“Grace and Peace to You!” Romans 1:1-7  2/25/24
We often skip over the introduction or greetings of Paul’s letters. Unfortunately, when we do this, we miss critical theological concepts and practical applications to our lives.
We and our lost world need two critical gifts from God through faith in Jesus Christ: grace and peace. We live in uncertain times financially, politically, emotionally, and spiritually. It seems like everywhere we look, there is chaos and violence. We are in a time where evil is called good, and good is called evil.
The churches in Rome needed encouragement because of difficult times. I suggest that the churches in America need this encouragement today. Let’s see what God has for us today.

Background

It probably started from Jewish believers who experienced Pentecost in Jerusalem.
The church was primarily Jewish with a mix of Gentile.
Paul wished to visit the church in Rome but had been blocked in his attempts.

He wanted to visit to disciple them and impart spiritual gifts.

So, Paul determined to visit Rome on his way to Spain.

The Author and the Purpose v. 1-7

The apostle Paul was the author.
He identifies himself as a servant (slave) of Jesus Christ.
Christ called him to be an apostle.

Apostle means ambassador.

He was set apart for a particular work, e.g., for the gospel of God.

This is the gospel God promised beforehand through His prophets in the Holy Scriptures.
The gospel is regarding God’s Son, Jesus Christ, who was to His earthly life a descendant of David.

Jesus was appointed the Son of God in power through the Holy Spirit by His resurrection from the dead.

Through faith in the Person and work of Jesus Christ, the church received grace and apostleship to call all the Gentiles to the obedience that comes from faith for God’s glory.
The Readers and Hearers of the Letter.

This letter is addressed to the saints in Rome.

God loves them.
Called to be His holy people.

Grace and Peace come from our personal relationship with God through the Person and work of Jesus.

Conclusion:

There is true freedom in Christ alone.
We need to take the gospel to the world.
We need to put ourselves under the authority of Christ.
True grace and peace are only available by faith in Christ alone.