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By Ed Longabaugh|Published Date: May 10, 2013
Romans 1:18-23
18For the wrath of God is revealed from heaven against all ungodliness and unrighteousness of men, who by their unrighteousness, suppress the truth. 19For what can be known about God is plain to them, because God has shown it to them. 20For his invisible attributes, namely, his eternal power and divine nature, have been clearly perceived, ever since the creation of the world, in the things that have been made. So they are without excuse. 21For although they knew God, they did not honor him as God or give thanks to him, but they became futile in their thinking, and their foolish hearts were darkened. 22Claiming to be wise, they became fools, 23and exchanged the glory of the immortal God for images resembling mortal man and birds and animals and reptiles.
The Story: God’s most precious gift to the human race is the knowledge of Himself. This knowledge is said to come in two volumes: the Scriptures, and prior to that, the book of creation. While much remains unrevealed in the creation, yet much is plain. Whether you look at the cosmos through a telescope, or at a cell through a microscope, God Himself is revealed. Paul mentions two aspects of God’s nature that are revealed in the creation: His power and His divinity.
And yet people choose to ignore what is plain and evident. “They knew God,” Paul laments. But they—and we—prefer our own path to knowledge. This directly parallels the choice of Adam and Eve: rather than accept God’s choice for us of what is good and evil, we choose for ourselves. And, as the rest of Romans 1 shows, the choice is disastrous.
So while we retain our basic desire to worship, the focus is turned away from the true God. Humans will worship themselves, animals, even reptiles, in a grossly unfair exchange of allegiance. As a result, God’s wrath is revealed in the Gospel (“from heaven”). In an astonishing act of grace, however, Romans shows that God’s wrath will lead to Christ.
The Structure:With this passage begins Paul’s long description of human sin. While the entrance of sin into the world doesn’t come until chapter 5, here he describes how sin multiplies. Through three uses of the word, “exchanged,” Paul shows how humanity sinks deeper and deeper into sin. In chapter 1 he seems to be describing the progression of sin in human history, or in a civilization. But it could also describe an individual’s descent into depravity.
Have you ever found yourself worshiping something or someone besides God? What was it? How do you deal with this realization?
For a deeper look at the book of Romans, order the book, Salvation by Surprise: A Commentary on the Book of Romans, by Earl palmer, from our online store.
The Worldview Bible examines the teaching of Scripture according to the Story and Structure of Truth – the Framework of Christian Worldview – using only other Scriptures for illumination. Information about The Framework of Truth is available on this site. Unless otherwise indicated, all Scripture are from The Holy Bible, English Standard Version, copyright 2001 by Crossway Bibles, a division of Good News Publishers. Used by permission. All rights reserved.
When you hear the phrase, "the gospel," what comes to mind? A presentation of the plan of salvation, perhaps? While this is true, it's not remotely the whole truth about all this word entails. Literally, it's "good announcement." It's news that's never been heard before. Perhaps in the ancient world there was a public square where people could assemble and hear news of the world from travelers. And if someone stood up and announced that he had this "gospel" to share, it really was new news. For never before in the history of the world had there been news of a God who had reached out to humankind with a free gift of reconciliation.
God was not requiring sacrifices, or obedience to laws, or secret knowledge, or arcane rites in order to win His favor. He was offering grace instead, also a piece of new news. Through the Gospel of his Son, God was offering something freely, something to gladden the heart, something that couldn't be bought or earned: Himself. Freely. That's the new news, the Gospel of grace. |
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By Ed Longabaugh|Published Date: May 09, 2013
Romans 1;17b
… the righteous shall live by faith
The Story: Perhaps the two major divisions of Romans (chapters 1-11 and 12-16) could be covered by the two words, “obedience” and “faith,” see on 1:5. In this verse, which could be considered the thesis statement of Romans, Paul begins a long explanation of what “faith” covers. Remember that he has already described his mission as bringing the obedience of faith to the Gentiles. This, then, is how both Jew and Gentile will be made righteous: living by faith.
It will take many words to describe what faith is, and how one lives by faith. Grasping this concept is difficult because it goes so strongly against our natural tendencies to ignore God (1:21), and to work for his approval (3:28). But if you can, you’ll find the secret of Christian freedom: accepting both the verdict against you under the law, and the verdict of justification under grace.
The Structure: Recall the bookends that surround the entire volume of Romans: 1:5 and 16:26. Both carry the key phrase, “the obedience of faith.” Think of those two verses as the on-ramp and the off-ramp of a suspension bridge. Further, imagine that the bridge has two towers which bear the weight of the bridge itself. In Romans, the “towers” would be this verse, and 12:1 (“Present yourselves a living sacrifice”). Verse 1:17 is the principle teaching of the book, and 12:1 is the major application—respectively, they form the foundational principle and exhortation of the book.
You can see this first, in Paul’s quote of Habakkuk 2:4. This verse is cited three times in the New Testament: here in Romans, in Galatians 3, and in Hebrews 10—a key to its importance. Second, you’ll see the concept of living by faith all throughout the first few chapters of Romans: 3:25, 4:23-24, 5:1 among others.
What is your understanding of the Biblical word, “faith?” As an exercise in articulating what this is, ask a friend his or her definition; discuss your definitions.
For a deeper look at the book of Romans, order the book, Salvation by Surprise: A Commentary on the Book of Romans, by Earl palmer, from our online store.
The Worldview Bible examines the teaching of Scripture according to the Story and Structure of Truth – the Framework of Christian Worldview – using only other Scriptures for illumination. Information about The Framework of Truth is available on this site. Unless otherwise indicated, all Scripture are from The Holy Bible, English Standard Version, copyright 2001 by Crossway Bibles, a division of Good News Publishers. Used by permission. All rights reserved.
When you hear the phrase, "the gospel," what comes to mind? A presentation of the plan of salvation, perhaps? While this is true, it's not remotely the whole truth about all this word entails. Literally, it's "good announcement." It's news that's never been heard before. Perhaps in the ancient world there was a public square where people could assemble and hear news of the world from travelers. And if someone stood up and announced that he had this "gospel" to share, it really was new news. For never before in the history of the world had there been news of a God who had reached out to humankind with a free gift of reconciliation.
God was not requiring sacrifices, or obedience to laws, or secret knowledge, or arcane rites in order to win His favor. He was offering grace instead, also a piece of new news. Through the Gospel of his Son, God was offering something freely, something to gladden the heart, something that couldn't be bought or earned: Himself. Freely. That's the new news, the Gospel of grace. |
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By Ed Longabaugh|Published Date: May 08, 2013
Romans 1:17a
… the righteousness of God is revealed from faith for faith …
The Story: In this seminal, foundational verse of Paul’s Gospel, we get a condensed teaching on how life in Christ is lived. It’s “from” faith, “for” faith. But what does this mean? The English versions have attempted to say that it begins with faith (“from faith”) and continues with faith (“for faith”). In other words, we never cease living our life before God by means of faith. We believe that our sins are forgiven—by faith. We learn to trust God more and more as we go—living by faith.
What is faith? While Paul doesn’t give a dictionary-type of definition of the kind you find in Hebrews 11:1, he explains is at various places in Romans 1-5. Essentially it’s believing, or trusting in, the Gospel message. It’s a way of living life that trusts no other way except belief in Jesus’ death and resurrection. Faith believes in God’s offer of justification by faith; it builds a life on this core truth. It’s a confidence that God really did love the world—and me—to send his Son to save it from its sin.
The Structure: In translating other languages, translating prepositions is difficult at best. The ESV is cited above. Other translations: “from faith to faith” (NAS); “by faith from first to last” (NIV); “from start to finish by faith” (NLT). Sometimes it’s helpful to have two or three translations to get at the core meaning.
What do you do to help your faith grow? Can you see any evidence of growth?
For a deeper look at the book of Romans, order the book, Salvation by Surprise: A Commentary on the Book of Romans, by Earl palmer, from our online store.
The Worldview Bible examines the teaching of Scripture according to the Story and Structure of Truth – the Framework of Christian Worldview – using only other Scriptures for illumination. Information about The Framework of Truth is available on this site. Unless otherwise indicated, all Scripture are from The Holy Bible, English Standard Version, copyright 2001 by Crossway Bibles, a division of Good News Publishers. Used by permission. All rights reserved.
When you hear the phrase, "the gospel," what comes to mind? A presentation of the plan of salvation, perhaps? While this is true, it's not remotely the whole truth about all this word entails. Literally, it's "good announcement." It's news that's never been heard before. Perhaps in the ancient world there was a public square where people could assemble and hear news of the world from travelers. And if someone stood up and announced that he had this "gospel" to share, it really was new news. For never before in the history of the world had there been news of a God who had reached out to humankind with a free gift of reconciliation.
God was not requiring sacrifices, or obedience to laws, or secret knowledge, or arcane rites in order to win His favor. He was offering grace instead, also a piece of new news. Through the Gospel of his Son, God was offering something freely, something to gladden the heart, something that couldn't be bought or earned: Himself. Freely. That's the new news, the Gospel of grace. |
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By Ed Longabaugh|Published Date: May 07, 2013
Romans 1.17a
… the righteousness of God is revealed from faith for faith …
The Story: In this phrase lies one of the controversial points of Romans: does “the righteousness of God” mean “the righteousness which is God’s character,” or “the righteousness which God imputes to those who believe the Gospel”? The Greek grammar permits either one equally, and Paul seems to mean the former in at least one place, 3:25-26.
However, the main understanding of “the righteousness of God” is in the latter sense. God in Christ is not only forgiving our sins, in Christ he is also elevating us to the same stature as His Son. We’re not only forgiven, we’re given a new life that in God’s view is as pleasing, holy, beloved—that is, righteous—as the life of Jesus.
The implications of “our” righteousness—the righteousness God gives us—are staggering. Gone is the need to work at obedience as a way of satisfying God, fulfilling legal requirements. We have no need to earn God’s favor—it’s already granted to us. We are released from any threat of God’s displeasure, for He cannot love us more than He does at present, and He will not love us less than He does His Son. If we grasp this, own it, make it part of our core identity, we’re the freest of all people.
The Structure: In a four-word phrase, “the righteousness of God,” Paul captures much of what the Gospel wants to impart to us. In it we find God’s favor and grace, given freely to us in Christ. Much of chapters 3 and 4 is devoted to exploring the implications of “righteousness.”
Have you come to terms with the fact that God loves you, yes, you? How has that made any difference in how you relate to Him?
For a deeper look at the book of Romans, order the book, Salvation by Surprise: A Commentary on the Book of Romans, by Earl palmer, from our online store.
The Worldview Bible examines the teaching of Scripture according to the Story and Structure of Truth – the Framework of Christian Worldview – using only other Scriptures for illumination. Information about The Framework of Truth is available on this site. Unless otherwise indicated, all Scripture are from The Holy Bible, English Standard Version, copyright 2001 by Crossway Bibles, a division of Good News Publishers. Used by permission. All rights reserved.
When you hear the phrase, "the gospel," what comes to mind? A presentation of the plan of salvation, perhaps? While this is true, it's not remotely the whole truth about all this word entails. Literally, it's "good announcement." It's news that's never been heard before. Perhaps in the ancient world there was a public square where people could assemble and hear news of the world from travelers. And if someone stood up and announced that he had this "gospel" to share, it really was new news. For never before in the history of the world had there been news of a God who had reached out to humankind with a free gift of reconciliation.
God was not requiring sacrifices, or obedience to laws, or secret knowledge, or arcane rites in order to win His favor. He was offering grace instead, also a piece of new news. Through the Gospel of his Son, God was offering something freely, something to gladden the heart, something that couldn't be bought or earned: Himself. Freely. That's the new news, the Gospel of grace. |
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By Ed Longabaugh|Published Date: May 06, 2013
Romans 1:16b
…the Gospel … is the power of God for salvation to everyone who believes…
The Story: Another brief summary of the Gospel: “the power of God for salvation to everyone who believes.” Again, it’s hard to put something as vast and all-encompassing as the Gospel in a few words. However, this phrase contains a summary of the plan of salvation. It’s salvation for everyone who believes. Just as in chapter 10 we read “Everyone who calls on the name of the Lord will be saved,” (v.13) so here is another way to describe our response to the Gospel.
Often we think of belief as our initial response to the Gospel. But as will be made clear in the next verse, it’s always our response. And yet we struggle to keep our relationship with God from being encumbered by works. For those in ministry, the temptation to substitute skills and results for faith is constant. Yet as it is at the beginning, it’s God’s power that accomplishes all good things. We never cease our reliance on God’s power, made accessible to us through faith.
The Structure: In the Greek New Testament, the same word group is translated as “believe” or “trust” in the verb form, and as a noun, “faith.” It’s possible to make much of the distinctions in English, but not in Greek. To believe is to trust, is to have faith. This one word encompasses the response that the Gospel requires of us.
Have you ever come to the realization that you were expecting God to be impressed with your success? What was your response to that realization?
For a deeper look at the book of Romans, order the book, Salvation by Surprise: A Commentary on the Book of Romans, by Earl palmer, from our online store.
The Worldview Bible examines the teaching of Scripture according to the Story and Structure of Truth – the Framework of Christian Worldview – using only other Scriptures for illumination. Information about The Framework of Truth is available on this site. Unless otherwise indicated, all Scripture are from The Holy Bible, English Standard Version, copyright 2001 by Crossway Bibles, a division of Good News Publishers. Used by permission. All rights reserved.
When you hear the phrase, "the gospel," what comes to mind? A presentation of the plan of salvation, perhaps? While this is true, it's not remotely the whole truth about all this word entails. Literally, it's "good announcement." It's news that's never been heard before. Perhaps in the ancient world there was a public square where people could assemble and hear news of the world from travelers. And if someone stood up and announced that he had this "gospel" to share, it really was new news. For never before in the history of the world had there been news of a God who had reached out to humankind with a free gift of reconciliation.
God was not requiring sacrifices, or obedience to laws, or secret knowledge, or arcane rites in order to win His favor. He was offering grace instead, also a piece of new news. Through the Gospel of his Son, God was offering something freely, something to gladden the heart, something that couldn't be bought or earned: Himself. Freely. That's the new news, the Gospel of grace. |
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By Ed Longabaugh|Published Date: May 05, 2013
Romans 1:13, 15
I want you to know, brothers, that I have often intended to come to you … I am eager to preach the gospel to you also who are in Rome.
The Story: When you have a passion for something, it becomes your obsession. In Paul's case, his passion is for the gospel of Jesus Christ. "… I am compelled to preach. Woe is me if I do not preach the gospel!" Jeremiah says much the same of God's word: "there is in my heart as it were a burning fire shut up in my bones" (20:9).
That's what the Gospel does. It burns, and must be spoken. Or at least that's Paul's feeling about it. Why then are there seemingly so few who share the burn? who are in fact ashamed of the Gospel? Is it possible that we just don't get it, that the gospel isn't really such good news? Do we see the gospel as another set of rules to follow, an onerous burden to bear because it's the right thing? Do we live under law instead of grace; or perhaps have we allowed our own idols of ambition, success, and the American dream to replace the Gospel? Or does the cost of the Gospel seem too high for the sacrifice of our comfort and reputation?
To go with Paul's towering intellect is his burning passion for the Gospel of Jesus. What a combination! Possibly that's why he remains one of the most influential people who ever lived. For the same reason we admire people like C. S. Lewis. Now we may never reach the intellectual heights of those men, but we can certainly match their passion. In our culture today, passion speaks louder than reason. Not that we should ever abandon rigor in our thought-but all the more reason to let the Gospel transform our passions as well as our minds. May we be as eager to preach the Gospel!
The Structure: : Just as the whole of Romans is bookended (with the phrase, "the obedience of faith"), so is the introduction to Romans. Here the bookends are simply "the gospel," verses 1 and 15. Thus you might call Romans The Gospel According to Paul. It's his statement of what the Gospel is, and the Gospel's vast implications.
Do you find that the Gospel “burns” and “must be spoken” in you? Why or why not?
For a deeper look at the book of Romans, order the book, Salvation by Surprise: A Commentary on the Book of Romans, by Earl palmer, from our online store.
The Worldview Bible examines the teaching of Scripture according to the Story and Structure of Truth – the Framework of Christian Worldview – using only other Scriptures for illumination. Information about The Framework of Truth is available on this site. Unless otherwise indicated, all Scripture are from The Holy Bible, English Standard Version, copyright 2001 by Crossway Bibles, a division of Good News Publishers. Used by permission. All rights reserved.
When you hear the phrase, "the gospel," what comes to mind? A presentation of the plan of salvation, perhaps? While this is true, it's not remotely the whole truth about all this word entails. Literally, it's "good announcement." It's news that's never been heard before. Perhaps in the ancient world there was a public square where people could assemble and hear news of the world from travelers. And if someone stood up and announced that he had this "gospel" to share, it really was new news. For never before in the history of the world had there been news of a God who had reached out to humankind with a free gift of reconciliation.
God was not requiring sacrifices, or obedience to laws, or secret knowledge, or arcane rites in order to win His favor. He was offering grace instead, also a piece of new news. Through the Gospel of his Son, God was offering something freely, something to gladden the heart, something that couldn't be bought or earned: Himself. Freely. That's the new news, the Gospel of grace. |
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By Ed Longabaugh|Published Date: May 04, 2013
Romans 1:11-12
I long to see you, that I may impart some spiritual gift to strengthen you—that is, that we may be mutually encouraged by each other’s faith, both yours and mine.
The Story: Of course Paul would want to exercise his apostolic ministry, and bring something of value to the Romans—a “spiritual gift,” as he calls it. But what would they have to offer him, the apostle with the knowledge and revelation? While it’s plain that he wanted their financial support for his trip to Spain (see 1:13, 15:24), there’s more to it. Think of how encouraging it is for a long-time believer to hear the testimony of someone who’s just come to Christ, and is on fire. For Paul, no doubt a respite from opposition would be most welcome. How refreshing it is to worship with other believers, to receive their prayers and blessing.
Never think that you have nothing to offer! Anyone who even dimly grasps God’s desire to answer prayer will appreciate your offering—if you actually pray when you promise. To have an email or letter saying simply “I’m praying for you” means a very great deal. It says, I remember you; you’re not forgotten. And this is what believers in persecution seem to value most. “Please let us know you haven’t forgotten us, that you’re praying. We can endure as long as we know you’re with us.”
The Structure: There’s nothing subtle in Paul’s desire. He states it plainly: “I long to see you.” Nor is there anything hidden in his motives: to give and receive encouragement. That’s the power of what is called “fellowship.”
Whom will you contact today – email, phone, letter – just to share a word of encouragement in the Lord?
For a deeper look at the book of Romans, order the book, Salvation by Surprise: A Commentary on the Book of Romans, by Earl palmer, from our online store.
The Worldview Bible examines the teaching of Scripture according to the Story and Structure of Truth – the Framework of Christian Worldview – using only other Scriptures for illumination. Information about The Framework of Truth is available on this site. Unless otherwise indicated, all Scripture are from The Holy Bible, English Standard Version, copyright 2001 by Crossway Bibles, a division of Good News Publishers. Used by permission. All rights reserved.
When you hear the phrase, "the gospel," what comes to mind? A presentation of the plan of salvation, perhaps? While this is true, it's not remotely the whole truth about all this word entails. Literally, it's "good announcement." It's news that's never been heard before. Perhaps in the ancient world there was a public square where people could assemble and hear news of the world from travelers. And if someone stood up and announced that he had this "gospel" to share, it really was new news. For never before in the history of the world had there been news of a God who had reached out to humankind with a free gift of reconciliation.
God was not requiring sacrifices, or obedience to laws, or secret knowledge, or arcane rites in order to win His favor. He was offering grace instead, also a piece of new news. Through the Gospel of his Son, God was offering something freely, something to gladden the heart, something that couldn't be bought or earned: Himself. Freely. That's the new news, the Gospel of grace. |
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