Romans
The scope or design of the apostle in writing to the Romans appears to have been, to answer
the unbelieving, and to teach the believing Jew; to confirm the Christian and to convert the idolatrous
Gentile; and to show the Gentile convert as equal with the Jewish, in respect of his religious
condition, and his rank in the Divine favour. These several designs are brought into on view, by
opposing or arguing with the infidel or unbelieving Jew, in favour of the Christian or believing
Gentile. The way of a sinner's acceptance with God, or justification in his sight, merely by grace,
through faith in the righteousness of Christ, without distinction of nations, is plainly stated. This
doctrine is cleared from the objections raised by Judaizing Christians, who were for making terms
of acceptance with God by a mixture of the law and the gospel, and for shutting out the Gentiles
from any share in the blessings of salvation brought in by the Messiah. In the conclusion, holiness
is further enforced by practical exhortations.
Chapter 1
Chapter Outline
The apostle's commission. (1–7)
Prays for the saints at Rome, and expresses (8–15)
his desire to see them.
The gospel way of justification by faith, for (16, 17)
Jews and Gentiles.
The sins of the Gentiles set forth. (18–32)Verses 1–7
The doctrine of which the apostle Paul wrote, set forth the fulfilment of the promises by the
prophets. It spoke of the Son of God, even Jesus the Saviour, the promised Messiah, who came
from David as to his human nature, but was also declared to be the Son of God, by the Divine power
which raised him from the dead. The Christian profession does not consist in a notional knowledge
or a bare assent, much less in perverse disputings, but in obedience. And all those, and those only,
are brought to obedience of the faith, who are effectually called of Jesus Christ. Here is, 1. The
privilege of Christians; they are beloved of God, and are members of that body which is beloved.
- The duty of Christians; to be holy, hereunto are they called, called to be saints. These the apostle
saluted, by wishing them grace to sanctify their souls, and peace to comfort their hearts, as springing
from the free mercy of God, the reconciled Father of all believers, and coming to them through the
Lord Jesus Christ.
Verses 8–15