Epistle to the Romans
Chapter One
1.
Explain the three phrases with which Paul describes his vocation (v. 1)
  a.
A servant of Christ Jesus - This indicates that he is one who serves God.  He is obedient to God’s word; he does what ever task God tells him to do.
  
  b.
Called to be an apostle – He is a missionary for Jesus Christ.   In his case he establishes churches anywhere that Christianity is not present.
  
  c.
Chosen to preach the Good News – He was called to tell the Gospel of Jesus Christ to all mankind so that they may know that there is salvation from sin and death.
    
2.
Identify some OT passage that supports verse 2.
 
Isaiah 11:1-9
    
3.
How is Jesus descended from David?
 
David was the father of Solomon, Solomon the father of Rehoboam, Rhobam the father of Abijah, Abijah the father of Asa, Asa the father of Jehoshaphat, Jehoshaphat the father of Joram,
Joram the father of Azariah, Azariah the father of Jotham, Jotham the father of Ahaz, Ahaz the father of Hezekiah, Hezekiah the father of Manasseh, Manasseh the father of Amon, Amon the father of Josiah, Josiah the father of Jechoniah, Jechoniah the father of Shealtiel, Shealtiel the father of Zerubbabel, Zerubbabel the father of Abiud, Abiud the father of Eliakim, Eliakim the father of Azor, Azor the father of Zadok, Zadok the father of Achim, Achim the father of Eliud, Eliud the father of Eleazar, Eleazar the father of Matthan, Matthan the father of Jacob, Jacob the father of Joseph, Joseph the husband of Mary; of her was born Jesus who is called the Christ.
4.
Is an “adoptionist Christology” presented by verse 4? Explain the term “designated” (RSV) or “appointed” (Barrett), horisthenos.
 
The adoptionist Christology is in Paul’s statement … it is about Jesus Christ our Lord who, in the order of the spirit, the spirit of holiness that was in him, was proclaimed Son of God in all his power through his resurrection from the dead.  J.B. Barrett explains that Paul saw Jesus as the Son of Man in that he was born of the linage of David.  The second half of Paul’s statement explains that Jesus was proclaimed Son of God after the resurrection and the fulfillment of His role of Messiah.  It was at this time that Jesus receives His full Godly powers and becomes totally divine.  Barrett explains that this has an adoptionist tinge, but not technically so.
5. How does Paul describe his readers?
  They are among the Pagan Nations    
  They belong to Jesus by His calling.    
  God’s beloved in Rome.    
  Called to be saints.    
6.
Why did Paul write this letter?  What personal desires and intentions does he express?
 
In 1:8-15 Paul states that he wants to share the Good News with the educated Greeks in Rome just as he has with the barbarians elsewhere in the empire.  He also states that he wishes to visit them and to work with them as he has in other churches.  In 15:22-29 Paul states he has a mission to carry a gift to Jerusalem and then come to see them on his way to Spain after a brief rest in Rome.  He also asked that they pray he escape the unbelievers in Judaea.
7.
What obligation does Paul feel?  Who else is so obligated?
 
He feels obligated to report to the Greeks, Barbarians, Jews and the people in Rome (1:15-16).  Paul literally includes everyone, the uneducated as well as the educated.  He makes reference to the people in the outskirts of the empire as well as the people in most modern educated cities.  However, he does state that the Good News should be carried to the Jew first then to the Gentiles.  This is the protocol of God.  Paul practiced this where ever he went.  Paul affirms the Great Commission in this statement.  He goes on to say we all have an obligation to tell the Good News of Jesus Christ.
8.
Support the statement that 1:16-17 presents the theme of the Epistle by listing and considering several references to the following in chapters 1-4.
  a.
The righteousness of God.  The act of God’s pardon of humanity although we are all guilty of failing to keep the law. (Ref: 1: 16-17, 3:21-26)
  b.
Faith.   The act of man in response to Christ death believing that His act was sufficient to atone for our sin. (ref: 3:27-31, 4:1-8)
9.
Upon whom does God’s wrath rest?
 
God’s wrath rests on the men who have hidden the truth through their own wickedness 1:18.
10.
Why is the sinner without excuse?  What about the man or woman in places where the gospel has never been preached?
 
The sinner in this case is without excuse because they knew God and refused to honor Him or thank Him.  It is plain that God is the creator and yet we traded Him for the things of creation such as other men, animals, and quadrupeds.

The men and women who have not heard the gospel are not lost if they had a heart for God even if they did not know His name.  This is explained by Paul in Romans 2:12-24.
11.
Why did God give them up?
 
God gave them up because they became stupid and dark minded.  They called themselves philosophers and denied the truth for lies.  Finally, they worshiped the creature and creation instead of the Creator.
12.
How much did these people know about God?
 
In the end they knew nothing of God but they should have known Him intimately.  Unfortunately, they refused to see it was natural to acknowledge God and abandoned Him for irrational ideas and monstrous behavior.
13.
How and to what extent does Paul’s description of society apply to our society today?
 

Paul’s description of humanity throughout the ages was very similar to the Roman world’s behavior in the first century.  Unfortunately, this is also a very accurate description of many segments of our world today.  These things include homosexuality, myths (i.e. Scientology), philosophy and physiology that over-explain the simple to make it complicated and ultimately the rejection of mans natural action to acknowledge and worship God.
Chapter Two
1.
To whom is chapter two addressed?
 
Paul is addressing the self-righteous Jew and Gentile Philosophers in the Roman church that are condemning others, specifically pagans who had failed to follow the faith.  He was criticizing them because they were hypocrites they may not have been guilty of the sins others committed but they were equally guilty of sin.  Probably more damning was that they failed to see the gift that God had given them through Jesus Christ and acted as if they were somehow superior to other men.
2.
What is taught about judging?  What did Jesus say about judging?
 
Judgment toward others only increases God’s anger against those who judge.  Jesus said to judge not lest you be judged.  This confirms Paul’s argument.
3.
What is taught about God’s judgment?
 
On the day of judgment God will judge men according to their behavior.  Those who practiced good behavior (love, patience, mercy) will receive eternal life.  Those who practiced bad behavior (rejection, judgment) will receive anger and fury, pain and suffering, Jews first but Gentiles also.
4.
Restate the questions in verses 3 and 4 in your own words.
 
Do you believe that God will not condemn you when you behave exactly as those you condemn?  And are you not misusing God’s goodness by failing to see that His goodness is offered to lead you to repentance?
5.
What does Paul mean here by the goodness of God?
 
In this context the goodness of God refers to His characteristic of love that continually overlooks our sin to allow us His forgiveness.  The Jews viewed it as a birthright, the Gentiles as a gift of salvation.  God gives us this love so that we may repent and embrace his lifestyle.  He does not give it as some sort of free pass into a blessed eternity.
6.
What contrast to find in verses 7-10?
 
Renown, honor, and immortality by doing good vs. unsubmissive, refuse truth, took depravity
  
 
Eternal life vs. anger and fury
  
 
Pain and suffering vs. renown, honor and peace
  
 
Jew and Gentile
  
 
Good and evil
  
7.
What results from ignoring the goodness of God?
 
Hell and damnation
  
8.
On what basis will God judge the man that has had no knowledge of the law?
 
If they are sinners they will perish the same.  If they kept the law because of their conscience though they had no knowledge of the law they will be considered to be of the law and will be saved.
9.
On what basis will the Israelite of Biblical (pre-Christian) times be judged?  The Jew of New Testament times? People today?
 
The Israelites will be judged according to the law.  The Jews will be judged according to their response to Jesus Christ.  People today will be judged according to their response to Jesus Christ.
10.
How will the people who have never heard the Gospel be judged?
 
The same as if they have never heard the law (question eight).  If they hold the goodness of Christ Jesus in their heart and live according to that they will know the salvation of Christ.
11.
How are the law of Moses and the law of conscience related?  Are they the same in essence?
 
They both define good and bad behavior, which is the difference between right and wrong.  In this context they are essentially the same because they are used to rule humanity's heart and the tool that that determines our faithfulness to God.
12.
What does Paul say about the Jews?  Restate the question in your own words.
 
Paul says that if the Jews really believe in salvation through the law then they should be the embodiment of the law.  They should know it and practice it so well that they can and do lead others to salvation through the law.  He goes on to say that they will not be hypocrites to the law; they will not be adulterers, thieves, or disrespect the temple.
13.
Explain verse 24.   START HERE
 
Paul is criticizing the Jew for their poor witness for God. He says their inability to keep the faith causes the pagans to reject and even curse God. Their failure to be the beacon of faith that God chose them to be has cause the other peoples of the world to reject God.
14.
What is the value of circumcision as Paul presents it here? What is the purpose of this ritual in the Hebrew Bible?
 
Circumcision value is that it is a sign that someone belongs to the people of God. However, if the person does not keep the faith of God the circumcision becomes a liability and is of no value. Paul says that if a man is truly a man of God his heart is circumcised. That is to say that his heart is for God. Paul says that this is the true circumcision that matters to God. This is the true Jew.

This ritual in the Hebrew Bible was first used by Abraham to show that he was a man of God and that he was connected to God through covenant for his lifetime and his descendents lifetimes. Circumcision is an outward and visible sign of a man’s commitment to God. This was extended through his male children by circumcising them at birth as an outward sign of a promise that the child would be raised as a man of God. This is still true for the Jew today.
15.
Identify the OT passages which form the basis for verses 25-29. Is Paul an innovator in his interpretation of the OT here?
 

Genesis 17:9-14 establishes circumcision as the sign of those people who have a covenant with God. In Deuteronomy 10:12-22 Moses instructs the Hebrew people to circumcise their hearts. He means for them to keep the laws and covenants of Yahweh because God loves us and we should love him with all our heart and soul in return.

Paul is not an innovator of the OT in this passage. Moses introduces the idea of circumcision of the heart in Deuteronomy. Paul is simply reintroducing the idea to the Roman Jews and reminds them that to be a man of God it must be evident from their behavior not simply an appearance of the Jew.

16.
Who is the real Jew?
 
The real Jew is the man who lives the law because of his love of God.
17.
Compare the person to this chapter to the one in 1:18-32.
 
The person in 2:25-29 is the Jew (the man of God) who relies on his special relationship with God to spare his soul, simply because he is a Jew by birth and sign. He fails God because he does not have a personal relationship with God and does not honor him through love or commitment to God. Thus his heart is not circumcised. The person in chapter 1:18-32 does not know God at all, in this world a pagan or Greek. He has rejected God even though logic compels everyman to accept God. He has rejected what is natural for what is unnatural not only in his spirit life but his physical life. He has rejected any relationship to God.

18.
Does the teaching of this chapter apply uniquely to the Jew, or may it be appropriately applied to the Christian? To religious humanity in general?
 
The teaching of this chapter applies to today’s Christian as much as it did first century Jews and Christians, if not more. The central thought is that we not rely on others, actions, or associations to have a relationship with God. A relationship with God is not something that happens by intellect, claim, or appearance. A relationship with God happens as a result of loving God and committing our lives to Him. It is a relationship of the heart. In general this is true of Muslims and Jews as well as Christians.  
19.
Compare Jewish circumcision and Christian baptism. Is what is taught about circumcision here transferable to baptism?
 

Yes, circumcision and baptism are both signs and promises to God to be His person. Therefore, it can be said that it is not enough to wear the sign and make the promise (in the case of infants have our parents make the sign for us) it is necessary to keep the faith in our heart and our actions. Today we might say to have a personal relationship with Jesus Christ.

 
Chapter Three
1.
What is the answer to the question of verse 1?
 
Yes. Jews at that time had an advantage because they had background and they were given the job of revealing Gods message to the world. They had been the keepers of the faith. Therefore, since they were children old enough to understand they had been instructed in the faith. Jews did not have to learn the faith from the ground up. They were ready for the introduction of the Messiah.
2.
What is taught about God and humanity in verses 2-4?
 
God will not reject humanity because of our infidelity. He may become angry which is reflected in His judgment, but He will not be unjust. God is not unjust and will not repay unjustness for unjustness.
3.
Restate the questions of verse 5-8 in your own words. Whose attitude do they represent? What point is Paul making?
 
How can we say that God is unfair, just because He becomes angry with us for our own misdeeds?
They represent those who reject God with the accusation that God is an unjust God because He becomes angry with us and rebukes us for our sin.

Paul is making the point that God is always just. He does however, have the right to pass judgment on all mankind which will sometimes mean that evil people will be punished.
4.
What is the answer to the question in verse 9? How is it distinct from the question in verse 1?
No one has an advantage over the other when it comes to the issue of sin. We are all failures when it comes to keeping the law. This is different from the question in verse 1 because it deals with a different issue. Verse 9 deals with the issue of sin. Verse 1 deal with the issue of revelation. The Jews were better off from the stand point of revelation because God had given them His message from the time of Abraham.
5.
How is the catena (chain) of OT quotations related to Paul’s argument?
This chain of OT scriptures describes the sinful nature of humanity. Paul uses the authority of scripture to prove his argument that all of humanity is sinful and needs grace.
6.
Explain the a fortiori argument used here.  
In this case the fortiori is all of humankind. Paul is saying that all of mankind is guilty before God. This is because no one can totally keep the law. This is the same point that Jesus makes when He says who among you has not committed adultery in your heart or murder in your heart? None of us can respond favorably to this, therefore, none of us can judge another human.
7.
Of what value is the law (vv. 19-20)? What two meanings of the term law are used here?
 
The laws value is do identify sin. It describes the boundaries that God has set for humankind.  This is the broader term of the law as it applies to all of humankind. The narrow term of the law is righteousness. An individual becomes righteous by observing the law.
8.
What does Paul say about the righteousness of God?
Paul is saying that God’s righteousness goes beyond to law to grace. God is perfect in His observance of the law, as is represented in Jesus Christ life on earth. Humankind on the other hand falls miserably short of the law. However, because God’s righteousness is so great He offers us salvation from our inability to keep the law. This is to say that God’s righteousness not only includes the dimension of the technical application of the law but the dimensions of grace and love which is our saving grace.
9.
What is involved in the word believe?
In this context the word believe is much deeper than the modern application of the word. In modern times we may say that we believe in thus and so. In the same way we may have an opinion about something that most likely will change or develop over time. In this context the word believe is two parts. On Gods part it is the sacrifice of his Son, Jesus. Our part it is the act of inwardly receiving the gift that He gives us and acknowledging the reality that we could not do it for ourselves. Then our belief goes further into faith which is to literally apply the actions of our lives to this faith. These actions supersede our feeling and our desires. It also includes the inner peace that comes through the knowledge that neither life, nor death, nor things seen or unseen … can separate the believer from the love (relationship of salvation) of God.
10
Explain the terms:
a. Being justified- to make righteous in the sense that we are acquitted of our sins because someone else paid the price for our sins (Jesus on the Cross).  
b. Redemption- (through the blood of Christ) the act of setting men free from the bondage of sin.  
c. Expiation – to cover up, wipe clean, or cleanse i.e. Expiate wipes out the sin.    
11.
Why was it necessary for Jesus to shed his blood? Could God have saved humanity without this?
 
It was necessary for Jesus to shed his blood for the sins of people who lived prior to His coming that went to heaven unpunished. He also shed his blood for the people of our time. He did this to show that He is just and that His submission to crucifixion justifies those who believe. God can do anything He wants, including save humanity in any way that He whishes. However, mans relationship with God would not have meaning with out atonement for our sins.
12.
What does verse 25 mean? Did God ignore the sin of pre-Christian people? Distinguish passing over (paresis) from remission (aphesis).
Verse 25 explains that God sacrificed Jesus for those who seek reconciliation to God by faith.
God did not ignore the sins of pre-Christian people. Jesus atoned for the sins of the faithful in all time. Their sins were passed over like their houses were passed over by the plague.
13.
What should our attitude be toward the Law of the Hebrew Bible (i.e. the Old Testament)? Some will say that it does not apply to us because we live under grace and not law. How should you respond?

We should embrace the law of the Hebrew Bible. It is true that we go to God under grace jus as the pre-Christian people came to God by faith (Abraham) and were atoned by grace. We should not reject the Old Testament because it is part and parcel of the Christian faith. We can not understand the Christian experience with out it. It also establishes the guidelines that the Christian faith is based upon.

 
Chapter Four
1.
How is chapter 4 related to the argument of chapter 3?
Chapter 3 makes clear that the only way to receive salvation is through faith. Chapter four is about salvation by grace.
2.
How is the question of verse 1 answered?
Abraham was counted as righteous because he had faith which reconciled him to God. Abraham had this faith while he was still Abram. This was before God made any promises to him.
3.
What is the Old Testament background for verse 3?
Genesis 15:16 states that Abraham put his faith in God which made Abraham justified.
4.
What is the meaning of righteousness (dikaiosyne)?
Righteousness is to make right or pure that which is un-pure. In the case of man God makes us righteous through Jesus despite the fact that we are unclean because of our sin.
5.
What is taught about work and faith in verses 4 and 5?
If a man were to keep all the laws and present himself before God as pure then his work done for the kingdom of Heaven is paid wages because it is earned. However, if a man has not worked for the Kingdom of Heaven to perfection then his faith in Jesus Christ allows God’s acquittal of his sins and God considers the man to be righteous.
6.
Why does Paul refer to David here?
 
Jewish authority
 
Introduction of the idea that righteousness not works has always applied to God’s children. This is because men, like David, have never been able to claim work as a means to a relationship with God. Although, David’s works and faith exceeded that of most other men even he was not righteous before God because of his sins.
 
7.
What is the significance of the questions in verses 9 and 10?
In the early Church Jewish Christians were concerned with keeping the Jewish law particularly circumcision. This was because the sign of the man of God was circumcision. Paul was definitely opposed to this. Here he makes the point that circumcision in Abraham’s case came after his faith made him righteous. Paul also uses Abraham experience to argue that righteousness is available to the circumcised as well as the uncircumcised.
8.
Why did Abraham receive the sign of circumcision after faith was reckoned to him as righteousness?
Abraham received the sign of circumcision after he was made righteous. This was to bee seen only as a sign. Paul makes the argument that in a sense Abraham is the father of all believers circumcised and uncircumcised.
9.
Why did the promise to Abraham take the form that it did? Through the righteousness of faith?
Abraham’s promise took the form that it did to open the doors of faith so that all men could choose salvation through faith. This means that faith is not limited to one race or people, which claim God through family descent. Another reason is that men are incapable of receiving justification by keeping the law.
10.
Explain the logical connection made in verse 16.
The passage in verses 13-25 explain why God allows men to rely on faith not works. Verses 13-15 explain why men can not rely on works. Verse 16 explains that God’s plan was to rely on faith. Verses 17-25 explain why dependence on faith is necessary using Abraham’s example.
11.
Why is Abraham mentioned again in verses 19-22?
God did what was biologically impossible for Abraham and Sarah in the conception of Isaac Abraham is used as an example to illustrate that a Christians faith should rely on God even when God is required to do what is impossible.
12.
What principle is set forth in verses 23-25?
God will consider our faith in Jesus Christ’s resurrection when making the choice to acquit or convict. If we believe we will be acquitted.
13.
How does this chapter teach that justification is for all persons?
Chapter 4 teaches justification by introducing the principal of circumcision as a sign of faith. Paul makes clear that faith is available to everyone Jew or Gentile because a Christian’s circumcision is of the heart.
14.
What does this chapter say about the value of circumcision as a means of salvation? Is the same to be inferred with respect to water baptism?

Circumcision and baptism are both signs that the receiver is a man of God and that he has made the promise to have faith in God. In the case of infants it is a sign that the parents are persons of God and that they will raise their child in the ways of the Lord. This chapter makes it clear that this is only a sign and signs are not faith. Faith occurs in a mans heart. Therefore, the sign itself can not make a man justified.

 
Chapter Five
1.
What is the relationship of chapter 5 to the argument of chapters 3 and 4?
Paul again affirms the means by which man is saved, faith in Jesus, and his sacrifice on the Cross allows man to be righteous before God. This confirms what Paul has said in chapters 3 and 4 when he clarifies that man can not be saved by keeping the law, family relationship, or any other means.  

2.
Define “saving faith”. Is the definition in Hebrews 11:1 relevant here?
Hebrews is relevant because it describes the faith that we rely on in Christ Jesus which allows us salvation despite our inability to totally honor God.   
3.
Trace the progress of the believer in the first part of paragraph 1.
Man is judged righteous and at peace by faith in Jesus Christ
By faith man enter a state of grace
Man looks forward to Jesus’ glory
Man suffers
Man finds patience
Patience brings perseverance
Perseverance brings hope
God’s love is poured into mans heart through the Holy Spirit
4.
How can tribulation cause steadfastness? Hope?
Suffering/tribulation teaches patience because when someone is tried through suffering he is challenged to respond negatively but Christians should respond graciously. This tension teaches patience which ultimately develops the characteristic of steadfastness. The motivation for this perseverance is hope in salvation through Jesus Christ.
5.
What reference is made to the trinity?
The Trinity is referred to as follows: acceptance of the Lord Jesus Christ through faith, vs. 1, Gods glory vs. 3, and love of God is poured into their hearts through the out pouring of the Holy Spirit vs.  5.
6.
What is the work of each person of the trinity?
God emits His Glory, and love.
Jesus offers His life by which we are judged righteousness
The Holy Spirit pours itself into our hearts so that we can respond in love and faith.
7.
What is the proof of God’s love for us?
God sent His only begotten son Jesus to die for us when we were still sinners.
8.
What is to be the Christian attitude toward the wrath of God?
He should count on being saved by the life of Jesus and be filled with joyful trust through His death and resurrection.
9.
Summarize the basis for salvation as set forth in verses 1-11.
 
Through faith in the Lord Jesus Christ men are judged righteousness and at peace with God.
  
 
By faith and through Jesus man entered this state of grace, in which he can boast about God’s glory.
  
 
Man can also boast about his suffering which bring patience, which bring perseverance and perseverance brings hope.
 
 
The love of God is poured into mans heart through the Holy Spirit.
  
 
Gods love is evident because Christ died while men were still sinners.
  
 
Men are reconciled to God through the death of His Son and may count on being saved through the life of His Son.
 
 
Men are filled with joyful trust in God, through our Lord Jesus Christ, through whom we have already gained our reconciliation.
 
10.
Summarize the basis for salvation as set forth in verses 1-11.
 
The basis for our salvation is the fact that God loved mankind so much that He sent His Son Jesus to die on a Roman Cross to sacrifice His perfect life as atonement for men’s sins, so that men may be reconciled to God. When men accept this through our faith, our hearts our filled with love and joyful trust in God.
11.
How did sin enter the world? Define sin.
 
Sin entered the world through one man Adam. Sin is behaving out side of the boundaries established by God. This can happen literally when we break the laws established by God. It can also happen spiritually when we desire in our heart those things that are outside of the boundaries established by God.
12.
Is man punished today because of Adam’s sin?
Sin spread throughout the entire world because Adam lowered the bar, so to speak. His disobedience lowered the standard of humankind. We now live below the standard set by God in Eden. That is we all live in disobedience to God, thus we are all sinners.
13.
What is the relationship between law and sin?
Sin is acting outside of the relationship of love between man and God. People that lived before Moses knew the difference between right and wrong, through conscience.  The law was handed down to Moses. It defined the boundaries of what people already knew in their heart. Chapter five states that men could not be judged as being out side of the law prior to Moses: however, they were still considered to be guilty of sin because the acted outside of a right relationship with God. Verse 20 states “When the law came, it was to multiply the opportunities of falling”
14.
Why humanity was considered sinful before the law was given?
Prior to the law humanity was often engaged in behavior that was sinful. Their conscience directed and they knew inherently not to behave sinfully. Long life was associated with righteous living; however, death prevailed over all. According to Paul, death prevailed because of their sinful behavior. This was not considered a violation of Gods law because the law had not been formally defined to them but it was considered sinful because it was against the law of good conscience.
15.
List the contrast presented in verses 12-17.
Circumcised – Uncircumcised

Righteousness by law – Righteousness by faith

Descendents by law – Descendents by faith

Death – Life
16.
List the contrast presented in verses 18-21.
Hope – Common Sense

Fertility – Infertility

Childless – Father of many nations

Descendents – Stars

Faith, hope, glorify God, power (Abraham) – Disbelief, hopeless, deny God, helpless (Sarah)
17.
Evaluate the following statements:
a.
I am not responsible for the carnal nature being present:

This is true and false. The basic statement is true as humans we have a carnal nature that is part and parcel of our creation. Our carnal nature is part of our survival skills which assist us to survive the harshness of nature. It is false because it implies that we do not have the free will to choose our behavior. Since we have the ability to choose we are responsible for all of our actions.

  
b.
Therefore, I am not responsible for the results which come from it –my sins.

This statement is false. When we use our carnal nature for selfish purposes (sin) we are responsible for the results. Throughout scripture we are reminded that we are responsible for our sin. God created us in his image this means that we are spiritual creatures. God also created us with the ability to choose wisely and be obedient. These gifts should be used to control our carnal nature appropriately.  

 

  
Chapter Six
1.
What is the answer to the question in verse 1?
The answer to the question “Does it follow that we should remain in sin so as to let grace have greater scope?” is of course not. Paul further explains that in baptism we should have renounced sin and therefore, be dead to sin. Ideally, sin really is not a choice to one who has accepted Christ in baptism because to sin is to live in death (our former lives) rather than our new life in Jesus Christ.
2.
Explain the phrase “died to sin”. How can we be “united with him in a death like his”?
Perhaps the best way I can explain this phrase is to use an analogy. A certain man had a relationship that ended on bad terms. When the relationship was over the man said “this person is dead to me” even though the person was not physically dead. It is the same with sin when we accept Christ through baptism. Sin is still present in the world but not in the life of a Christian when he accepts Jesus’ atonement for our sin.
We are united in death with Christ when we commit to our faith, in that our former selves die. We no longer live for our selves we began living for God. In verse 5 Paul says “we imitate Christ’s death”. Therefore, even though there is not a physical death there is a spiritual death to our former lives.
3.
What is the baptism mentioned in verse 3? Explain “buried…with him by baptism into death”. Do these verses refer to water baptism? Why? Or why not?
The baptism mentioned in verse 3 is a water baptism. Christians use the term … “we recognize one baptism for the remission of sins”. Paul considered baptism the process by which we die and our buried to our old selves and at the same time are resurrected with Christ Jesus. Ideally this should happen at the instant of the ritual of baptism. However, with most Christians it is a much longer growth process. This is largely because we are either too young at baptism or because we are not spiritually mature enough to go through the instant change of death to our old selves at the point of baptism.
4.
What is the basis for the newness of life?
Resurrection is the basis for new life. Paul says in verse 5 that we imitate him in death so shall we imitate Him in resurrection. In this new life we will no longer serve sin but rather holiness. Once a man dies he has no place for sin in his life.
5.
Define “old self” define “crucify” as used in verse 6.
Old self is the man who prior to committing to Christ served sin. Crucify is the killing of sin, the death of the sinful man prior to resurrection of the new self in Christ. The evangelist Bill Bright explained it in a very meaningful way to me. He said “there was a day when I died and what I wanted no longer mattered. On that day I began to serve God and not myself.
6.
What is to happen to the “body of sin” or “sinful body” Is it to be suppressed?
It should be turned over to God to be used for his purpose. We should consider ourselves dead men brought back to life. The body goes through a spiritual reconstruction into a temple for the Holy Spirit.
7.
  • To what death do verses 7-10 refer? What is the individual’s relation to sin here? to Christ?
This is the death of sin. Sin in this context is who we served. We were the servant of sin.  Our relation to Christ in the new life is who we now serve. We become the servant of Christ.
8.
What positive instruction is given in verses 12-14? If one has died to sin (vv. 2, 10), then why is the exhortation given, “Let not sin therefore reign …”(v.12)?
“You should make every part of your body a weapon fighting for God” (v. 13 New Jerusalem).
Paul is referring to the idea that we no longer serve sin or wish to serve sin instead we wish to serve Christ. However, sin is still present in the world in which we live and just as Satan tempted Christ, he also tempts us though we are in Christ.
9.
Explain the comparisons made here between kinds of slavery and their consequences.
 
The comparison is between slavery to sin and slavery to righteousness. Slavery to sin leads to immoral use of our bodies and spiritual death. Slavery to righteousness leads to obedient use of our bodies and spiritual life.
10.
Evaluate the following inferences which have been based upon this chapter:
  a.

Sanctification is for this life, for all Christians now.

This statement is true. However, it implies that all Christians will be sanctified as a blessing with profession of faith. Few Christians ever reach a level of total sanctification. This is a process which takes time, understanding and work. Even the saints of the first century church had instances of failure.

 
  b.

One does not grow into the experience of sanctification.

This is false as stated in the previous explanation sanctification is a growth process. John Wesley explained sanctification as a process that we work toward in life.

 
  c.

Sanctification is not a suppression of the old self, of the carnal nature.

This is true; however, it is almost impossible to explain a concept like sanctification in such simple terms. It is true that sanctification is not a suppression of the old self as much as it is spiritual growth and desire to serve God. It is a joyful choice to move toward the glory of God. This does not mean that sin and ones’ old self is not are not present in the life of the Christian or that temptation does not present itself to a Christian. Sanctification is less a suppression of sin and more a submission to Christ. Suppression is to deny ones desire. Submission is to willing give ones self to God.

 

  
Chapter Seven
1.
How long is a woman bound to her husband? Why does Paul bring this matter up?
A spouse is bound to their spouse until they are separated by death. Paul is not trying to explain the commitment of a man and woman to each other. He is instead making an illustration that like a husband and wife in marriage people of faith were bound to the law until they were separated by death. This illustration is consistent with chapter six. Christians die to the ways of sin when they accept Jesus as their savior. At this time they become bound by faith to Jesus, in the same way that a woman is free to marry again after the death of her first husband.
2.
About whom is Paul speaking when he refers to the man bound to the law?
The Jewish Christians in Rome, who were struggling with the issues of faith verses law.
3.
For what purpose is man released from the law?
When the law dies in a mans life, he is free to serve in the new spiritual life in Jesus Christ.
4.
 Why is the question asked in verse 7? What is the function of the law?
Paul is making the point that the law identifies what behavior is sinful. Its function is to clarify what behavior or cultivated thoughts and beliefs are sinful such as jealousy.
5.
What experience is described in verses 9-11?
This is the human experience when we are first born we are innocent children and we are free from sin because we do not know what sin is. Then comes the time when we understand the difference between right and wrong, we understand the law. At this time we also began to struggle with sin. Since sin is death men eventually die to sin because of mans tendency toward repeated failure and ultimate sin.
6.
How is the law described in verses 12-14?
The law is sacred and what it commands is sacred. However, sin uses the law to kill mans sprit. The law is the boundary between sin and relationship with God. Sin tries to cultivate a relationship with man by tempting him to cross that boundary.  
7.
Describe the battle of verses 15-19. What is the spiritual standing of this man? Is he saved? Is he sanctified?
The battle is a description of a man’s struggle between good and evil. It is difficult to know the spiritual standing of this man. It is possible he is the man who is angry with himself because he is less than perfect. He feels angry with himself because he misspoke and possibly hurt someone’s feelings or he had a brief angry or lustful thought. Otherwise he keeps the law, loves his neighbor and is totally committed to the Lord. On the other hand, if he is referring to callus and selfish sin which he later regrets but has no intention of repenting then his spiritual standing is not good.  It is impossible to know if he is saved within this context because we do not know his relationship to the Lord. He is not sanctified because he is definitely struggling with repeated sin.
8.
Is Paul talking about himself or someone else? How do you account for this conduct?
Paul is talking about himself. He has just revealed the reality of all men that no matter how righteous we would like to be or our own merit we fail to honor God all the time and ultimately we are lost with out the salvation of Jesus Christ. This conduct is simply called human nature. The same human nature that relies on the Grace of God, through Jesus Christ.
9.
What causes the delight and also the warring in verses 22 and 23?
Love for the law causes the delight. The warring is caused by our inability to totally keep the law that we love.
10.
What desire is expressed in verse 24? What is the answer to the problem here? Explain the metaphor.
Paul desires to be rescued from sin. The only possible solution to this problem is our dependence on the saving grace of Jesus Christ. The metaphor is the answer to the question “who will save me? Jesus Christ, thanks be to God”
11.
How is this chapter related to chapter 6?

They both deal with the issue of sin and its ultimate reward – death. They also remind the Christian that the only salvation from sin is acceptance of the sacrifice made by God through His Son’s death on a cross. Finally both chapters admonish us to live righteously.

 
Chapter Eight
1.
What is the relationship of chapter 8 to chapters 6 and 7?
The relationship in these chapters is the relationship between sin, law, and sprit. The sprit of the Lord discussed in Chapter eight enables us to experience true freedom from the bondage that we experience in our sin and even in our effort to keep the law while struggling with our own human desire for sin discussed in Chapters 6 and 7.
2.
What contrasts are found in verses 2-4? What work of Jesus is indicated here?
 
Law of the sprit – Law of the sin and death
 
Unspiritual body – Holy Sprit
 
Unspiritual nature – spiritual dictates
 
Sinful body – physical body of Christ
Jesus’ work referenced in these verses is His perfect life without sin is offered as atonement for all of mankind’s sin.
3.
Define the term “flesh” (sarx). What does Paul teach about the flesh in verses 5-8?
The term flesh in this context refers to the entire human body and its desire to satisfy its carnal nature. Paul teaches us that men have a choice in the path of their life. He can either choose what is not spiritual and satisfy his flesh which will ultimately lead to death, or he can choose what is sprit and find peace. This is because to choose what is not spiritual is to be at odds with God.
4.
Contrast the teaching about the flesh with the teaching about the Spirit.
Paul teaches that those who choose a life that satisfies the desires of the flesh are unpleasing to God. He goes on to say that the final result of life in the flesh results in death. On the other had Paul teaches that those who choose a life that satisfies the discipline of the spirit will have a peace within that assures them that they will not die but receive rewards of eternal life. Those in the spirit belong to Christ and their bodies my experience a physical death but God who raised Christ from the dead will also raise those who are in Christ from the dead. Therefore, we should not submit to our unspiritual nature but yield to the spirit of Christ and avoid the experience of spiritual death.
5.
What thoughts are introduced by the word “if” in verses 9-11?
The idea introduced is that not all hearers of this message have the spirit of Christ in them. Therefore, they will not know spiritual resurrection unless they choose to live their life in the spiritual nature of the world. 
6.
List the contrast in verses 12-15.
Unspiritual selves or unspiritual lives – Spiritual lives
Sin and death – Obedience and life
Children of God – Slaves to sin
Bondage – Freedom
7.
What is the witness of the Spirit? How can we know that it is God speaking?
The spirit witness’ that we are children of God, we know that it is God speaking because the spirit compels us to cry out for God as our father.
8.
What does it mean to be an heir of God?
We are coheirs with Christ sharing in His glory as well as his suffering. We will eventually share in all things that Jesus has experienced. This means that we will not only share in the glory and love of God in His heavenly home, but we will suffer in this life just as Jesus suffered in His time here on earth.  
9.
How is the paragraph, verses 18-25, related to the preceding paragraph?
This paragraph is the continuation of the beliefs expressed in verse 17. It also expounds on the belief that all of creation has suffered with Jesus in the destruction of the sins of man on this earth. Those of us in Christ wait and suffer with hope for the day that God will receive us in glory through the spirit of our gracious Lord and Savior Jesus Christ, as a child waits for his birth.
10.
What does the creation need according to verses 19-22? Why does Paul deal with this matter?
Creation waits for the sons of man to be revealed.

Paul is dealing with this matter because the early church was anxiously waiting for Jesus to return. Paul uses the birth metaphor to explain that all of creation is waiting for the beginning of the new age. At this time the true people of God will be revealed (the sons of God), the world will be righteous and Jesus will reign over all. The desire of this event is a concept that is difficult for people, even Christians, in areas like the United States to hope for because we do not live in oppression.  The early church lived in a very oppressed state and desperately hoped for Jesus to return. Paul is trying to comfort the church by explaining that the new age will occur and they will be a part of it but for now they must have faith.
11.
What need does the Christian have?
Hope, Patience and Faith
12.
What is two fold ministry of the Spirit?
The Spirit comes to help us in our weakness and he comes to pray for us when we can not find the words to express our prayers to God. 
13.
Define “foreknowledge” as used here.
In this context it means predestination. This also means that God knew the present and future before it happened. God also knew how we would respond to his calling before we make the decision.  
14.
What are the alternative readings of verse 28, including marginal readings? How are they different?
We know that by turning everything to their good God co-operates with all those who love him, with all those that he has called according to his purpose. (The Jerusalem Bible)
And we know that in all things God works for the good of those who love him who have been called according to his purpose. (NIV)

We know that in everything God works for good with those who love him who are called according to his purpose. (The New Oxford Annotated Bible)
15.
Explain the meaning of verses 29-30.
Paul is explaining that those of us who are in Christ are the children of God. Jesus is the eldest. We will all celebrate as one family in the resurrection as sons and daughters of God.
16.
What proof do we have that God is for us?
We know that God is for us because nothing can separate us from God’s love.
17.
Summarize the chapter setting forth the basis for Christian confidence.

Chapter eight is the explanation of our family relationship with God. When we accept Jesus atonement for our sin we are free of the law. Accepting Jesus means committing to Jesus living the law of love not obligation. Paul explains that everyone moved by the Spirit are children of God and as children we share in His Glory with Jesus our eldest brother, the first born of creation. As Christians we can be confident of our relationship as God’s children because nothing can separate us from God’s love (see verses 31-39).

 
Chapter Nine
1.
List the Old Testament quotations and allusions in this chapter.

Verse 7: It is through Isaac that your name will be carried on.

Verse 9: I shall visit you … and Sarah will have a son

Verse 12: the elder shall serve the younger

Verse 13: I showed my love for Jacob and my hatred for Esau

Verse 16: I have mercy on whom I will, and I show pity to whom I please

Verse 17: It was for this I raised you up, to use you as a means of showing my power and to make my name known throughout the world

Verse 20: The pot has no right to say to the potter: Why did you make me this shape?

Verse 25-26: I shall say to a people that was not mine, You are my people, and to a nation I never loved, I love you. Instead of being told, You are no people of mine, they will now be called the sons of the living God.

Verse 27-28: Though Israel should have as many descendents as there are grains of sand on the seashore, only a remnant will be saved, for without hesitation or delay the Lord will execute his sentence on the earth.

Verse 29: Had the Lord of hosts not left us some descendants we should now be like Sodom, we should be like Gomorrah.

Verse 33: they stumble over the stumbling stone … See how I lay in Zion a stone to stumble over, a rock to trip men up- only those who believe in him will have no cause for shame.

Paul is explaining the relationship of God and Israel. This includes both their election and their rejection by God. Paul is explaining that through them His plan of salvation was initiated and that it is now extended to all mankind. Again, the true sons of God are the ones who believe in Him.

2.
Summarize what is said about the Israelites in verses 4-5?
Paul is describing the privileges of Israel they were adopted sons, they were given glory and covenants, the law and ritual were drawn up for them, and the promises were made to them. They are descended from the patriarchs and the Christ came from them.
3.
What does Paul mean in verse 6? Why does he wish this?
Jewish Christians in the first century church might ask this question. They may have been concerned that God did not keep His promise to Israel. Paul address’ this by arguing that God did keep His promises but that not everyone of Israel is a true son of God.
4.
Explain the statement, Esau I hated.
God did not literally hate Esau, although He was not pleased with him or his brother’s behavior. God simply did not show Esau favor as He did Jacob. This is explained again in the explanation of the potter and the clay. God chooses some people for great task others for simple task all to meet our needs for salvations plan. It is sometimes difficult to see this in the midst of personal unfair circumstances but we must rest in the assurance that in God’s plan all things work for the good of those who serve Christ.
5.
Explain what Paul teaches here about election. How do Isaac and Jacob serve as illustrations of it?
These examples illustrate that God is free to choose as He will and that favor depends on the one who calls not on human merit or talent. Often he calls the weaker or unlikely to lead in glory. If this is His intention or not I do not know but it does illustrate His power and authority over human life.
6.
What use did God make of Pharaoh?
God hardened Pharaoh’s heart; therefore, Pharaoh (the most powerful man in the world at that time) made bad decisions because of his hard heart which illustrated God’s power over him. 
7.
What is the meaning of the questions in verses 19-20?
Paul is illustrating that God is in total control of all that happens. Like the potter and the clay we have no choice and no right to ask God what purpose he chooses for our life. Our place is simply to accept God’s will and to submit to it in a Christ like manner, thou will not mine be done.
8.
Why does God tolerate (“endure”) sin or permit it to exist?
God permits people to engage in sin because He wishes to show mercy to them. God is waiting for their redemption, or the existence of the righteous is dependant on the life of the sinner i.e.: descendents.
9.
What conclusion does Paul draw in verses 30-33?
Paul concludes that pagans who were not looking for righteousness found it and that many in Israel who were looking for righteousness did not find it. Those in Israel who did not find righteousness failed to find it because they did not put their faith in God but rather in the law.
10.
Based upon Paul’s presentation in chapter 9, how are God’s sovereignty and human free will related?
Man’s only real choice is to choose to follow God or not follow God. God will allow us to do what is evil but He will ultimately use it for the good of the kingdom. An early example of this is Joseph and his brothers. God allowed the brothers to do what was evil, sell Joseph into slavery, but God used it for good. Joseph’s position in Egypt saved the world’s greatest family from starvation. As Joseph said, what you meant for evil God meant for good.
Chapter Ten
1.
What is stated about the Jews in verses 1-3?
Paul is stating his love for his Jewish brothers and his desire for them to be saved. He states that he can swear for their fervor for God but their zeal is misguided. The Jews failed to understand the righteousness of God and promoted their idea of righteousness instead.
2.
Why are the questions asked in verses 6-8? What use is Paul making of Deuteronomy 30:1-14?
The questions are rhetorical. They make the point that no one can bring about access to Jesus either by transcending heaven or hell. This is in contrast to what many Judaizers believed. They apparently believed that they could bring about Jesus’ second coming earlier than originally planned based on Moses farewell address in Deuteronomy. Paul explains that this is not possible because mankind is no longer under the law but under grace.
3.
In what way are verses 9-10 based upon Deuteronomy 30:14? What does Paul mean to say in verses 9 and 10?
They both make the point that what we believe in our heart and what we profess verbally is what will save us. Moses makes this point about the Word. Paul makes this point about Jesus. Christians believe that Jesus was the Word. Paul is saying that if we profess Jesus to be the Christ and believe it in our heart we will be made righteous and we will be saved from our sins.
4.
What does this chapter offer as proof that the gospel is available to all persons?
Verse 12...it makes no distinction between Jew and Greek: all belong to the same Lord.
5.
What method of salvation is presented in this chapter? What is involved in confessing and in believing?
Faith in Jesus as the Christ is the method of salvation presented in this chapter. Confession is the verbal expression of faith in Jesus Christ. Believing is the faith of the heart or soul which knows Jesus as the Lord.
6.
How does this chapter show that the Jew alone is responsible for his condition?
Paul discusses in verses 14 – 21 that the Jews were given God’s message time and again and just a remnant accepted the truth and believed. The Jews rejection of God’s word, given by Jesus and even Isaiah and Moses, results in consequences that only the Jews are responsible for.
7.
How could Paul write verse 11 (quoting Is. 28:16) when he had or would experience being cast into prison, beaten, cut off from the Jews, shipwreck…?
Paul quotes Is. to confirm what he is teaching and what many Christians would experience as a result of their faith in Christ Jesus. This teaching is that many Christians will have experiences that would normally cause difficulty, physical pain and shame or embarrassment according to Jewish social standards (or most any other culture) but these Christians need to know that they have no cause for shame because God will love them for their suffering in the name of His son.
8.
What is the relationship of verse 12 to the rest of the chapter?
Chapter 10 is a discussion of the unique relationship that the Jews have with Paul. Verse 12 makes it clear that regardless of the unique relationship the Jew’s have with God all people are part of the family of man and that those who accept Jesus as their savior are the Sons of God regardless of their blood line.
9.
Does confession (vv.9, 10) refer to repentance or to a profession of faith? What forms can such confession take?

Verses 9 and 10 refer to a profession of faith. This form of confession can take place in a multitude of ways. They include speaking the words that Jesus is Lord raised from the dead , singing hymns of salvation through Jesus, writing letters, songs, articles etc witnessing faith, or living a simple life devoted to Christ.

 
Chapter Eleven
1.
How does Paul answer the question of verse 1?
Paul states that God has not abandon Israel. He explains that God has saved a remnant for himself who have been true to God’s word and have accepted His Son.
2.
Explain these phrases: chosen by grace and the elect obtained it.
The phrase chosen by grace means that the Jews who became Christian were a special group chosen by God. They were not chosen because they earned it but of the goodness of God’s heart.
The phrase the elect obtained it means that the Christian Jews chosen by grace became part of the Christian Faith. That is they obtained the truth of the gospel of Jesus Christ.
3.
Explain verse 8. Find and read Old Testament reference.
Paul proves his claim in Jewish scripture (Old Testament). Paul first quotes Deuteronomy 29:3 God has given the sluggish spirits, unseeing eyes and inattentive ears, and are still like that today. Isaiah quotes this scripture written by Moses in Is. 29:10. David wrote in the Psalms 69:22 a similar statement: may their own table prove a trap for them, a snare and a pitfall – let that be their punishment; may their eyes be struck incurably blind, their backs bend for ever. Moses, David, and Isaiah are making references to their contemporaries that refuse to accept God’s instruction and yield to His expectations of mans behavior. Paul uses their criticisms of his ancestors to explain his own criticisms of first century Jews who were rejecting the gospel of Jesus Christ.
4.
Restate the question of verse 11 in your own words. How is it answered?
Have the Jews rejected God and fallen from His favor for the last time or will they have another opportunity to be redeemed and find salvation in Jesus Christ? Paul answers this question in this way: Certainly, they have made a serious error in rejecting Jesus, but this error has benefited the whole of humanity. This is because all of the world will know the gospel of Jesus Christ because of the Jew’s rejection of Jesus. This will mean the reconciliation of every believer to God. Paul goes on to say that the Jews will someday accept Jesus as the Messiah and when this happens to God’s satisfaction it will result in the resurrection of the dead.
5.
Restate the exclamation (RSV) in verse 12. What philosophy of life is set forth here? Where else in the book has the same philosophy been expressed?
The whole world has benefited from the Jews rejection of Jesus and defection from the truth of the Messianic hope and gift. The whole world will benefit in an even greater way when the Jew’s embrace Jesus as the Messiah.

The idea that nothing happens in God’s world by mistake, or in more sophisticated terms manifest destiny is the philosophical idea expressed in this verse. This can also be found in Romans Chapter nine when Paul discusses man’s free will in relation to God’s sovereignty.
6.
What is the significance of the olive tree? What warning is expressed here?
The olive tree is the people of God which was Israel. God is the farmer who prunes the non yielding branches away. The non Jewish Christian are the new branches which are grafted into the tree. The Jewish Christians are the branches that remain.  Paul is explaining that God pruned away the non believers because they were so proud that they could no longer see the faith (they rejected Jesus). He warns that God can cut off the new people of God if they like their Jewish counterparts become so proud that they are no longer able to see the faith. If this happens God will cut them away from His favor and replace them with the former people of faith (the non believing Jews). 
7.
What is taught about human responsibility?
We are responsible for our commitment to faith and to understand what the faith is about, the teachings of Jesus. We are also not to become arrogant in out faith and think ourselves superior to the Jews. If fact we should look after the Jews as our brothers in the faith.
8.
Explain the statement. The Deliverer will come from Zion… What is the Old Testament source of the quotation? How does Paul use it?
The Messiah/savior will be a Jew, from the house of David. This Old Testament source is Isaiah 59: 20-21 and 27: 9. Paul is using this scripture to make the point that the world can only be saved through the Jews.
9.
Has salvation by faith been unfair to the Jews?
It is impossible to say what is unfair when it concerns the matters of God. The fact is that history unfolds as God intends it to and it is not our place to judge God’s plans.
12.
What is the significance of verses 33-36 within the structure of the book?
The significance of these verses is for Paul to remind his reader’s that God is the author of life and although many things discussed in Romans seem unfair we are not even capable of understanding His plan.
11.
  • Summarize Paul’s argument that Israel is not totally rejected.

Paul is simply making the point that Israel has always been the family which God acts through and they will remain to be the family that God works our his plans for human history. However, the chapter makes the point that we are all God’s children and that God desires that Gentiles should be the recipients of grace and a part of the family of God as well as our Jewish brothers. In the end the family of God will consist of those who desire to be a part of His family if we accept the salvation of the one who comes from Zion, Jesus.

 
Chapter Twelve
1.
What is the relationship of chapter 12 to chapters 1-11?
Chapters one through eleven are the explanation of the Christian faith. That is, Paul explains many of the major theological questions of the faith in chapters one through eleven. Chapter twelve is the exhortation. This is where the practical application of the faith is explained to each Christian, do this do that etc.
2.
What is the mercy of God that Paul mentions here?
The grace offered to mankind through the sacrifice of Jesus for the forgiveness of sins. God is merciful in that He gives us the opportunity to accept Jesus as our savior and in return He acquits us of our sin.
3.
What are the conditions under which we are to present our bodies? Why?
The conditions which we should present our bodies are; living bodies, holy sacrifice, pleasing to God. This is to honor God for His forgiveness of our sins. According to this scripture this should be done to discover God’s will, to know what is good, and what is the perfect thing to do.
4.
Why does verse 1 refer to the body and verse 2 to the mind?
Paul understands that this is a discipline that must be practiced in body and mind. It is possible to have a body that is free of physical sin and have a mind that is totally corrupt.
5.
What does the word transformed imply?
The word transformed implies that Christians are changed people. That is they have been born from above (spiritually) so that they no longer participate in the sinful behavior committed prior to committing to Jesus Christ.
6.
List and distinguish the spiritual gifts mentioned here?
Prophecy – Ability to explain future which includes detailing certain events
Administration – The practical application of faith i.e. paying bills, delegating task
Teaching – Educating people in the Christian Faith
Preaching – The exhortation of the Gospel of Jesus Christ
Almsgivers –Giving of Gifts
Diligence – Continual works in faith regardless of failure or difficulty
Works of Mercy – forgiveness, feeding the poor, and clothing the poor
7.
What is the relationship of verses 3-8 to verses 1-2?
In verse 2 Paul states that Christians should not model the behavior of the world but model the behavior of a new mind in Christ. In verses 3-8 Paul discusses the behavior of a Christian mind.
8.
How will love affect the following? (a) attitude toward evil, (b) attitude toward a Christian brother or sister, (c) attitude toward service, (d) attitude toward the enemy, (e) personal conduct.
We should never repay evil with evil.
Our attitude toward our Christian brothers or sisters should be the same as our attitude toward a blood brother; we should treat each other with profound respect.
We should work for the Lord with untiring effort.
We should bless our enemies when they persecute us, never curse them.
Everyone should see that our behavior is based on the highest standards.
9.
How are verses 9-21 related to verses 1-8?
Verses 1 -8 are instructions on how we should respond to God. Verses 9-21 are instructions on how we should respond to our fellow man.
10.
What is the theme of each of the paragraphs?
Paragraph 1 verses 1-2 – Spiritual Worship

Paragraph 2 verses 3-8 – Humility and Charity

Paragraph 3 verses 9-13 – Love

Paragraph 4 verses 14-21 – Charity
11.
With what Chapter is Chapter 12 closely connected? Chapter 6? Chapter 11? To what does the conjunction “therefore” refer?

Chapter 12 is an exhortation to all Christians. Chapter 6 is an exhortation to the Gentile Christians to commit their body and mind to God. Chapter 11 is also an exhortation to commit body and mid to God. It can be presumed that it is to be delivered to Jewish Christians. It follows his explanation of the Jewish relationship to Christianity.

The “therefore” technically refers, in the context of the letter, to the response of Jewish Christians to God’s master plan. However, these chapters are instructions that all Christians through out time and origin should follow.

 
Chapter Thirteen
1.
What is to be the Christian’s attitude toward the civil government? What is the basis for this attitude?
Christians should obey all governing authorities, because all government comes from God.
2.
Compare the attitude toward the civil government that is required in Romans, chapter13, with the attitude toward the “beast” and their government that is apparent in Revelation, chapter 13. How do the different (1st century AD) political situation affect the attitudes prescribed and assumed in these two passages?
Paul wrote his letter to the Romans prior to the reign of Nero and his persecution of the Christians. At that time the Roman authorities had hardly taken notice of the Christian movement. John wrote his vision recorded in Revelation during the darkest days of the Roman persecution of the Christians. The emperors that followed Nero made things worse for the Christians.

When Paul wrote Romans the church survived quite well by staying low key and relying on their Hebrew roots to establish the authenticity of their faith. When John wrote Revelation Christians were considered public enemy number one. Practicing the faith became a matter of breaking the law. Christians soon learned that it was impossible to practice the faith with out breaking the law.
3.
Does verse 4 sanction capital punishment? State the basis for your answer.

Verse 4 does sanction capital punishment. According to Barrett the wrath of God can be brought forth through the hands of the magistrate. This applies particularly to unlawful citizens who commit crimes of the state that are also unlawful to God. This recalls the term ius gladii. This meant that the authority had the right to impose the death penalty against the unlawful. The idea is that God used the authorities to carry out His vengeance.  
4.
What principal does Paul state in verse 5?
Obedience to civil and divine authority
5.
In what way were the people to show their submission to authority?
They were to obey the laws of authority in which ever state they lived. Since he was addressing the Romans they were to obey the laws of Rome. Paul instructs Christians to pay their taxes, avoid debt, keep all the commandments, and love your neighbor as yourself.
6.
What principal does Paul present in verses 8-10? What Old Testament verse is the source of the statement about loving one’s neighbor? Where else in the New Testament is the same statement used?
“Love thy neighbor” is the principal Paul presents in verses 8-10. The Old Testament source’s of this passage is Exodus 20:13-17 and Deuteronomy 5:17-21. These statements can also be found in Matthew 22:34-40, John 13:34, Colossians 3:14.
7.
What appeal is made in verses 11-14?
Paul believed in two spiritual era’s. The time from Adam to the resurrection of the saints was one era. The time from the resurrection of Christ to His return was the other era. There is an overlap of time in these two eras, the period of time from the resurrection of Christ to the resurrection of the saints. Paul encouraged the Christians of his day to put on the armor of God and live as Children of God, in order to be prepared for the time of the second coming of Jesus. Christians in the early church believed that the second coming was at hand. He is appealing to the Romans in 11-14 to take on this responsibility.
8.
What is the relationship of verse 8 to the rest of the chapter?
All of the obedience stated in the chapter is a response to a Christians love for God and his fellow man. Verse 8 is the reason for the responsive behavior requested by Paul in chapter 8.
9.
How is chapter 13 related to Chapter 12?
Thirteen is a continuation of chapter twelve. They are both exhortations of Paul to the Roman church.
10.
Explain the symbolism of light/darkness, day/night, and wakefulness/sleep.

Light, day, and wakefulness represent God. Darkness, night, and sleep represent evil. This is common Biblical symbolism Light or similar terms always refer to God or a relationship to Him. The symbolism is obvious the day is the time we can see clearly, we do not hide and we act as we should. The night is the time we can not see, we hide and we participate in sinful behavior.

 
Chapter Fourteen
1.
What problem does Paul deal with in verses 1-4?
Paul discusses the differences we have in honoring and worshiping God. Ironically this example is one we still disagree about today. We might also disagree over serving wine at communion or grape juice, kneeling at the alter rail or praying in the pew. The list goes on.
2.
What advice does Paul offer? Does this advice have an application to our present lives?
Paul advises people to accept each others different practices which honor God and not to pass judgment reminding us that each of us answer to God and that it is His business how His different servants honor Him. This is advice that we should follow today as well as then.
3.
What problem does Paul deal with in verses 5-12? What warning does he give?
Paul deals with the problem of passing judgment on each other. He reminds us that we will all stand before the judgment seat of God and be judged for our own lives. 
4.
How is verse 12 related to verses 1-11?
Verse 12 is the statement that ends the disagreements discussed in 1-11. It simply says: judge not less you be judged.
5.
What does Paul teach about judging in this chapter? How does it compare with the teaching of Jesus about judging?
Paul teaches man not to judge each other. This is an affirmation of what Jesus taught.
6.
What principal does Paul present in verse 15?
Paul teaches the principal of respecting others beliefs, with in the faith, by practicing them or honoring them which ever is appropriate when an occasion for fellowship or community arises.
7.
 If all meat (food) is clean , explain how it might be wrong for someone to eat it …
It would be wrong to indulge in foods or drinks if it would cause someone to stray from the faith or to consider himself offensive to God.  This is often the case with alcohol as many Christians consider alcoholic drinks offensive, or others may be addicted and it could cause them to fall in to a self-destructive pattern. Another example would be to eat pork in the presence of a Jewish brother.  
8.
Why is a doubter condemned in verse 23?
The doubter is condemned in verse 23 because he is offering false worship to God.
9.
What is to be the Christian’s use of the power of judgment?
Christian’s should abstain if in doubt of participating in actions which might be considered offensive or obstacles’ to others.
10.
List the positive exhortations or precepts in this chapter. Formulate the principles on which these precepts are based.
 
Each Christian must be left free to his own traditions (vs. 6)
 
Never to cause your brother to stumble (vs. 13)
 
Adopt any custom that leads to peace in our mutual fellowship (vs. 18
 
Hold on to your own belief, as between yourself and God- and consider the man fortunate who can make his decision without going against his conscience (vs. 23-24).
11.
What further information about the members of the church at Rome can be inferred from this chapter?
This chapter speaks to the diversity of the Roman Church. It was made up of Jews, Greeks and Barbarians, people from all over the empire. Many of the customs were not accepted by the other cultures. The gentiles would participate in practices that offended or caused Jews to consider themselves unclean. Therefore, Paul offers advice that will resolve this difference.
12.
Is there a possible to criticism of Paul?

Paul was very earnest in his attempt to include non-Jewish Christians. He spoke often of his belief that it was not necessary for non Jews to be circumcised or participate in Jewish dietary laws to be a Christian. Many Jews argued the opposite opinion. Other Jews were offended by these unclean practices. Paul was most likely criticized for his opinion on this subject. Therefore, one can surmise Paul wrote this part of the letter to resolve conflict also to explain that he was not trying to deny his Jewish roots but to clarify his belief God cares about the heart not the outside appearance.

 
Chapter Fifteen
1.
How is chapter 15 connected with chapter 14?
Chapter 15 is a continuation of chapter 14. They are both about Christians living in tolerance of each other, supporting each other, and living in unity with each other.
2.
What general principle does Paul repeat in the opening of this chapter?
Paul teaches his readers to have mutual respect for one another and he teaches those with more maturity to help those who are less mature to be a good example by not being quick to anger.
3.
How is the Old Testament quotation of verse 3 used? How does Paul justify the use of this quotation?
Paul uses this quotation to justify the Christian practice of turning the other cheek, or being slow to anger when others provoke us.
4.
For what does Paul pray in verses 5-6?
Paul prays for tolerance, following the example of Christ. This is done to glorify God.
5.
How is verse 7 related to verses 1-6?
Verse 7 is a statement that sums up the instructions of verse 1-6. In other words just be kind toward each other.
6.
What is Paul seeking to prove by his use of the quotations in verses 9-12? What are the sources of his quotations here? Is Paul careful to respect their meanings within their Old Testament contexts?
Paul is proving his that all men belong in the family of God by using Old Testament scripture which refers to the inclusion of Gentiles (pagans) in the faith. Paul quotes Exodus 34:6, Psalms 18:50, Deuteronomy 32:43, LXX Psalms 117:1, and Isaiah 11:10; 11:1. Paul does respect their meaning within their Old Testament Context; of course this is seen from the Christian perspective.
7.
What does Paul have to say about his readers in this chapter?
Paul said that he did not have any doubts about the character of the Christians in the Roman church. He states in verse 14 that he is quite sure they are full of good intentions, perfectly well instructed and able to advise each other.
8.
What has been Paul’s motive in writing the letter?
Paul’s stated motives are, one, he is a priest appointed by Jesus Christ to instruct the church on the message of Jesus Christ and two, he is planning to visit the Roman Church and spend some time with the members on his way to Spain. It is also clear from the context of the letter that Paul is writing to explain the Christian message and identify clear boundaries for Christians to follow and believe in their faith.
9.
What do you sense to be Paul’s aim in life?
Paul‘s aim is to be and evangelist for Jesus Christ.
10.
What seems to be Paul’s plan for the future?
Paul plans to evangelize in Spain after taking a donation of money to the poor saints in Jerusalem. His plan for life is to carry the message of Jesus Christ to the ends of the earth as God permits.
11.
What three requests are made in the prayer of verses 30-33?
Pray that the love of the Spirit help Paul through his dangers.
Pray that Paul escape the unbelievers in Judaea.
Pray that the money Paul takes to the Church in Jerusalem is accepted by its saints.
12.
Compare the conclusion (15:14-33 with the introduction of the letter (1:8-17).

Paul refers to the pagans and Greeks in one and the saints in Jerusalem in fifteen.
He makes the same personal statements in the opening and closing of his letter to the Romans. He compliments them on their faith and leaders that give instruction. He also states his own dedication to the faith. He also states his intention to visit them after he carries out his plans to minister to others.

 
Chapter Sixteen
1.
What final warning does Paul give in chapter 16?
Paul warns the church at Rome to be on guard against anybody who encourages trouble or puts difficulties in the way of the doctrine they have been taught.
2.
What is the mystery mentioned in verse 25?
God’s plan of salvation was a mystery to the faith prior to Jesus’ birth. This mystery was revealed in the gospel of Jesus Christ.
3.
Which names mentioned in this chapter occur elsewhere in the New Testament? Where?
Priscilla and Aquila appear in Acts. Timothy is mentioned many times in the New Testament including Acts and the epistle of Timothy.
4.
Is Junia(s), one of those persons of note included among the apostles (v. 7), a man or a woman? Upon what do you base your answer?
I would conclude that Junias is a man. Paul refers to him as his fellow kinsman (a Jew). Paul served time in prison with him and Junias was an apostle. All of these are roles that would be held by men in Jewish/Roman culture.
5.
What additional light does this chapter throw on the conditions at the church in Rome?
It indicates that this church was made up of a conglomeration of people from all over the empire. Many of these people knew Paul and had worked with him in other churches across the empire. Others had reputations that preceded them. It appeared that many Christians had migrated to Rome. Others were Jews who had been expelled from Rome and returned after the death of Claudius.
6.
Summarize the available information about Phoebe, Priscilla and Aquila, and Timothy, and their connection with the church in Rome.
Phoebe is a deaconess of the church at Cenchreae. She has looked after many people, including Paul. Phoebe was sent to Rome by Paul to deliver this epistle. This included reading it with accentuations to the congregation.

Priscilla and Aquila were Paul’s fellow workers in Christ Jesus. They risked their life for Paul and others. Priscilla and Aquila had been exiled from Rome during Claudius’ reign. They have likely returned after his death. They were likely well established in the Roman Church and good references for Paul.

Paul was Timothy’s mentor. Paul considered him a son. He was working with Paul at this time. Timothy is sending his greetings to the Roman Church as well.   Timothy is a Roman. He most likely was raised in this church as his mother and grandmother were well known in the faith as well. Therefore, Timothy’s greeting would have been meaningful to the Roman church.
7.
What enemies are mentioned here?
People that encourage trouble or put difficulties in the way of doctrine are the enemies of the Church. Paul is speaking of people who warp the understanding of the faith by making it too complicated or irrelevant to a relationship with Jesus Christ. One example of this might be scholars who decide to reject teaching of scripture to justify a social position or redefine the recording of the life of Jesus Christ, such as the Jesus seminar groups.
8.
Compare the last paragraph of this chapter with the last of chapter 15.
Verses 22-32 of chapter fifteen is a request for prayer. Paul is asking that the Roman Church to appeal to God on his behalf. Paul ask for prayer that he have a safe journey to Jerusalem and then to Spain by way of Rome. He whishes to visit Rome for rest and fellowship with his many friends there. Verses 25-27 of chapter sixteen is a prayer of Doxology to God glorifying Him for His goodness and requesting strength in faith. Although one is a prayer request and one is a prayer they both read like the concluding of an epistle. If chapter sixteen is a post script then it is likely they are ending statements to their respective works.
9.
Where are the three benedictions found in the letter? Why the repetition?
Verse 20 is the first benediction. Verse 25 is the second benediction. Verse 27 is the final benediction. They all offer a comfort and instruction. These are most likely the issues that are of most concern to Paul at this time in his ministry. The first is a warning to guard against false doctrine, the second is have faith that God will give them the strength according to the Good News and the third is the belief that God alone gives wisdom.
10.
Is this chapter an appendix to the Epistle? Could it be a separate letter of commendation for Phoebe?
Yes, this letter is written as a postscript to the larger letter presented in chapters 1-15. Chapters 1-15 is a theological statement instructing people in the faith. These chapters are relevant to anyone who is a Christian because of their theological and instructional nature. Chapter sixteen applies specifically to people in the Roman Church and warns them against problems Paul has experience. These problems are most likely common through out the first century church.
11.
What other features of this concluding section particularly impress you?
 
The personal insight into the relationship of the people to whom the letter is addressed gives an appreciation to the fact that these are people who actually lived and died according to the beliefs expressed in the letter. It personalizes the faith among the unknown and common people of the faith.
 
The problems discussed remind us how little the church experience has changes through out the twenty century’s of Christendom.
 
Finally, Paul’s continued profession of faith inspires gratitude for the sacrifice he made to the faith which paved the way to so many who have followed him.

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