A SIMPLIFIED APPROACH OF THE BOOK OF ROMANS

(For Bible Study Purposes)

Prepared By: Rev. David E. Epelipcia

Background of the Book:

1. Sixth book of the New Testament
2. It is an Epistle to the Church
3. It is called a Traveling Epistle
4. It was written from Corinth (Achaia)
5. It was written approximately in 54 A.D
6. It was written to correct false teaching about salvation which confused the believers
of Christ at the Church in Rome.
 Legalizers were false teachers who teaches that salvation will be completed
by obeying the law particularly Circumcision – Acts 15:1
7. Theme of the book: How can a sinful be just with God or How can a sinful man go to
heaven.

Background of the Founding of the Church:

Negatively:
The Roman Catholic tradition teaches that Peter was the one who founded the church
there and he became the bishop there from 42 A.D to 67 A.D.
1. There is no Biblical record that Peter went to Rome and founded the church there.
Peter was in Jerusalem according to the last record of the Bible concerning Him –
Acts 15:1-18; Gal. 1:18-23
2. He was an Apostle to the Jews and Rome was a Gentile City – Rom. 11:13; Gal. 2:7-8
3. Paul did not go there if Peter was already there – Rom 15:16-24. Since Apostle Paul
was ordained by God as an Apostle to the Gentiles so he went there & obeyed God’s
calling.
4. He was not included in the greetings of Paul – Rom. 16
5. Paul in his prison epistles (Ephesians, Philippians, Colossians, 1&2 Timothy and
Philemon) written during his imprisonment in Rome did not mention that Peter was
there or visited him in prison.

Positively:
It was founded by the Jews who were converted during the Day of Pentecost at the
preaching of Peter (Acts 2:10). They went back to Rome and started the church there. When
Paul wrote this letter in 54 A.D they have no pastor to defend & protect them from false
Teachers.
CENTRAL TRUTHS FROM THE BOOK:

The Book presents first the doctrine of Salvation & other teachings related to it. This section is
called Doctrinal – Rom. 1-11. Secondly, the book presents how Christians should live and
behave in the church and in the community as citizens. This second section is called Practical –
Romans 12-16. Paul uses the style of “DIATRIBE” presentations of these truths. He attacked the
enemies by anticipating questions or objections and refuted them. The scene is somewhat in
the courtroom. The Legalizers as the prosecutors and Paul as the defendant.

Section 1 – The Introduction – 1:1-17 Memory Verse: 1:16

1. Writer of the Letter: Paul 1:1-2
a. Servant of Jesus Christ
b. Called as an Apostle
c. Separated purposely for the Gospel
2. Person of the Letter: Jesus Christ – 1:3-6
a. Son of David – King v.3
b. Son of God – God v.4
c. Source of Apostleship – v.5
d. Source of Salvation – v.6
3. Recipient of the Letter: Believers of the church at Rome – 1:7-9
a. Beloved of God – v.7
b. Called Saints – v.7
c. Faith is well known – v.8
d. Paul prayed for them – v. 8,9
4. Paul’s plan for going there – 1:10 -17
a. God will give him a good journey – v.10
b. He will teach Christians to grow – vv. 11-12
c. He will preach Jesus there both for Jews & Gentile – vv.13-17
 He was not ashamed
 It can save
 It is the only way of salvation

Questions for Review:

1. What was Paul’s main purpose of writing the Letter?
2. Who are the Legalizers or False teachers?
3. What are the reasons that Peter never became the Pastor of the Church?
4. How Paul described the church members of Rome?
5. Why Paul will preach the Gospel there?
 Section II: The Condition of the Gentile People
Romans 1:18-32

INTRODUCTION: Before Paul will display the true way of salvation, he describes first the true
condition of people whom God wanted to save. In order for them to appreciate & appropriate
this salvation, Paul painted & laid down first the dark background of humanity. He divided the
world into two groups – JEWS & GENTILES.

THE DEVOLUTION OF THE GENTILE PEOPLE

I. INTELLIGENCE - 1:18-20
Human history began with man worshiping God. God revealed himself through nature or
creation. God gave man the intuitive faculty to know Him & worship Him. It is a direct or
special intelligence to know Him & be conscious of Him. This knowledge would result in
WORSHIPPING HIM. But what was the result or response of man to that knowledge? Man
take for granted that knowledge. He deliberately denied & was not convicted of the truth
(v.18). He turned the truth into a lie. Knowledge of God that does not result in obedience &
recognition of Him turns into Ignorance & finally inability to discern.

II. IGNORANCE - 1:21-23

Man who is supposed to be a worshipper became a philosopher. Refusing to recognize &
worship God, he was left without God. Man having the intuition to worship God must now
worship something. Man made his own gods and worship them. This is purely human
religion. Since in the beginning Satan wanted to be worshipped & at this time he got it (1
Cor. 10:19-20)

6 Downward Steps of Man – 1:21-23

1. Refused to honor Him as God
2. Unthankful
3. Became foolish
4. Senseless & darkened
5. Self-acclaimed wisdom
6. Became idolatrous

Principles & Applications

1. The Folly of replacing God with Idols (Psalms 115)
2. Man replaced God with worship of success, prosperity and wealth
3. Man demoted God by elevating their own philosophies
4. Man ignored God by devoting himself to family, carrier and pleasure.
QUESTION IN RELATION TO IDOLATRY

1. Does the Bible say that we will have another God before Him? Ex. 20:3; Deut. 5:7
2. Are idols called gods? Psalm 96:5
3. Can we read from the Bible that all things graven from silver, gold & wood in the likeness of
man which he did not commanded are idols? Isa. 48:5, 46:6-7, 44: 9, 10, 13, 42:8; Jer. 50:38;
Rev. 9:20
4. Can we read from the Bible that the purpose of making of making images is for worship?
Isa. 44:15, 17-19, 2:8
5. Can we read from the Bible that to call an idol is one of the ways of praying & worshipping?
Isa. 46:6-7, 44:10, 15, 17, 48:5
6. Can we read from the Bible that even just in looking to Idols is an abomination? Ezek. 18:12
7. Can we read from the Bible that to pray, bow, kiss and image is worship? 1 Kings 19:18
8. Can we please God by making graven images? Isa. 45:6-8
9. Are graven images useless or useful? Isa. 44:9-10
10. What will be the religion of anti-christ and his followers in the last days? Rev. 9:20, 13:14-18
11. Who is behind the idols? 1 Cor. 10:19-20
12. What is the command of God, to make or not to make idols? Ex. 20:4-5; Deut. 4:16, 5:8,
23:24
13. What is the command of Apostle John? I John 5:21

Note: Even the apocryphal books prohibits & denounces the making & worshipping of graven
images. Baruch 6:45-72; II Mac. 12:39-42.
III. INDULGENCE – vv.24-27

Indulgence – Freedom to all things for the gratification of human desires & pleasures.

a. Idolatry – anything in between of man & God which man gives priority. Prominent in the
Bible is the worship of graven images. Vv. 21-23, 25
b. Homosexuality – vv. 24, 27
c. Lesbianism – v.26
Paul called this kind of practice as vile (unnatural) & shameful. This kind of sexual
perversion is explicitly condemned in the Bible, Gen. 18:20, I Cor. 6:9-20, Jude 7, I Kings
15:12, 14:24, 22:46
d. Immorality – v. 29 – All forms of sexual sins committed outside of marriage
e. Wickedness – v.29 – All forms of evil
f. Covetousness – v.29 – Intense desire to possess things possessed by others.
g. Maliciousness – v.29 – doing evil to someone despite the good received from that
person.
h. Envy – v.29 – Not happy of the success of others
i. Murder – v.29 – Planned killing
j. Strife – v.29 – Bitter conflict
k. Deceit – v.29 – To trick and mislead by lying
l. Malignity or Evil-mindedness – v.29 – Always entertaining & welcoming evil things
m. Whisperers – v.29 – Spreading false news or tale bearing
n. Backbiters – v.30 – To tear down the character of a person to others.
o. Haters of God – v.30 – No love for God & things which pleases God
p. Violent – v.30 – Undisciplined
q. Proud – v.30 – A man who self-centred or egocentric
r. Boaster – v.30 – Proud of things they do not have
s. Inventors of Evil things – v.30 – False witness
t. Disobedient to parents – v.30 – Disregarding parental authority
u. Undiscerning – v.31 – No fixed conviction on morality
v. Covenant breakers – v.31 – No word of honor
w. Unloving – v.31 – Insensitive to the needs & feelings of others.
x. Unforgiving – v.31 – Cannot forgive the sins of others.
y. Unmerciful – v.31 – Does not show care & concern for others.

Man’s Estimation of Sin (Moral Alternatives)

1. Statistical morality – it is alright because everybody is doing it.
2. Emotional Morality – I do not feel whether it right or wrong
3. Situational Morality – Sin is according to the situation. It is relative. Justifying the means
by the end.
4. Sensitive Morality – It might hurt somebody. No absolute standard.
God’s Estimation of Sin

The Gentile world is spiritually and morally corrupt. The Judgment of God to the
Gentiles is DEATH – 1:32.

Summary of Section II

1. The Gentiles were given intelligence to know God & worship Him
2. The Gentiles failed to worship God, instead made their own gods
3. The gentiles devolved & became indulgent
4. God looked at them as sinners
5. God’s Judgment & their destination is death & hell

Questions for Review

1. Who are the people described in Romans 1:18-32?

2. Why should the Gentiles worship God?
3. Described the folly of idolatry in Psalm 115
4. What is the root cause of indulgent life?
5. What is the description of idol worshippers?
6. What is the ultimate end of the Gentile people?
 Lesson 3 – The Condition of the Jewish People
Romans 2: 1-29

Introduction: In chapter 1, Paul painted the picture of the human heart apart from God. The Gentile
people have no good works to present to God so that God will save them. Paul is addressing to the new
audience in this section. The Jews were called Moralists. The nodded when Gentiles were confirmed as
sinners and judged by God. Paul anticipated this kind of attitude. Paul rebuked them and unveiled to
them their true spiritual condition. Paul showed to them the basis of God’s judgement.

I. God will judge them according to TRUTH – 2:1-3

There will be no double standards. Truth means actual facts or seeing things as
they are.

WHAT THE JEWS BELIEVED:

a. They are righteous
b. Only Gentiles will go to hell
c. God will judge differently
d. They will escape God’s Judgements

Truth: God will judge according to what he sees not according to who
He sees.

II. God will judge according to RIGHTEOUSNESS – 2:5-11

God is looking to people and not at their set standard but according to His
standard which is His Holiness. Since God is a Holy God, He will deal people
according to His Holiness.

SINFUL ATTITUDES GOD HATES:

a. Hardness & impenitent (unrepentant or walang pagsisisi) heart – v.5
b. Contentious (Palatutol – Causing or to cause an argument;
controversial) – v. 8
c. Disobedient to truth – v.8

GOD’S RESPONSE TO SINFUL ATTITUDES:

a. Indignation – v.8
b. Wrath – v.8
c. Tribulation – v.9
d. Anguish – v.9

GOOD ATTITUDES GOD DESIRES:

a. Doing good – vv.7,10
b. Hearing the law – v.13
c. Doing the law – v.13
 GOD’S RESPONSE TO GOOD ATTITUDES:
a. Glory – vv.7, 10
b. Honor – vv.7, 10
c. Immortality – v.7
d. Eternal life – v.7
e. Peace – v.10
f. Justification – v.13

III. According to their sinful condition evident in their works – 2:6, 11

God has no favouritism. He will deal both Gentiles & Jews according to their
sinful attitude.

IV. God will judge according to their SECRETS – 2:16

WHAT THE JEWS ARE PROUD OF:

a. Trust in the law - v.17
b. Believed in one God - v.17
c. Know God’s will - v.18
d. Teacher of the law - vv. 18, 20-23
e. Guide of the blind - v. 19
f. Light to those who are in darkness - v.19
g. Circumcised - v.25

WHAT THE JEWS VIOLATED:

a. Broken the law - v.23
b. Blaspheme the name of God - v. 24

The Jews try to argue that God will not judge them for they are Jews, they
are the covenant people. They tried to raise question to further their
arguments that they could escape God’s judgement – 3:1-8. Paul was trying
to fit his arguments with their belief (both Jews & Gentiles) that good works
or obedience to the law is necessary for salvation. He showed them that
they are wrong.

Summary of Lesson 3

Paul was trying to impress upon the Jews who believed that obedience to the law is important
for salvation. Since God is a Holy God, obedience to the law and good works are obligated upon them.
God hates sin and desire good attitudes from them. The law was given for them to obey, but the Jews
come short of God’s expectations. Their good works & obedience to the law are not enough to bring
them to heaven. Like Gentiles in chapter 1, they are also sinners and under God’s judgement. They were
also guilty like Gentiles in rejecting God’s word. Their self-righteousness is condemned. Their standards
are not enough.
Lesson 4 – The Conclusion of the Spiritual Condition of Jews & Gentiles
Romans 3:10-20

Introduction: Rom 3:1-8

The Jews still argue that God will not judge them. It is God’s covenant of Abraham (Gen. 12 &
15) and not their conduct is the basis of their salvation. No matter how they live, God remains faithful &
their unfaithfulness shows God’s faithfulness. How can God judge them when they are helping God (The
means justify the end). Paul is arguing that their logic is wrong (The end will not justify the means). As
God’s covenant people, Abraham’s circumcised seed, there is no comparison with the Gentiles is
legitimate. Paul closes the discussion by presenting the condition of both Jews and Gentiles not
according to the standard of man but God. Paul is looking to mankind through the Holy eyes of God.

3 General Descriptions of Man’s Sinfulness:

I. Man is sinful in character v.10-12

a. None is righteous - v.10
b. None understandeth God - v.11
c. None seeketh after God - v.11
d. All turned aside - v.12
e. All are unprofitable - v.12
f. None is doing good - v.12

II. Man is sinful in speech v.13-14

a. Graveyard’s throat - v.13
b. Deceitful tongue - v.13
c. Poisonous lips - v.13
d. Cursing mouth - v.14

III. Man is sinful in conduct v.15-18

a. Swift feet (murder) - v.15
b. Destructive ways - v.16
c. Unknown peace - v.17
d. No fear of God

Paul’s Comments on Man’s Sinfulness – v.19-20

1. Stop saying that your good works can save you

2. Accept that all are guilty before God.
3. No one could obey all the commandments
4. The law is telling us that we are all violators.
 Summary of Lesson 4

No one could pass God’s standard if going to heaven is obeying the law or good works. Paul
clearly painted the dark situation of the whole humanity who believes that their works could bring them
to heaven. We cannot cleanse ourselves from sin by our own good works. They are not enough.
 Lesson 5 – How Can A Sinful Man Go To Heaven?
(God’s Provision for Salvation)
Rom. 3:21-31

Introduction: The finest, formal & theological definition of the teaching of salvation is given in this
lesson. In Rom. 1:17-3:1-20 the Gentile & Jewish world is in darkness. It is a sin-dominated scene. The
whole being of man is penetrated by sin. Man’s good works cannot reach the standard of God for
salvation. The whole human race is destined for judgment or hell. In Rom. 3:21, there is a conjunction of
contrast “BUT”. This is the heart of the Epistle. This is the good news or gold section. This is the HOPE
section. If there are only 6 verses to be left & the rest of the Bible be destroyed, this section will be
chosen most. It answers the most important in life, WHAT MUST I DO TO BE SAVED?

I. WHAT SALVATION IS NOT (Negatively Considered) – v.21

NOT BY OBEYING THE LAW (Good Works). The law here does not only refer to the
10 Commandments but also to all kinds of good works that religion requires its
members to do to gain merits for salvation. It is FAITH to good works that can save
them.

Examples:
1. Baptism
2. Circumcision
3. Sacraments
4. Ceremonies
5. Rituals
6. Sacrifices
7. Prayers
8. Almsgiving
9. Going to Church
10. Ascetism
11. Indulgences
12. Tithing
13. Prayers for the dead

Note: These are good things, but they cannot saves us.
II. WHAT SALVATION IS (Biblically Considered)
A. It is by Grace for it is given freely as a gift V. 24
i. Christ worked for it - John 9:4
ii. Christ paid it by His blood - 1 Peter 1:18, Eph. 1:7, Col. 1:14

B. It is to be received by FAITH V.22, 29-31

Faith means it is a commitment to transfer your confidence to Christ. Faith is a
common denominator. All could avail salvation through this way. What happens the
moment a person will transfer his faith to Christ?
a. God is propitiated - v.25
b. A sinner (slave) is redeemed - v.24
c. A guilty is justified & made righteous - v.24
d. All sins are forgiven - v.25
e. No more boasting - v.27
f. The Law is fulfilled - v. 31

C. It is to be done NOW.
II Cor. 6:2, Heb. 10:25, Rom. 10:9-10

Salvation is a present reality. To be saved is not later but a present and once for all a
commitment to Jesus Christ.

Sinner’s Prayer (Rom. 10:9-10)

“Father, I am a sinner. I repent from all my sins. I want now to transfer my faith
on what Christ has done in the cross of Calvary for my salvation. I will receive you
into my heart as my personal Lord & Savior. Amen”

D. It guarantees assurance NOW.

Assurance of salvation (Eternal security) is a guarantee that all who professed to
receive Christ knew that any time they will die their souls will go to heaven.
Eternal security is a truth well supported by the Scriptures.

WHY SALVATION IS SURE NOW

a. Salvation is promised by God
Titus 1:2, Heb. 11:6, 9, 12-13, 15-18
God will not & could not lie. If He would, He will be no more
God – He promised eternal life (I John 5:10-13) for those who
will receive Christ. This promise can be appropriated NOW. (I
Cor. 6:2)
b. Salvation is perfected by Jesus Christ – John 19:30, Heb. 10:4-7, 10,
11, 16; 7:18-19, 27-28; 9:24-26

The Good news is completed when Christ died for our sins, buried
and rose from the dead (I Cor. 15:1-4)
 FINISHED – “TETELESTAI” (Greek). For the sculptors & farmers, it
means complete, no more addition or subtraction. For the
businessmen, it means fully paid, no more balance or remaining.

Salvation is sure now for it is based on the finished work of Jesus

Christ and not on our daily works or endeavours.

c. Assurance of Salvation is proven by the Scriptures

The best evidence of eternal security is the Bible itself. All human
arguments against it should be rejected once the truth of it is
sufficiently backed up by the Scriptures.

1. Eternal Security taught in the Book of Romans

a. No more condemnation - 8:1
b. No more separation - 8:38-39
c. God’s plan of salvation for each believer is finished already
– 5:1, 8:30 – (called, justified, glorified)

2. Eternal Security taught in other Books

a. I shall never perish - John 10:27-28
Eternal security is a glorious fact not a conditional life. This
promise is to the living. We are secured not because we are
holding on to Christ but Christ and the Father is holding us.

b. Sealed by the Holy Spirit - Eph. 1:13-14; 4:30

Sealed is a mark or a print which signifies the following:
i. Ownership – II Tim. 2:19, I Cor. 6:19-20
God owns already our souls
ii. Finished Transaction – Jer. 32:10-12
e.g – seal in Diploma, in permits and legal
documents
iii. Security – Esther 8:8, Matt. 27:66
e.g – seal in products and in mail

c. Kept by the power of God

I Pet. 1:5, II Tim. 1:12, Phil. 1:6, Jude 24, John 17:11-12

d. I have Eternal Life – John 3:16-18, I John 5:11-13

If Eternal Life is lost it is no more eternal.

e. Salvation is a gift to be received by FAITH

Rom. 6:23, 3:24, 27-28, Eph. 2:8-9, Titus 3:25
 If salvation is a reward or wage, no one can be sure of
his/her salvation. But since it is a gift, once you receive
it, it will be your own possession.

f. He has forgiven my sins (past, present, future)

Col. 2:13, Eph. 4:32, Rom. 3:25
Forgive – literally means “let it go”, “let it fly”, or erase

Description of God’s forgiveness

1. Cast all our sins into deepest sea
Mic. 7:19
2. As far as the East from the West
Psa. 103:12
3. He cast our sins behind His back
Isa. 38:17
4. He will remember our sins no more
Heb. 8:12, 10:17

g. I am now a child of God

John 1:12, Rom. 8:14, Gal. 4:6-7, 3:26
Sonship is a personal and permanent relationship.
1. Heaven is my Home
Phil. 3:20
2. Home in Heaven is my inheritance
Rom. 8:17
3. When I commit sin, He will just discipline me
Heb. 12:5-8

h. Name written in Heaven

Luke 10:20, Phil. 4:13, Rev. 13:8, 21:27, 20:15
(No Erasures)

i. My Body is the Temple of the Holy Spirit

I Cor. 6:19, 3:17, Rom. 8:9-11, John 14:16, 16:16
The Holy Spirit resides in my heart forever. If I commit
sins, I am just grieving Him but He will not go out from
me.

d. Assurance of Salvation is Present Reality

Examples of those having Eternal Security:
1. Paul – I Cor. 5:1, 8, Phil. 1:21-23
2. David – Psa. 116:15, 23:6
3. Job – Job 19:25
4. Thief – Luke 23:43
 Lesson 6 – Examples of People Saved By Faith
Rom. 4:1-25

Introduction:
Paul vividly stated that all are sinners and guilty before God. But God provided salvation through
faith in what His Son did on the cross of Calvary (3:20-31). He will justify guilty sinners through the
accepted sacrifice of Christ. This kind of teaching of salvation by faith only is startling and shocking
during the first century (even until now) particularly for the Jews, unbelievable. And they would ask,
how can you prove that? Can you give proofs of example that there are people who are now in heaven
because of their faith only? In this chapter, Paul gave further proofs of salvation by faith by using two
important Jewish personalities so dear and well – respected of them, Abraham, the father of Jewish race
and David, their greatest king.

Analogy:
As the English people respect the memory of Winston Churchill and Americans respect Abraham
Lincoln, the Jewish race pays so much respect to Abraham and David. What was good enough for these
two men was good enough for the entire nation.

I. The Description of Abraham’s Salvation – vv. 1-5, 9-25

A. He was justified by faith not by works – 1-5
1. It is witnessed by the Scriptures.
Romans 4:1-3 is the account in Genesis 15. Abraham defeated 4 kings in
rescuing Lot. After the victory he was thinking that they might return and fight
again. God appeared in a vision assuring him that He is his shield and reward.
But the thing that he wanted most is to have a son. God promised him a son
(15:6). That moment he believed in the true God and was saved.

2. It was his faith that salvation was deposited into his account – v. 5
ACCOUNT – a banking term which mean “put on one’s account”. You work and
the salary is put into your account. Abraham did not work to be saved but he
just believed in God and his faith was deposited for his salvation. God put our
sins in Christ’s account so that Christ’s righteousness will be put in our account
by faith only and we are saved.

3. His faith saved Him when He was ungodly – v.5

God saw nothing good in him so that God will save him. It was in his state of
being ungodly when God saved him. (Luke 19:10, Matt. 9:12-13)

4. He has nothing to boast in heaven because he was saved by faith in Christ’s

account.

B. He was justified by Grace not Law – vv. 9-17 (Gal. 3:1-6)

The Law came more than 400 years after him (Moses).
 C. He was justified before he was circumcised – v. 10-11
Genesis 15:7 – he was about 65 years old when he believed in God and was saved.
Genesis 17:1, 24 – He was 99 years old when he was circumcised. He was saved long
before he was circumcised. Circumcision was just an evidence of his faith in God.

D. He was saved before he offered Isaac.

Some argued that the offering of Isaac was the reason of his justification. When
Isaac was born (Gen. 21:5), Abraham was about 100 years of age. When he offered
Isaac, he was about 106–108-year-old. Like circumcision, the offering of Isaac is just
an evidence of his faith in God.

E. He is called the Father of Faith not Works – v.11

He was saved by believing God’s promise of a son (vv. 16-20). God delayed the
giving of Isaac to permit their natural strength to decline and disappear. He was 99
years old and Sarah was 89 years old. In the reproduction point of view both of
them were dead. The womb of Sarah was a tomb but out of it came life. God will
wait a sinner to recognize his nothingness. God then will release his saving power in
response to our faith. Abraham saw Christ through Isaac (John 8:56).

F. The promise of salvation is not through the Law but Faith – vv. 13-15
The Law promised wrath of sin not salvation. If salvation is through the law then
there is no need for the promise of the Redeemer.

Paul’s Application – vv. 23-25:

This kind of salvation (by faith only) is not only for Abraham but for everyone
who will believe that Jesus died for our sins, was buried and resurrected to give us
the complete salvation.

II. Description of David’s Salvation – 4:6-8

A. He lived under the law (1090 B.C) but was not saved through obedience to the law
(Psa. 32:1-2)
B. He broke the Law – v. 7
Iniquities means lawlessness.
C. His sins were forgiven and covered – v.7
D. God will never see (impute) sin in him – v. 8
E. Salvation by faith brought blessedness which works could not supply – vv. 6,8
 Lesson 7 – The Complete Blessings of Justification by Faith
Rom. 5:1-11

Introduction: Paul has proven that salvation is by faith as illustrated in the life of Abraham and David. No
doubt they were convinced of this truth. But Paul was anticipating more questions from them. They will
argue that going to heaven is yet future. But how about now and here. What other benefits or results
faith in Christ will bring now while we yet here?

TRUTH: many do not believe in the religion of hereafter. They said it is just a “PIE INT THE SKY”. What
they are concerned is the NOW and HERE of their lives.

In this lesson, Paul is giving the extra or other benefits of salvation by faith that each believer will enjoy
NOW and HERE.

I. Peace with God – v.1

In Eden, man ran away from God. He became alienated and an enemy of God. There is
no indication that he will turn to God thus, left himself to Satan. Since he became a
sinner God will judge him. But God could not afford to leave man in that state. He sent
His Son and died on the cross on the condition that He alone should be received to
achieve peace.
ALL ARE SINNERS – Declaration of War
BEING JUSTIFIED BY FAITH – Declaration of Peace

Illustrations:
1. During the Vietnam War, Americans fled to Canada to avoid being drafted. It was a
rebellion to the law. At the time of President Ford, he offered amnesty plan for
them to return to their land. THE WAR WAS OVER.
2. Modern Crucifixion for Peace in January 30, 1978 by Patrice Tarnao of Sto. Domingo,
Dominican Republic. He will be crucified for 48 hours to attain world peace and
understanding among men (during the Middle East War). Millions watched and
waited for the event. His crucifixion lasted only for 20 hours because of infection.
Headlines and tabloids next day: Crucifixion for Peace Fall Short.

TRUTHS TO BELIEVE:
1. No more hostility between us and God
2. No more sin blocking our relationship
3. A new relationship has been established.

The readers were acquainted with PAX ROMANA or Roman peace enforced by
Roman powers. Christ is offering everlasting peace – John 14:27.
II. Access into His presence – v.2
ACCESS – allowed to enter or Road Right of Way.
The Jews were kept from God’s presence by the veil of the Temple. The Gentiles were
kept out by the wall of the temple. But His death (Luke 23:45, Eph. 2:14) has broken
down the wall of partition. Christians could enter the presence of God all the time in the
name of Jesus no matter how we look.
A. We could worship God directly - Heb. 10:19-22
B. We could pray to God directly - Heb. 4:15-16

III. Hope – v. 2,3 – Col. 1:27, Titus 2:13

Peace takes care of the Past
Access takes care of the Present
Hope takes care of the FUTURE
For the Greeks, hope is a certainty. It is a confident expectation that the promise
of the future will happen in a hundred percent certainty. Christians have a future to look
forward to, the sharing of God’s glory in heaven.

IV. Triumph in Troubles – v.4

The statements, “We joy in troubles” and “Glory in Tribulations” are not an indication of
the sick mind. Justification is not an escape from the trials in life. But it works for Him
not against Him. No amount of trials could separate us from God, but instead it brings us
closer to Him.

A. Why We Triumph in Troubles – I Pet. 1:6-7

1. They are Temporary – v.6
2. They are Treasures – v.7
3. They are Transforming – v.7

B. Results of Troubles – 5:3-11

1. Patience – it is enduring and accepting a difficult situation without giving God a
deadline.
2. Experience or Character – suffering is like a pressure put on carbon to produce
diamonds.
3. Hope – a confidential expectation that everything is under control. Tribulation is
from the Greek word “Tribulon” which is a heavy piece of timber with spikes
used in crushing grain separating it from the chaff.
4. God’s love within – as we hope for the trials to pass by we are assured of God’s
love. He died before for us when we were:
a. Without strength
b. Ungodly
c. Sinners
Therefore If God can save the enemies, much more He can keep His friends.
5. Deliverance from Wrath – vv.9-10
 He died down here to save us, He lives up there to keep us saved. He will come
again to take us. The love that caused Christ to die is the same love that sent the
Holy Spirit to live in us. This love will help us meet the challenges in this life until
He will call us to glory.
6. Joy in God – v.11

Knowledge of these extra blessings and justification by faith will cause to rejoice
in God. True Christians are most joyful people.
 Lesson 8 – Contrasts of Adam and Christ
Rom. 5:12-21

Introduction:
We usually remember people either with bad or good influences.
Electric bulb - Thomas Alva Edison
Airplane - Orville and Willbur Wright
Printing Press - Johannes Guttenberg
Romans 5:12-21 is an illustration used by Paul of the two greatest influences in all history. This
closes the section of justification by faith. The readers will be able to evaluate where they belong. For
those who have put their faith in Christ alone will be assured that they belong to the Safe Side. But it till
be a warning for those who insist that salvation is by works that they are in the Danger side (in Adam).

I. In Adam – What things did Adam do to mankind?

A. Sin Entered into the World – v.12
Adam was the embodiment of mankind. We came from Adam. When he sinned, we
sinned. In his fall, we sinned and fell all. His sin was imputed and passed on to us (sin
nature or old nature). We are all identified in him as sinners (in Adam).
False ideas about the origin and causes of sin (Sociologist View):
1. Environment – living in slum areas where people are poor and indulging in sin.
2. Lack of Education

Antidote: Provide the entire need of man and he will change and become a new
man. This is called holistic approach or social gospel.

TRUTHS:
1. Changing the environment and providing education will not make man new. You
make man a:
a. Psychiatrist – he will become an adjusted sinner
b. Physician – he will become a healthy sinner
c. Rich man – affluent sinner
d. Religious Man – he will become a religious sinner
2. Man inherited the sinful nature from Adam (Sinned, sins, sinners- 10x). we
traced back sin from Adam.

B. Death came to All – v.12 (Death, dies – 6x)

3 Kinds of Death:
1. Physical – it is the separation of soul and spirit from the body which causes
cessation of life here. (Gen. 5:5, 35:18)
2. Spiritual – separation of man from God. Man in Adam is separated from God
because of sin. This is the death that Jesus wanted to cure. (Gen. 2:17)
 3. Second death – eternal separation of man from God. (Rev. 20:14-15 – no
more cure)

Romans 5:13-14 – Paul was trying to prove that death is universal. All were
victims of death (before and after the law was given).

C. Disobedience Came – v.19

Adam was the representative of all law breakers. Even Adam failed to obey one law
(Gen. 2:16-17). Like Adam, we are disobedient.

D. Judgement and Condemnation Came – v.18

We are condemned and judged to eternal punishment in Adam.

Summation:
By birth, we belong to Adam (not a choice) and we are in the Danger Side. This is the
main reason why Christ came and died to redeem us from the position in Adam.

II. In Christ – What things Christ did to Mankind who are all in Adam.
A. Righteousness Given – v.19
He is the one without sin and will give us His righteousness which He worked in the
cross of Calvary for us. Adam gave us his sin, Christ is giving us His righteousness.

B. Life Came – vv.13, 17

We died in Adam. He separated us from God (spiritual death). Jesus Christ is giving
life and reconciling us to the Father. This life is the cure of both the Spiritual and
Eternal or Second death.

C. Obedience Displayed – v.19

Christ followed His Father’s will to die for us. His death (obedience) brought life and
righteousness to us.

D. Justification Assured – vv. 16,17

In Adam we are declared guilty and condemned. Faith in Jesus Christ will make us
without sin.

MUCH MORE – (3x) vv. 15, 17, 30 – we gain more in Christ what we lost in Adam.

GRACE MUCH MORE ABOUNDED v.20 – the amount of sin that the law tells us that
we disobeyed are all covered by the abounding grace of Christ. Salvation from
Adam’s sin is not through the law but by faith in what Christ has done for us. It is
purely of Grace (v.21).
 TRUTH: The saving work of Jesus Christ by grace is much more wonderful than the
sinning work of Adam.

Summary of Lesson 8:

In Adam In Christ
1. Sin Inherited 1. Righteousness Given
2. Death Came 2. Life Given
3. Disobedience Displayed 3. Obedience Sustained
4. Judgement and Condemnation 4. Justification and Salvation

HELL – Danger Side HEAVEN – Secured Side

 Lesson 9 – Salvation By Faith Can Not Be Abused
Rom. 6:1-23

Introduction:
After presenting the blessings of salvation by Faith and our now position in Christ which assures
us of His abundant grace that could forgive and save every vile sinner. The false teachers goes on with
their next argument: If God’s grace is abundant to save us despite of our sins, then we will just keep on
sinning because salvation is by Faith only. This kind of salvation will lead to Antinomianism or
lawlessness.
Paul in this section defended this truth. Salvation by faith will not and cannot lead us to be
lawless. Paul is presenting us his position of this truth. He introduced this section by asking question.
(v.1)

I. The Believer KNOWS His Position in Christ – vv. 3-8

A. We are identified in Jesus Christ – v.3-4
1. In His Death
2. In His Resurrection

B. We have New Life in Christ – v.4

C. We are Dead to Sin – vv. 2, 3, 6-8

Analogy - A dead person could never commit sin.

D. We are Alive Unto God – vv. 8-10

II. The Believer RECKONS His Position in Christ – v. 11

RECKON (40x in the N.T. – 9x in Romans)
- To put into one’s account. An event which occurred that you may make it your own
experiences or possession.

Christ died, buried and resurrected having a new life. Reckoning our position in Christ is a
deeper understanding and commitment of the gospel. Since Jesus Christ completed the
work of defeating sin, Christians should make the same commitment.

III. The Believer YEILDS His Body to Christ – vv. 13, 16, 19
YIELD – to place at one’s disposal. To present, offer or sacrifice. This is putting into action
the KNOWING and RECKONING of our position on Christ.

A. What are We to Yield? V.13

Members of Our Body – all parts of our body. Our body as the result of the fall became
the tool of Satan against God (e.g. eyes, ears, nose, hands, feet, appetite, mouth,
tongue, etc.). Yielding means letting Christ then use our body parts as instruments (tool
use for warfare) against Satan instead.
 The Importance of our Body for God:
1. It is his Temple – I Cor. 6:19, Phil 1:20-21
2. It is his Tool in building His Kingdom
3. It is His Tool against Satan

B. How are We to Yield? Vv. 14-23

Final and Complete Surrender (Tenses of the Verb) – Do not constantly allow sin to reign
in your mortal body so that you are constantly obeying the lust. Neither yield constantly
members of your body as weapons of unrighteousness to sin. But once and for all yield
yourselves unto God.

C. Why are We to Yield? Vv.14-23

1. The favor that we received – vv. 14, 15
Salvation by Grace – a sense of gratitude. Salvation by law or good works has no
favor received.

2. The freedom that Christ granted – vv.16-20

2 Masters (Servant – Master Relationship)
a. Satan (in Adam) – Before – Unbelievers
- Sin unto death v.16
- Servants to uncleanness v.19
- Servants of sin v.20
b. God (in Christ) – Now – Believers
- Obedience unto righteousness v. 16
- Servants of righteousness vv. 18,20
- Freedom to righteousness v.20

TRUTHS:
a. If you are enthusiastic in serving your master before, be more with your
new master now.
b. I want to be a good saint now, as I was a good sinner before.

3. The Fruit of Our Salvation – vv. 21-23

DEATH – the fruit of salvation by works
HOLINESS and EVERLASTING LIFE – the fruits of salvation by faith
 Lesson 10 – Salvation is Impossible through the Law
Rom. 7:1-25

Introduction:
The Purpose of the Law was not grasped by the legalizers. If it was not a means of salvation,
then what was its intention? Paul in this section is showing that the law was meant to show man the
indwelling principle of sin. It disenables man to perfectly meet the absolute holiness of God and
necessitates regeneration which brings the indwelling of the Holy Spirit making us righteous. Paul is
giving us His personal experience of the law which he believed before that could save him.

I. Illustrated by the Law of Marriage – 7:1-6

A. Declaration of the Law of Marriage – vv. 1-2
WIFE – represents sinful humanity seeking for salvation
HUSBAND I – represent the Law or salvation by works. The wife is obligated to obey as
long as she lives. This husband has the right and jurisdiction over the wife v.1.

Point of the Analogy: A sinful person (Wife) who adopts salvation by obeying the law
(Husband I) is married to it. He could not add another way of salvation (Husband 2) for
he is bound to it (v.2). A person cannot be saved by Faith plus works (11:6).

B. Death of One Party – vv. 3-6

The wife could remarry (to Husband 2) if the first husband dies or the wife herself dies
and resurrects. Death is one of the ways to end marriage relationship.

Point of Analogy:
1. The Law (Husband 1) is considered dead, when a person (wife) completely
understood that it cannot save. The wife then could look for another husband
(v.4).
2. When a person received Jesus Christ as Savior (Husband 2), he is dead to the
law (Husband 1) but resurrected to marry to the new husband (Jesus Christ).
Believers Position (v.4a) – Death with Christ
Reasons for Position (v.4b) – Joined to Christ
3. The Law (Husband 1) killed the wife (vv. 5, 9-10) but was made alive by Jesus
Christ – joined to him (Husband 2).

C. The Deliverance of the Wife – v.4

Husband 2 – Jesus Christ whom the wife remarries (II Cor. 11:2, Rom. 10:4).
The wife now is delivered from the demands of Husband 1 which she could not fulfil.

Point of Analogy: Faith alone in Jesus Christ can set free a sinful man who is seeking
salvation by good works.
 D. The Devotion of the Wife – vv.4, 6
The wife now serves Husband 2 out of love and not out of fear.

II. Misunderstands the Purpose of the Law – vv. 7-24

A. Description of the Law
1. Holy – v.12
2. Just – v.12
3. Good – v.12
4. Spiritual – v.14

B. Purpose of the Law

1. To reveal sin – vv. 7-8
2. To reveal judgement – v. 9-11
The law was given not to save man but to punish man.
3. To reveal our failure to obey – vv.14-24
SIN PROBLEM – it is the reason why we cannot obey the law.
Paul’s Declaration – he cannot obey the law to the letter: vv. 14-23
Paul’s Disgust – he is a sinful man – v.24

III. Necessitates the Need of the Savior – vv.24-25

A. Paul’s Question – Who can deliver from punishment – v.24
B. Paul’s Answer – God through Jesus Christ – v.35

Summary:

Paul clearly advocate that salvation is impossible through obedience to the law. There is no
problem with the law but there is great sin-problem in man that he could not obey the law. Even
Paul the best of the Pharisees yet failed to obey the law. Paul closes this section in bringing back
the readers to Jesus Christ who is the solution to the sin-problem in man.
 Lesson 11 – Magna Carta of Christian Freedom
Rom. 8:1-39

Introduction:
Chapter 7 closes with the truth that in Christ alone we have the salvation. Christ the husband 2
delivered the wife from the requirement that could not fulfil from husband 1. The wife now is
detached from husband 1 (law) but gained freedom in husband 2. This section tells us this great
truth of Christian freedom because of our faith in the Lord Jesus Christ.
In January 6, 1941, President F.D Roosevelt addressed U.S congress on the state of war in
Europe. May words were forgotten but he ended his speech by saying “I am looking forward to a
world founded upon 4 essentials of human freedom; Freedom of SPEECH, WORSHIP, WANT, and
FEAR.”
Romans 8 is the Magna Carta of Human Freedom. We are shackled by fear regarding our
destiny. Receiving Jesus Christ by faith alone can release us our fears.

I. Freedom From Destruction (vv. 1-4) - No More Condemnation

A. The Truth – v.1
The Conclusion – “Therefore”
The Declaration – “No More Condemnation”
The Means – “Through Jesus Christ”
The Time – “NOW”
The Evidence – “Living not in the flesh but in the Spirit” (good works)

B. The Description of the Law

1. Law of Sin and Death – v.2
2. It is Weak – v.3
3. The requirement is Perfection – v.4

C. Deliverance from Christ

1. Law of Spirit of Life – v.2
2. He condemned sin – v.3
3. Fulfilled (in our behalf) the requirements of the Law – v.4

II. Freedom from Defeat (vv. 5-17) – No more Communion (living in sin)
A. Our condition before we became Christians (vv. 5-9)
1. In the Flesh v.5 – The best of our life is toward fleshly satisfactions
2. Dead Spiritually v.6
Alive physically but dead spiritually
Moral & religious but lacks spiritual life
3. At war with God v.7
God is Holy and He hates sin
4. Pleasing self and not God v.8
5. Have not the Spirit of God. V9
 B. Our condition as Christians vv. 9-17
1. We have the Holy Spirit
a. Witness that we are God’s children v.16
b. Abiding in us as His temple – I Cor. 6:19-20
c. Sealing Us – Eph. 1:13-14
The assurance of salvation is the presence of the Holy Spirit inside us.
Our possession of Him make us alive.
2. The Holy Spirit in US vv. 12-13
He is possessing us.
3. No more death v.11
4. Children of God vv.14-16
5. No more slave to sin v.15
6. Adopted as His children v. 15
Adopted means considered as adult children this having all the legal rights as heirs.
7. We have and inheritance v.17
8. We call him Dear Father v.15
Christians are new in a new position of acting and living against sin.
Christians are assured of sure victory because are detached with our relationship to
the world. We live now in the Spirit and not in the flesh.

III. Freedom from Discouragement – vv.18-30 – No More Consternation

Paul is anticipating that the Church in Rome will undergo a severe persecution. Christians
will be terrified by suffering because of their faith in Jesus Christ. Although Paul here is
dealing with the problem of suffering but they should not be discourage. There is glory
awaiting for them.

A. Creation Groans vv. 20-22

GROANS – a response to suffering (3x – vv 22, 23, 26)
1. Creation is subjected to vanity v.20
2. Creation is in bondage to corruption v.21
3. Creation is subjected to disease and decay v.22
Adam and Eve were first polluters of environment by way of sin. The mother earth is
wearing down and leading to decay. NEW HEAVEN and NEW EARTH are the ultimate
hope of creation.

B. Christians Groan vv. 23-25

1. Physical Sufferings – Disease, Decay, Death and Defamation – v.23
2. Heavenly Hope – Redemption of our physical bodies and dignity through
resurrection – v.24
3. Attitudes toward sufferings – Perseverance and Patience v.26

C. The Holy Spirit Groans

1. The Holy Spirit shares with our feelings v.26 (Emphasize)
 2. The Holy Spirit intercedes for us vv. 26-27
3. The Holy Spirit comforts Christians vv.28-30
God’s Complete Plan of Salvation vv. 28-30
a. Foreknow – God know beforehand whom will be saved.
b. Predistinate – Those he know will be saved are destined for heaven
c. Called – He invites those he know and destined for salvation to receive Jesus
through the preaching of the gospel.
d. Justified – Those who received Jesus are declared not guilty and free from sin
e. Glorified – to honor, give special place and make beautiful. There will be no
more consternation for Christians by suffering because of the comfort of the
Holy Spirit. In God’s mind salvation in already a package deal.

IV. Freedom from Deception – vv.71-89 – No More Confusion

We are promised here of Eternal Security (Assurance of Salvation)
A. God is for Us v.31

B. Christ Died for us v.32

There is a basis for our claim of salvation.
FOR – benefactive preposition – “In behalf of”

C. God has justified us v.33

It is God himself who declare that we are not guilty in the merit of Christ. Satan and
people are accusing us but understanding justification brings peace to the heart.
CHOSEN – (EKKLEKTON) – transliteration from Greek to Latin into English ELECT.
ELECTION – God’s choice of individuals who will receive Christ for a specific purpose and
destiny.

D. Christ intercedes for Us v.34

He is our only and sure lawyer

E. We are more than conquerors v.37

Our Victory is already won.

F. No more Separation from God vv. 35, 38-39

Things that could not separate us from God:
1. Experience – v.35
Tribulation, Distress, Persecution, Famine, Nakedness, Peril, Sword

2. Time, Realm and Dominion – vv.38-39

Angels, Principalities, Powers, Things Present, Things to come, Height, Depth, and
other creature

3. Events – v.38
Death and life
Summary:
This is truly Magna Carta for Christian Freedom. The church in Rome is the only church that God
revealed clearly how a sinful man can go to heaven. This assurance is given not for the dead ones but for
the present membership. Who can dare change and challenge these truths? The true church of Rome
are saved people not because of the money rituals, ceremonies to fulfil and may saints to go but
because only by faith and acceptance and what Christ did in the cross of Calvary. God allowed this book
to be written to combat and rebut the pseudo church of Rome.
 God’s Complete Plan of Salvation for Israel Concluded
Romans 9 – 11

Introduction (Primarily Taken from Dr. John Wilson notes on Masteral subject, The Book of Romans,
ABTS, pp. 32-33).
Romans chapters 9-11 sometimes been regarded as parenthetic, somewhat disjoined from
Paul’s argument that Gentiles need not be circumcised, keep the Jewish law or become a Jew in order to
be saved (Acts 15: 1-5, Gal. 2:14). In Rom. 1:18-3: 1-20, Paul emphasized that both Jews and Gentiles are
sinners and need the righteousness from God and this righteousness is by faith in Christ’s atoning work
in Calvary, and that, circumcision, law keeping and being a progeny of Abraham have no part in this
salvation. SALVATION BY FAITH is God’s SOVEREIGN way of saving sinners (Rom. 3:21-5:1-21).
Justification by faith will not lead to lawlessness but instead fulfil righteousness demanded by law (Rom.
6). Paul presented the impossibility of salvation by the law by His personal testimony (Rom. 7) and
assured believers of eternal security and God’s faithfulness in times of present suffering (Rom. 8). BUT,
the Jews saw themselves otherwise as God’s chosen people (Matt. 3:9, John 8:39, 41). Their O.T.
traditions went back 1,500 years. The temple at the time of Paul was still standing (destroyed in 70 A.D.).
For them, Christ had never taught any Jew to abandon the law, THEREFORE, Paul’s insistence that they
were wrong in there way of salvation, equating them with Gentile sinners and much more implying that
there is no advantage of being a Jew in connection to their salvation (Rom. 3: 1-8). THEN, God had CAST
AWAY his chosen people (Rom. 11:1) and His promise of saving them has no effect (Rom. 9:6). These are
their last arguments raised against Paul Soteriology by faith. How could they (Israel) be wrong and Paul
right? Paul’s response to their premise is to demonstrate that being a circumcised progeny of Abraham
in no way guaranteed Jewish salvation (Rom. 9). Salvation by faith is clearly taught in O.T, Israel,
however turned away from this truth and established their own righteousness through obedience to the
law (Rom. 10:2-3). Although God hardened them foreseeing their unbelief and turned to the Gentiles
foreseeing their faith (Gal. 2:8, Acts 13:44-49) BUT will restore them nationally for their belief in the
future (Rom. 11). In these 3 chapters is the final conclusion of salvation by faith for the Jewish people.

I. The identity of Israel – Rom. 9:1-33

Paul’s Burden for Israel – 1-3
- He saw Israel like Gentiles as sinners and in need of the Saviour (Rom. 1:18-3:1-20).
- He saw Israel rejecting God’s way of salvation – (9:31-10:1-3)
- He wished if possible his reprobation in lieu of their individual salvation. It is a sincere wish but
an impossible one.

A. The Physical Identity of Israel – 4-5

1. Called Israelites (Gen. 32: 27-28). This is not only an identification with the new name of Jacob
but also the direct identification with Abraham.
2. Adopted as God’s people – it is a special filial relationship to God (Ex. 4:22-23, Deut. 14: 1-2, Isa.
63:16, 64:8, Hosh. 11:1, Mal. 1:6, 2:10), as contrasted to N.T adoption to be realized by personal
faith in Christ (Gal. 4:5, Eph. 1:5, John 1:12, 1John 3:1). O.T adoption supposed to be is
preparatory to N.T adoption.
3. Glory – Referring to the glories of God revealing not only His presence but also His Deity. The
glory of Moses (Ex. 24:16-17), Glory covering the top of the Holy of Holies of the Tabernacle or
Temple (Ex. 40:34-38, Lev. 16:2, I Kings 8:10-11, II Chron. 7:1-2).
4. Covenants – Primary Covenants are Abrahamic (Gen. 12:1-4, 15:1-21, 22:15-24), Mosaic (Ex.
2:24, 6:4-5, Deut. 8:18), Palestinian (Deut. 30:1-20), and Davidic (II Sam. 7:4-17, II Chron. 17:14-
15).
 5. Giving of the Law – Referring to Pentateuch or Torah and to the Decalogue in particular (Ex. 20).
6. Promises – Not only on the conditions for blessings of obeying the law (Deut. 12), But also
Messianic promises that would bring salvation (Rom. 4:9-25, Gal. 3:17-28).
7. Fathers – Only nation having a formal list in their founders, from Abraham to Joseph. They are
called also Patriarchs.
8. Christ coming from their race – Putting Christ last here is the intention to connect him to His
context of salvation by faith. As one writer said, “the foundation on which the whole work 8
redemption rests, the Apostle subjoins, Amen”! (Geofrey Wilson, Romans, p. 160).

V-6 – Is Paul’s answer to their argument, that since they are God’s chosen nation, God will save
them, if not as Paul is implying then, God’s Word becomes of no effect or just fall apart. God’s
Word here refers to the covenant of promise of saving them through the promised seed of
Abraham (Jesus). This promised of salvation is by faith (Promise is repeated in vv.8-9, Gal. 3:17-
25, Rom. 4:11-25). The truth of this is found in the phrase, “For they are not all Israel which are
of Israel”. Paul is telling them that God’s Word of promise of saving them did not fall apart, the
real problem is, that many of them changed God’s way of saving them, the very reason that God
rejected them. It is not God who rejected them, it was they who rejected God’s way of saving
them by faith through the promised Redeemer. G.B. Wilson said, “Rejection of the Jews involved
no failure on the Divine promise”. (G.13. Wilson, Romans, p 160). They could not charge God of
unfaithfulness, they just refused what God had provided them. This is a transition to farther his
Soteriology by faith which is the Sovereign will which they failed to grasped.

B. The True Spiritual Israel – 6-29

In order for physical Israel to be saved, they need to become true Israel. Paul is telling them that
God has his way making physical Israel to spiritual one. He was using the history of Israel as a proof of
who are the true Israel and how they became one. The real application of God’s Sovereignty in relation
to salvation consistent with holistic Scriptural Soteriology is vividly presented here. Two major questions
are answered here: 1.Who are the spiritual Israel? And, 2.How to become a spiritual Israel?

1. His Clarification – 6-8

Negatively – Jewish salvation is not based on being the physical descendants of
Abraham, being a Jew, Israelite and circumcised (Rom. 2:28-29). It is not all Israel (SEED
of Abraham, circumcised) are Israel (Spiritual “CHILDREN” of Abraham by faith and
circumcised in the heart).
Positively – Jewish salvation is based on being the spiritual descendants of Abraham.
Abraham was saved by faith (Gen. 15:1-6, Rom. 4-1-5, Gal. 3:6-9). To be the true
children of Abraham, every Jew should follow the salvation of Abraham (Gal. 2:7).
Abraham believed in God’s promised of a Son to be the Saviour of the world (Rom. 4:9-
25, Gal. 3:6-9). Paul traced the spiritual children of Abraham to prove that salvation by
faith is the true way of salvation.
2. His Illustration – 9-13
Who are the true spiritual descendants of Abraham (Israel according to the Spirit – Gal.
4:27-31, Israel of God – Gal. 6:16, circumcised in the heart – Rom. 2:29) who followed
the faith of Father Abraham? It was not Ishmael but Isaac (Different Mother). It was not
Esau but Jacob (Same Mother). Consistent with Pauline Soteriology, Ishmael and Esau
though sons of Abraham and were firstborn did not believe like Abraham, while Isaac
and Jacob became true Israel for they followed the faith of Abraham. They were saved,
chosen, elected because of their faith not their works. This choosing, saving or electing
 is in agreement of His sovereign plan or will that is faith in Christ or identification with
Christ. God knew already in eternity past those who will believe. This truth is not void of
Scriptural support.
- Eph. 1:4 – “Chosen in Him (Christ)”
- I Pet. 1:2 – “Elect according to the foreknowledge of God.”
- Rom. 8:29 – “For whom he did foreknow, he predestined.”
- Eph. 2:5, Col. 2:13 – “Quickened together with Christ.”
- Eph. 2:6 – “Raised us up together and made us sit together in heavenly places in
Christ.”
- II Thess. 2:13 – “Chosen you to salvation through sanctification of the spirit and
belief the truth.”
- Gal. 2:8 – “Foreseeing that God will justify the heathen thro’ faith.”
- John 10:14, 27 “I know my sheep.”
- John 6:64 – “For he knew from the beginning who will not believe.”
- Nah. 1:6 – “The Lord knoweth them that trust in Him.”
- Heb. 11:6 – “For without faith, it is impossible to please God.”
Esau was rejected (hated or love less will not mater) by God not based on his
sovereignty but of his rejection of God evidenced by his rejection of his birthright (Gen.
25:27-34, Heb. 12:16-17). God will not hate or love less without any reason as Paul
confirmed (Rom. 2: 8-9).
On the other hand, Jacob was received (loved) not by God’s sovereignty but faith. Jacob
although a supplanter, yet later repented and believed (Gen. 32:1-32). God will not save
(loved for salvation) without any reason (Rom. 2: 7-10). Both Isaac and Jacob were listed
in the heroes of faith (Heb. 11:20 -21). Although v-13 was quoted in Mal. 1:2, 3 and is
referring to their posterity, but consistent with the context of salvation by faith (who are
the true Israel?), suggests that what happened to Jacob and Esau will happen to their
posterity.

v-14 – The Jews will argue that rejection of Ishmael and Esau is unjust. Pauline
Soteriology is unrighteous because of the rejection of 2 Progenies of Abraham. Paul
continue to argue that there is no righteousness in God’s way of salvation by faith.

3. His Further Explanations – 14-18

 This passage does not teach unconditional Election and Mercy based on God’s
Sovereignty BUT Conditional Election and Mercy based on His Sovereign Terms or
Conditions (Foreseen obedience on His conditions). Paul was simply telling the Jews not
to expect mercy, compassion, salvation from God based on their Terms and Conditions
or will (Salvation through the law, circumcision and being the progeny of Abraham) BUT
on Terms and Conditions set by God written in His word (God’s will – Matt. 7:21, John
6:28, 29, 40). This passage does not teach unconditional Mercy but Mercy on God’s
Conditions as proven by these texts:
- Ex. 20:16 – And showing Mercy unto thousands of them that loved me and keep
my commandments.
- Deut. 7:9 – Which keepeth Covenant and Mercy with them that love him and
keep his commandments to a thousand generations.
- Isa. 55:7 – Let the wicked forsake his way and the unrighteous man his thoughts
and let him return unto the Lord and he will have Mercy upon him and
abundantly pardon.
 - Matt. 5:7 – Blessed are the Merciful for they shall obtain mercy.
- Luke 1:50 – And his mercy is on them that fear him…
- John 14:23 – … if a man love me, he will love my words and my father will love
him…
- I Tim. 1:13 – … but I obtained Mercy, because I did it unbelief
- Jer. 3:12 – … Return thou backsliding Israel … I will not cause my anger to fall
upon you: for I am Merciful … and will not keep my anger forever.
This salvation is not man’s will or idea but of God, the very conditions of his saving
grace, mercy and love (v-16). There is no implication here that God has created man for
the purpose of Saving and Reprobating unconditionally. The positive – positive view of
election teaches that God positively and actively intervenes in the lives of the elect to
bring them to faith. Likewise for none elect, He works evil and actively prevents from
coming to faith. This is called hyper-Calvinism, Double election or Supralapsarian view.
The REFORMED view which is Calvinistic is Positive – Negative Schema. According to R.C
Sproul, “in the case of the elect, God intervenes to positively and actively working grace
… and bring them to saving faith. He unilaterally regenerates the elect and insures their
salvation. In the case of the non-elect, he does not work evil to prevent them from
coming to faith, rather, he passes over them, leaving them to their sinful devices… the
reprobate, who are passed over by God are ultimately doomed and their damnation is a
certain and sure as the ultimate salvation of the elect.” (R.C. Sproul, Essential Truth of
the Christian Faith, pp. 165-166). This is the single election or Infralapsarian view. There
is no difference in this 2 views. Bypassing and leaving the reprobates and their
damnation in sure as the salvation of the elect is tantamount still to double election.
This kind of salvation is grossly unfair and the just God of the Bible will not do it, BUT
meeting God’s condition to be saved is in line with his moral attributes. According to
Norman Bartlet, “God reserves the right to deal with man on his unilateral condition not
man. It is God who sets the terms and man must obey his will … God rejected Ishmael
who rejected him.” (Norman Bartlet, Right On Romans, pp. 95-97)

NOTE: if unconditional election and mercy based on God’s Sovereignty was in the mind of Paul here,
then chapter 9:1-3 and 10:1-21 is out of place (no connection). If this is the way to become the true
Israel or Spiritual children of Abraham, there is no need for Paul to write the book of Romans and
Galatians to argue his thesis on salvation by faith versus by works. They should just wait for Gods
decision about their eternity.

 God rejects people according to his foreknowledge of their unbelief (17-18). He uses
Pharaoh farther as an illustration of those he will reject and harden. God already saw
that Pharaoh will harden his heart deliberately (Neh. 9:10) and in response, God made
his heart the same as Pharaoh did. God’s response to people, communities and
generations knowing their unbelief is judgement and condemnations.
- Pharisees and Scribes – Matt. 23:13-16.
- Jewish Generation at the time of Jesus – Matt. 12:41, 23:36, 11:16-26, Luke
17:25, 11:29-32, John 8:21-24, 9:39-40.
- Jewish Generation at the time of Isaiah and Jeremiah – Isa. 6:9-13, Jer. 5:14,
6:17-19.
- Chorazim, Capernaum, Bethsaida – Matt. 11:20-24.
- Judas Iscariot – Matt. 26:24-25
- Tribulation Period – II Thess. 2:10-12
 Pharaoh knew both the revelations and the special revelations through miracles (v.17)
BUT he chooses to reject God in unbelief, therefore God hardened his heart.
Summary (v-18) – God has His own Sovereign way in giving mercy for salvation and withholding mercy
for damnation. This is consistent with holistic teaching of the Bible – (Ezek. 33:9-20, Luke. 13:3, 5, John
1:12, 3:14-18, 36, 20:31, II Thess. 2:12)

v-19 – Expectedly, the Jews wishes to justify themselves and hold God as unjust (same argument at the
time of Ezek. 33:20). If it is God who hardens them, why blame them for unbelief? They uses the same
argument in 3:1-8 that their unbelief is helping God show his Faithfulness. They failed to grasped the
fact that their unbelief is the reason of hardening them. Their reprobation is not the product of God
hardening them BUT their unbelief of failing to subject themselves to God’s will of salvation.

4. God’s Sovereign Will of Salvation Will Prevail – 19-26

- Potter and Clay Illustration – NO one could question and change God’s way of saving
and reprobating. This way is absolute. God has the right to decide what to do with
the clay that will conform or not conform to his shaping (Believe and be honoured
or Reject and be dishonoured). The reason for honouring and dishonouring is not
arbitrary or just capricious sovereignty but simply belief or unbelief to his will. This
is well established in Potter and Clay analogy used by Paul taken originally in Jer.
18:1-12, 19:11, 15. The reason why the Potter (God) made the clay (Israel) into
another vessel (Dishonour) because the clay would not submit to the Potter’s plan
(Saving and Honouring). Paul is consistent with God here of the reason of saving and
Honouring (Abraham, Isaac, Jacob) or Damming and Dishonouring (Ishmael, Esau,
Pharaoh). God has all the power to execute his wrath to the unbelieving and Mercy
to the Believing. He already reminded the Jews of this early in this letter (Rom. 2:4-
11). The word “FITTED” (v.22) “KATERTIZO” is in the middle voice making it
“REFLEXIVE” action verb which literally means “FITTED HIMSELF” or by “CHOICE”
fitted himself. Paul was saying here that God endured with much “LONGSUFFERING”
in waiting for them to believe. If God fixed their reprobation, why suffer long for
them? Faith in Jesus is His sovereign way of saving both Jews and Gentiles (25-27)
and this is his eternal program prepared for both Jews and Gentiles (23-24, 28-29).
Who are we to question his way?
Conclusion: 30-33
1. Why the Gentiles were Saved? (30)
Answers: Not by unconditional election and mercy based on God’s Sovereignty BUT that they
SOUGHT Salvation by faith.
2. Why Israel were not saved? (Or become true Israel?). (32-33)
Answer: Not because they non-elected and not recipient of Mercy based on God’s
Sovereignty, BUT that the SOUGHT Salvation by the works of the law and STUMBLED to
Salvation by faith in Christ, thus did not follow the faith of Abraham (4:1-3, 10:1-3).