“Look at the Book” is Bible Gateway’s series of short blog posts and infographics introducing you to the books of the Bible. With Romans, we move into a new Biblical genre: the epistle. It’s the first letter in the Bible, but not the first one Paul wrote.
Scroll to the bottom if you’d prefer to see (and save) this article as an infographic. You’ll also find a handy 30-day reading guide. Or, for a challenge, you can do it in one week using the 7-day reading guide below.
Summary
A letter from Paul to a church he did not found and hadn’t visited to provide an overview of his theology. Widely regarded as his greatest letter.
- Category: Epistle
- Theme: Righteousness
- Timeline: Written from Corinth, toward the end of Paul’s 3rd missionary journey, c. AD 57
Key Verse
“For in the gospel the righteousness of God is revealed — a righteousness that is by faith from first to last, just as it is written: “‘The righteous will live by faith.’” — Romans 1:17 (NIV)
Paul’s Doctrinal and Practical Instruction
Structure of theology in Romans:
- Condemnation (Rm 1:18–3:20)
- Justification (Rm 3:21–5:21)
- Sanctification (Rm 6:1–8:39)
- Restoration (Rm 9:1–11:36)
- Application (Rm 12:1–15:13)
Unlike some of Paul’s other epistles, his purpose for writing was not to correct wrong theology or rebuke ungodly living. The Roman church was doctrinally sound, but was in need of the rich doctrinal and practical instruction this letter provides.
7 Day Reading Guide
(See 30-day guide below.)
- Day 1: Romans 1-2
- Day 2: Romans 3-5
- Day 3: Romans 6-7
- Day 4: Romans 8-10
- Day 5: Romans 11-12
- Day 6: Romans 13-14
- Day 7: Romans 15-16
Reaching New Believers
Paul’s primary purpose in writing Romans was to teach the great truths of the gospel of grace to believers who had never received apostolic instruction.
Access the rest of the series. Browse Bible studies for each book of the Bible. Or right-click on the infographic below to download and save the image for your reference.
Chris Fann is the Senior Digital Marketing Manager for Harper Christian Resources. He loves the smell ofa baseball glove, coffee, and old books. He lives in Grand Rapids, Michigan with his wife, 2 teenage boys, and their dog, Freya.