Highlighting the Bible part VIII: Romans

A.Hanson, NYC 2014

Paul's letter to the Romans is one of the most beloved Pauline epistles (or letters).  Paul had been a missionary for a number of years at the time of its writing.  Romans has a well developed theology (hence its favored status among Lutherans and other Protestants) and is distinct in that it is the only letter that was not written to a congregation founded by Paul or a person whom he converted.

All of Paul's letters begin with a salutation.  The letter to the Romans is written to "all God's beloved in Rome, who are called to be saints."

The following passages from Paul's letter to the Romans do not appear in any lectionary passage:

Romans 1:8-32 (Prayer of Thanksgiving; The Power of the Gospel; the Guilt of Humankind

Romans 2 (The righteous judgment of God; The Jews and the law)

Romans 3:1-18 (continuing the argument that law does not save; None is righteous)

Romans 4:1-12 (The Example of Abraham)

Romans 7:1-13 (An Analogy from Marriage; The Law and Sin)

Romans 9:6-33 (commentary on God's election of Israel; God's wrath and mercy; Israel's unbelief)

Romans 10:1-4 (commentary on Paul's desire that all be saved)

Romans 11:3-28 (Israel's rejection is not final; The salvation of the Gentiles; All Israel will be saved)

Romans 11:33-36 (a hymn of praise to God)

Romans 13:1-7 (Being subject to authorities)

Romans 14:13-23 (Do not make another stumble)

Romans 15:1-3 (Please others, not yourself)

Romans 15:14-33 (Paul's reason for writing so boldly; Paul's plan to visit Rome)

Romans 16:1-23 (Personal greetings; final instructions