by the Law, then God is a God of
the Jews only, because only Israel had the Law. However, God is also
the God of the Gentiles. Therefore, God saves Jews and Gentiles the
same way — by faith. Moreover, this simple means of salvation does
not cancel the Law. The Law demanded death for sin, and Isa Masih
died for our sins. Thus, the Gospel establishes God’s Law and reveals
our need of grace.
There are actually six aspects of justification in the New
Testament, but these are not contradictory. They are as follows:

„ We are justified by grace (Romans 3:24) — that means

we do not deserve it.
„ We are justified through faith (Romans 5:1) — that
means that we receive it through faith in the Lord Isa.
„ We are justified by His blood (Romans 5:9) - this
refers to the price the Savior paid - His own blood.
„ We are justified by God’s power (Romans 4:24, 25) –
this same power raised Isa from the dead.
„ We are justified by God (Romans 8:33) — He is the
One who declares us to be righteous in His sight.
„ We are justified by works (James 2:24) — this does
not mean that good works save us, but that they are
the evidence that we have been justified.
Romans 3:24 says that we are justified “…through the
redemption that came by the Masih Isa.” As stated above (page
30), redemption means buying back by payment of a ransom price.
Isa bought us back from the slave market of sin. He paid the ransom
price of His precious blood to satisfy the claims of a holy and
righteous God. Isa did not pay the ransom to anyone. Rather, it was
the payment that provided the righteous basis by which God could
save the ungodly sinner.
Read and meditate on the above six Scripture verses listed.

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The Example of Abraham

Chapter 4 shows the gospel agrees with the Old Testament. This
was important to the Jews. Therefore, Paul showed the harmony
between the gospel and Old Testament teachings. Justification has
always been by faith. Paul gave the example of Abraham to show how
God makes a person righteous (justifies).
The Jews, who honored Abraham as their “father,” thought that
God justified a person through keeping the Law. However, God
justified Abraham even before He gave the law. Paul made three
contrasts in Romans 4 as he gave the example of Abraham.
First, Romans 4:1-8 shows that we are justified by faith, not by
works. The Bible says, “Abram believed the LORD, and He credited
it to him as righteousness” (Genesis 15:6). God promised Abraham he
would have many descendants. Abraham believed in the Lord, and
God “credited” righteousness into his account. Thus, Abraham was
justified by faith only, not by any good deeds.
Second, Romans 4:9-16 proves that we are justified by grace,
not by law. Jews asked, “If salvation is by faith, then what about the
Law? What about God’s covenant with Abraham?” Paul answered this
way: Abraham’s justification happened before his circumcision.
Circumcision was an outward sign of a spiritual relationship, like
baptism. Abraham was uncircumcised when he was justified. No
ritual or ceremony can produce spiritual changes.
Third, God justifies by His resurrection power, not by our
strength (Romans 4:17-25). God is “the God who gives life to the
dead.” How could two people, one 90 and the other 100, hope to have
a son? However, when the flesh [the sinful nature] is dead, then the
power of the Spirit can work. If we feel that we can obey God in our
own strength, we will never be justified.
However, when we admit we are “dead,” and stop using our own
strength, then God works through us. He gives us new life and a right
standing before Him. Abraham’s simple faith in God’s Word justified
him, and that is how sinners are justified today.
How is David’s justification different from Abraham’s?

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The Blessings of Justification

Justification is God’s declaration that the believing sinner is
righteous. God’s righteousness is “put into his account.” Justification
means he has right standing before God. Let us now consider five
blessings of justification (Romans 5:1-11).
First, “…we have peace with God” (Romans 5:1). Now, in Isa,
we have true peace. Isa, by His shed blood, has settled our problem
with sin. God is our Father, not our Judge.
Second, “…we have gained access by faith…” (Romans 5:2).
Before salvation, we were condemned “in Adam.” Now we stand “in
Isa.” We have right standing with God and can enter His presence
(Hebrews 10:19-22). “Access” means “approach,” as if we “approach”
a king’s throne room. Believers have access to stand before God.
Though we were once rebels, we do not have to face His judgment.
Instead, we approach Him in simple faith.
Third, “…we rejoice in the hope of the glory of God” (Romans
5:2). Ephesians 2:12 reminds us that once we were sinners “without
hope.” We cannot boast in our good works (Ephesians 2:8-9), but we
can boast in the wonderful salvation God has given us in Isa Masih.
“We have this hope as an anchor for the soul, firm and secure”
(Hebrews 6:19).
Fourth, we have the confidence that our sufferings and
perseverance will produce the character of Isa in our lives (Romans
5:3-4). We do not rejoice because of our sufferings, but we can rejoice
in them, knowing that our future is secure in Him.
Fifth, “…God has poured out His love into our hearts…”
(Romans 5:5). The Spirit in us pours out God’s love to us. “But God
demonstrates His own love for us in this: While we were still sinners,
the Masih died for us” (Romans 5:8). If God did that for us while we
were His enemies, how much more will He do for us now? God
reconciled us to Himself by Isa’s death; Isa’s life saved us, and “We
have now received reconciliation” (Romans 5:10-11). We thus receive
God’s love, for He is love (1 John 4:8).
Meditate upon these blessings and share a word about them with
a friend this week.

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Adam and Isa Masih

All men are sinners. In Romans 5:12-21, Paul wrote that One
Man’s (Isa’s) death could give an ungodly sinner a right standing
before God. Note the repetition of the word “one” (at least 10 times).
When God looks at humankind, He sees two men - Adam and Isa.
Every human is either “in Adam” (lost), or “in Isa” (saved). Romans
5:14 states that Adam “was a pattern of the One to come” – the
Masih. He is the “First Adam” and Isa is the “Last Adam.”
Paul is teaching the unity of mankind in Adam (Acts 17:26). “All
sinned” (Romans 5:12) means that all of us sinned in Adam when he
sinned. We identified with him as the “head” of the human race.
Adam’s sin is our sin. His death is our death. His disobedience
brought sin, condemnation, and death upon humanity. In contrast, the
obedience of the Last Adam brought righteousness, salvation, and life
to all who believe. Through the first Adam, death and sin reign in this
world. Through the Last Adam, grace reigns and believers can “reign
in life” (Romans 5:17).
Therefore, since we are born “in Adam,” we inherit his sin,
condemnation, and death. However, by His grace, God gave a “Last
Adam” who has undone, by His life and death, all that Adam did in his
sin. Paul summarized this in Romans 5:21. He wrote that sin no longer
reigns, but grace reigns through righteousness. Life reigns, not death.
Believers who have received God’s grace will “reign in life through the
One Man, Isa Masih” (Romans 5:17).
The important question is, am I “in Adam” or “in the Masih”? If
I am “in Adam,” then sin and death reign in my life and I am under
condemnation. If I am “in the Masih,” then God’s grace reigns and I
can reign in life through Isa. Thus, if I am “in the Masih,” I am no
longer a slave to sin. In Romans 5:6–11, Paul teaches substitution –
Isa died for us on the cross. However, in Romans 5:12–21, he teaches
identification – we believers are in Isa and can live in victory over
sin.
Can you find another New Testament passage where Paul
mentioned Adam (or, the “first man”) and the “last Adam”?

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Our New Position

Isa Masih frees us from sin’s penalty [Romans 5] and from sin’s
power (chapters 6-8). God justifies those who, by faith, accept Isa
Masih. New birth is essential, but God does not want us to be spiritual
babies. While justification [at the time of new birth] is the beginning,
sanctification is the continuing. It is the growth of the believer.
“Sanctification” is the theme of chapters 6-8, so let us define the word.
It simply means, “Set apart.” Just as Isa set Himself apart to serve
God, He also “sanctifies” us (sets us apart).
Key words of Romans 6 are know, consider, and yield. We
know our spiritual position and privileges in Isa as we spend time with
Him and His Word. We consider [take into account] what God says
about us in the Bible is true. We yield [“offer” ourselves] to God - not
sometimes, but always (Romans 6:6, 11, 13).
We are dead to sin - it no longer rules over us (Romans 6:12).
However, how can we get victory over the sin nature? Chapter 6
answers this question: we get victory over the sin nature when we
know that we were crucified with Isa. Victory over the sin nature is by
obeying God’s commands to know, consider, and yield.
Isa not only died for us, we died with Him. At that moment, the
Spirit baptized us into His body (1 Corinthians 12:13), we were buried
with Him and raised to new life. When God raised Isa, He also raised
us to new life with Him. This is our new position in Isa. He not
only died for our sins, but He also died to sin (Romans 6:10). That is,
Isa broke sin’s power and crucified the sin nature (Romans 6:6). The
sin nature remains, but the cross has robbed it of its power. We have
died to the old nature.
Often we receive Isa but we do not find true freedom. We do not
claim the promises - we are dead to sin, the old self is dead, and we are
free from sin (Romans 6:2, 6, 7). The sin nature can no longer rule
over me when I know the truth, consider it true, and yield to God.
The answer to the sin problem is not determination or human effort,
but simply knowing that the sin nature was crucified on the cross
and I am raised to new life with Isa.
Do you understand your new position in Isa?

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Discussion Guide
1. Discuss these two issues: First, God is holy and cannot overlook
man’s sin. Second, God is love and does not want the ungodly
sinner to die. Should your church emphasize more strongly one of
these issues? Which is the more important of the two issues?
2. Discuss the meanings of “propitiation,” “atonement,” and
“reconciliation.” What are the best words to use in your culture
when you explain Isa’s sacrificial death on the cross? Discuss the
relationship between God’s forgiveness and His justice.
3. In your house church group, discuss [one-by-one] the six aspects
of our justification. Also, discuss how your culture might
understand “redeeming a person from slavery.”
4. Discuss with your group the three contrasts given in “The
Example of Abraham” (page 32). Discuss the significant difference
between the justification of Abraham and David.
5. Discuss with your group the five blessings of justification on page
33 (Romans 5:1-11). Also, discuss Romans 5:3-5. How can a
believer grow in godly character through suffering?
6. Discuss with your group some contrasts between Adam and Isa
Masih, such as: Death/life, condemnation/justification,
disobedience/obedience, sin/righteousness, etc. Also, discuss Isa’s
“substitution” for us, and our “identification” in/with Him (see
Romans 5:6-11 and Romans 5:12-21).
7. Discuss with your group the three key words of Romans 6: Know,
consider, and yield. Discuss the fact that we were crucified with
Isa, buried, and raised to new life with Him. Would a deeper
understanding of Romans 6 help us in our battle against sin and
the sin nature?

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SET FREE TO SERVE

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Meditate upon and apply these Scriptures to your life this week:

1. Romans 6:6 – “For we know that our old self was crucified with
Him so that the body of sin might be done away with, that we
should no longer be slaves to sin”
2. Romans 8:1 – “Therefore, there is now no condemnation for
those who are in the Masih Isa…”

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Our Relationship to the Law

Romans 7 says, we cannot do anything good! Many believers live
under the Law. They have rules that they try to obey in the energy of
the sin nature. The sin nature enjoys trying to obey laws. It may appear
spiritual, but it is at war with God. Romans 7 is about the sin nature
that, through the law, tries to do “good.” God’s law is holy, but it
cannot control the sin nature of man.
We are dead to the Law as well as dead to sin (Romans 7:4). To
be “under law” means we try to find holiness in our own strength,
working hard to please God. We do not know our new position in Isa
and our new power in the Spirit (Romans 8:3-4). Paul gave three
examples about the Law and the believer.
First – two husbands: the Law and Isa (Romans 7:1-6). When
a woman marries, she is bound to that man. If he dies, she can
remarry. Before we met Isa, the Law bound and condemned us. The
Law did not “die” when we were saved, but we died in Isa, our new
husband. The “old husband” has no control over us.
Second – two discoveries: First, “…the Law is spiritual.”
Second, “…I am unspiritual, sold as a slave to sin” (Romans 7:14).
God’s law is holy, but our old nature is sinful. The Law cannot change
it or control it.
Third – two principles: The law of sin and death and the law of
the Spirit of life (Romans 8:2). Paul wrote about the two natures in the
believer. At the time of salvation, God does not change, clean up, or
reform the old, sin nature. The old nature is still wicked and opposed
to God. However, at salvation, God gives us a new nature and
crucifies the old one.
Now, we are set free to serve (Romans 7:6) because we can
lovingly obey the Spirit. He fulfills the righteousness of the Law
(Romans 8:4). We grow spiritually by yielding to the indwelling Spirit
who fulfills God’s demands for holiness. We accept the truth of
Romans 7 that we are dead to the Law. Then we let the Spirit work
out God’s will in our lives. May we consider ourselves dead to the
Law as well as dead to sin.
Read again Paul’s three examples until they are clear to you.

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Our New Freedom in the Spirit

In Romans 8, Paul states the new freedom we have because of
our union with Isa – freedom from judgment, defeat, discouragement,
and fear. He emphasizes the Holy Spirit and answers questions about
the Law and the sin nature. Moreover, we see that, through the
indwelling Spirit, we overcome the sin nature and live fruitfully. Let us
consider two great statements.
First – “…there is now no condemnation for those who are in
the Masih Isa…” (Romans 8:1) How can God accept what we do
when “nothing good” (Romans 7:18) lives in us? It seems He would
condemn every thought and deed. However, there is “no
condemnation” since the indwelling Holy Spirit fulfills the
righteousness of the Law in us and this pleases God.
The Law cannot condemn us because we are dead to the Law.
God does not condemn us. His Spirit enables us to meet His holy
demands. What a blessing to realize that we are not under the Law.
God does not expect us to do “good works” in our own strength.
Second – “…we have an obligation – but it is not to the sinful
nature…” (Romans 8:12) We can lean toward the things of the sin
nature and be carnal believers. Or, we can lean toward the things of
the Spirit, and be spiritual. The carnal mind cannot please God. Only
Isa’s Spirit working in and through us pleases God.
Our obligation is to the Holy Spirit. The Spirit convicted us
and showed us our need of a Savior. He gave us saving faith and put
His new nature within us. He witnesses within that we are God’s
children. We owe Him a great debt. Isa loved us so much that He died
for us. The Spirit loves us so much that He lives in us. He grieves over
our sin (Ephesians 4:30). Yet He loves us and remains in us forever
(Hebrews 13:5).
Our “freedom” does not mean freedom to do as we please.
Rather, this freedom in the Spirit is freedom from the law and the sin
nature so that we please God and become what He wants us to
become. What is that? God desires that we “…be conformed to the
likeness of His Son” (Romans 8:29). That pleases God!
How does your culture define the word “freedom”?

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Israel’s Past, Present, and Future

Romans 9-11 tells about Israel’s past, present, and future history.
Paul explained how God set aside the Jews to save the Gentiles, and
how He will restore the Jews in the future. Explaining Israel’s place
in God’s plan, he first listed eight blessings given to Israel because of
her election as God’s people (Romans 9:4-5). Israel had privileges that
no other nation had.
The Jews tried to attain righteousness by works, while the
Gentiles received righteousness by faith. Israel stumbled over Isa
(Isaiah 8:14 and Matthew 21:42) because they wanted a Masih who
would lead them to freedom and glory. They could not believe in a
crucified Masih. Israel did not realize that Isa was the One for whom
the Law had prepared the way. Thus, they rejected the Masih, held on
to the Law, and did not follow God.
In Romans 10, Paul wrote that the Word of salvation is near Israel
(Romans 10:8). God will save them when they openly confess, “Isa is
Lord” and believe in their hearts that God raised Him from the dead.
However, many Jews would not openly confess Him (John 12:42).
When we receive Isa Masih by faith and openly confess Him, we prove
our faith and God justifies us.
Romans 11:1 asks, “Did God reject His people?” Paul quickly
answers “No.” If the fall of the Jews brought blessing to the world,
then how great will be the blessing when God restores Israel. One day,
Israel will turn to God again (Romans 11:23). [Jeremiah 23:3–8 is one
of many prophecies about Israel’s restoration.] Zechariah prophesied
of Israel’s restoration to God, saying, “And I will pour out on the
house of David and the inhabitants of Jerusalem a spirit of grace and
supplication. They will look on Me, the One they have pierced…”
(Zechariah 12:10).
The apostle Paul yearned for the salvation of his fellow Jews
(Romans 9:1-3). He knew that God loved the Jews and would not
break His promises with their fathers (Romans 11:29). Today, most
Jews still do not believe in Isa, but one day a remnant will come to
Him and receive His mercy and grace (Romans 11:31).
Compare Exodus 32:31-32 with Romans 9:1-3.

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Consecration to God
Romans 12-16 is the final part of the Letter. In this final section,
Paul tells us to practice what we have learned. He had written much
about the righteousness God had given believers. Now, he urges us to
“practice” righteousness as we serve the Lord.
Service begins with dedication to the Lord from a motive of love.
Paul wrote, “I urge you,” (Romans 12:1) because of what Isa has done
for you. We present our body, mind, and will to God. Daily we yield
our body, we have our mind renewed by the Word, and we surrender
our will through prayer and obedience. Believers either conform to the
world, or they are “transformed” – they become more like Isa
(Romans 12:2). (The Greek word “transform” is the same as for
“transfigure” in Matthew 17:2.) Some obey God because they fear His
discipline, but true devotion loves Isa and knows that His will is
perfect. As priests, we offer “spiritual sacrifices” to God (1 Peter 2:5).
The sacrifice He wants daily is our body, mind, and will presented to
Him.
In Romans 12:3-13, Paul discussed spiritual gifts. He listed eight
gifts: Prophecy, serving, teaching, encouraging, giving, leadership,
mercy, and hospitality. We use our gifts for God’s glory as we serve
Him. Gifts differ, but they all come from God. We use them according
to “…the measure of faith God has given…” and “…according to the
grace given us” (Romans 12:3, 6).
Romans 12:9-13 tells us how to act in God’s family. Our love
must be sincere as we hate the evil and cling to the good. Paul then
reminds us that we will have spiritual battles (Romans 12:14-21). He
teaches us how to handle those who oppose the Lord. We must bless
– not curse – those who persecute us (Romans 12:14).
Lastly, believers must “…Be careful to do what is right in the eyes
of everybody” (Romans 12:17). We must be aware that others are
watching us, and “If it is possible…live at peace with everyone”
(Romans 12:18). We never take revenge, but wait for God (Romans
12:19). He will justly repay in His perfect time.
How does your culture look upon “revenge”? Is it acceptable in
certain circumstances?

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Subject to Authority
Believers “are not of the world” (John 17:14), but they have
responsibilities to their state. Believers ought to be good citizens. They
should use their privileges as citizens to try to elect the best leaders,
enact the best laws, and justly enforce them. We think of godly leaders
like Joseph, Daniel, and Esther, who served in pagan governments,
and we see how God can work through believers.
“Governing authorities” (Romans 13:1) are the government
rulers, though probably not believers. These officials are ministers of
God. In Rome, the Gospel had reached government officials, such as
Erastus, “…the city’s director of public works…” (Romans 16:23) and
Nero’s “household” (Philippians 4:22).
Though we may not respect a person, we must respect his God-
ordained office. “For rulers hold no terror for those who do right, but
for those who do wrong” (Romans 13:3). Thus, believers living godly
lives need not fear. However, when the government opposes the Lord,
we follow the principle of Acts 5:29. Remember that the church does
not punish (“bear the sword”) – the government does that (Romans
13:4).
In Romans 13:6-7, Paul teaches us to pay taxes and “revenue”
(possibly, “customs”). He commands believers to respect and honor
all government officials. Though we live under the states’ laws, we also
live under a higher law – the law of love. Love fulfills the law
(Romans 13:10). Love enables us to obey what the law demands. For
example, a man works because he loves his family, not because the law
tells him to support them. Where love exists, there will be no murder,
dishonesty, stealing, or selfishness.
Then, Paul writes that, “…our salvation is nearer now than when
we first believed” (Romans 13:11). Isa Masih’s coming for the church
is nearer today than ever before. We should be awake and alert when
Isa returns, not living in sin. Therefore, Paul commands the believers,
“…clothe yourselves with the Lord Isa...” (Romans 13:14). Since Isa is
coming again soon, it is our responsibility to live sober, spiritual, and
clean lives.
Make a list of your government officials and pray for them.

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Consideration for the Weak

Paul wrote about “differences” in Romans 14:1-15:7. What must
believers do when they disagree? Paul knew that in each church there
would be both immature and mature believers (Romans 14:1 and
15:1). They will not always agree on how to live. He wrote that a life of
strict legalism did not show strong faith (Colossians 2:16). Today, we
often differ on things such as worldly amusements and clothing. Paul
gave us six principles to apply to solve the differences. We will state
each principle as a question.
Question #1 (Romans 14:5): “Am I fully convinced in my own
mind?” We pray, study the Word, and then act from our convictions,
not emotions. Mature believers know why they act as they do, and
these convictions control their lives. Strong believers do not despise
weak ones, nor should weak believers judge their brothers for their
freedom. “God has accepted” us (Romans 14:3) and we must accept
each other. Question #2 (Romans 14:6-9): “Am I doing this unto the
Lord?” Not everything we do is “unto the Lord.” Actually, we do
many things for selfish reasons.
Question #3 (Romans 14:10-12): “Is it right to judge my
brother?” We do not give account for our brother, so we have no right
to judge him. We simply must be ready to give account for ourselves.
Question #4 (Romans 14:13-21): “Am I causing others to stumble?”
Because of my “freedom,” do I make others stumble? Some brothers
consider certain practices sinful. Thus, if we knowingly do things that
make them stumble, we are not living by the law of love. Question #5
(Romans 14:22-23): “Am I doing this by faith?” If God’s Word cannot
back up what I do, then it is sin. If it “does not come from faith,” it is
sin.
Question #6 (Romans 15:1-7): “Am I pleasing myself or pleasing
others?” Even Isa did not please Himself. Therefore, “Each of us
should please his neighbor for his good, to build him up” (Romans
15:2). We may not always agree, but if we love each other, we will
“Accept one another, then, just as the Masih accepted you, in order to
bring praise to God” (Romans 15:7).
Do your convictions come from the Word or from traditions?

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Going on to Rome
Paul had previously been hindered from going to Rome (Romans
15:22). Satan did not hinder him. However, the many demands on his
time and ministry had stopped him from going. Now he was finally
able to go. The fact that Paul wanted to preach in Rome shows that no
other apostle had been there. He wanted to go “…where the Masih
was not known…” (Romans 15:20).
Reading Romans 16, we see that Paul loved people. Probably he
had led many of these to know the Lord. Since he had never visited
Rome, he probably had met these saints in other cities. Like Isa, he
personally knew and cared for each of the sheep.
The believers in Rome probably did not meet in only one large
assembly. Rather, they had various household groups [Romans 16:5].
Rome was a very large city, and it is possible that some of the churches
were composed mainly of Jewish believers. There could have been
many house churches in Rome.
Paul especially greeted Priscilla and Aquila, two of his dear friends
(Romans 16:3-4). [Also, read Acts 18, 1 Corinthians 16:19 and 2
Timothy 4:19.] The Bible does not tell us how they “risked their lives”
for Paul (Romans 16:4). Priscilla and Aquila had earlier left Rome
because of persecution and had met Paul in Corinth. Now, they were
back home in Rome “planting” a church.
Paul’s last warning seems strange after the warm greetings.
However, he knew the dangers ahead and wanted to warn the saints.
Certainly, believers must love and forgive one another. Nevertheless,
we must apply scriptural discipline concerning sins against the church
body. Paul told the believers to “…Keep away from…those who
cause divisions” (Romans 16:17). The church must watch out for
those who cause trouble and division.
Thus, Paul completed the Letter to the Romans. If we understand
it and apply it, the final words will certainly be true: “To the only wise
God be glory forever through Isa Masih! Amen.” (Romans 16:27)
Can you find some of the people listed in Romans 16 in other
New Testament passages?

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Discussion Guide
1. Discuss the major differences between Romans 6 and Romans 7.
Discuss with your group which of the following is more difficult
for a believer: to consider myself dead to sin or dead to the Law?
Why do you think it is more difficult?
2. Discuss these questions with your group: Why do many believers
feel a lot of condemnation? What is the solution? Also, discuss this
statement – Some Bible teachers say that the freedom to do as you
please is really slavery. What do you think?
3. With your group, find and list the eight blessings that Paul
mentioned God gave to Israel (Romans 9:1-3). Today, as God’s
elect, discuss the similar blessings that we believers enjoy (refer to
Luke 22:20, John 4:23-26, 2 Corinthians 3:3, Galatians 3:7,
Ephesians 1:5-7, and Hebrews 7:22, 9:15, and 10:16).
4. Discuss these questions with your group: Practically, how does
God renew our minds and transform us (Romans 12:1-2)? In
Romans 12:1-21, where do you find similarities with Isa’s teachings
recorded in Matthew 5:3-10?
5. Discuss with your house church group a situation in your culture
where you might follow the principle of Acts 5:29. Read Paul’s
command in 1 Timothy 2:1-4. Then, discuss how the church can
begin a strategy of prayer for your area, which includes praying for
the government officials.
6. Discuss the six principles given in Romans 14:1-15:7. With these in
mind, discuss this question: Does our church lean toward
“legalism” or “grace” concerning the lifestyles of our members?
Must we always think and behave the same?
7. Discuss this final question with your group: Is our church making
a sincere attempt to share the Good News in areas where people
do not know the Name of Isa? If not, how can we begin? Do we
have a strategy of prayer for those areas?

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For Further Study and Training in Righteousness

Doctrine Bible
2. Pastoral Letters
1. Servant Leadership
(1 - 2 Timothy, Titus)
3. Personal Evangelism I
4. Romans
(The Camel Method)
5. Personal Evangelism II
6. Theology of Genesis
(Chronological Storying)
7. Believer’s Lifestyle 8. 1 Corinthians
9. Spiritual Warfare 10. Ephesians
11. Church Planting 12. The Gospel of John
13. Doctrine of the
14. Acts 1 – 12
Holy Spirit
16. Acts 13 – 28
15. Bible Interpretation
(The Ministry of Paul)
17. Doctrine of Salvation 18. Exodus
20. The Journeys of Jesus
19. The Godhead
(Synoptic Gospels)
21. Spiritual Disciplines 22. Galatians
23. Old Testament Survey 24. Hebrews
25. Stewardship 26. Psalms
27. Personal Evangelism III

A Program of: CASALT

Servant and Leadership Training
July 2005

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