Lesson 2
background notes
doctrinal / teaching points
- The gospel of God reveals the power of God.
- The gospel of God reveals the righteousness of
God.
practical applications
- Are you paying off your debts?
- Are you ashamed of the gospel?
- Don’t be discouraged if God says “No” to
your godly plans.
questions
- Refer to Romans 1:8. Why was Paul giving thanks?
- When did Paul write this letter to the Romans?
- How does the gospel of God reveal the power of
God?
- Does God lower His standards to save sinful people?
- Is sharing the good news optional for the believer?
answers
- He was thankful for the believers at Rome and
thankful for their Christian testimony, which was
known throughout the whole world (that is, the
Roman Empire).
- About 57-58 A.D.
- The good news is the power of God. Intrinsic
to the gospel is the power of God to save and transform
lives when the good news is believed.
- No, although we are saved by God’s
grace and mercy, He does not lower or compromise
His
standards. Believers are declared righteous
as they accept by faith the sacrifice of Christ.
- No. Paul wrote that he was a debtor to both Greeks
and barbarians, both to the wise and unwise. The
Lord brings us into contact with many people from
all walks of life. We are the means God used to
get the good news to them. It is our responsibility,
not an option.
discuss / consider
- The Roman persecutions followed the great fire
in Rome in AD 64, when Nero blamed the Christians
for the fire. Some of these Christians would be
martyred for their faith in Christ. Would you be
so faithful under such conditions?
- Paul prayed for the Christians undergoing persecution.
How faithful are you in praying for believers around
the world who are even now undergoing great persecution?
challenge
Have you experienced the power of God to save and transform your life?
Have you experienced the power of God to save you from the penalty
and power of sin in your life? Are you sharing this good news?
memorize
- “…without ceasing I make mention
of you always in my prayers.” Romans
1:9
- “I am not ashamed of the gospel of
Christ, for it is the power of God to salvation
for everyone who believes.” Romans
1:16
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