Introduction

Paul begins his explanation of the gospel by showing our need of salvation. We must recognize our need before we can understand the good news that Christ will save us. Once we realize our own helplessness we can turn our lives over to the Savior.

Lesson Objectives

Topic 1 describes the wrath of God, which is the starting point for understanding man's need of salvation.

In Topic 1, you will discover...

• Basic characteristics of God's wrath
• What people of all kinds do that makes them objects of God's wrath

Topic 2 explains why the Gentiles are condemned.

In Topic 2, you will learn...

• How God has revealed Himself to all mankind through nature
• How rejection of this revealed truth has led Gentiles into false religions and sinful practices

Topic 3 explains why self-righteous people are condemned.

In Topic 3, you will learn...

• How the hypocrisy of the self-righteous leads to self-condemnation
• Several principles of future divine judgment

Topic 4 explains why the Jews are condemned.

In Topic 4, you will discover...

• The advantages and responsibilities of the Jews
• The particular failure that led to their condemnation
• Three important questions that arise in light of God's condemnation of the Jews

Topic 5 confirms that all the world is condemned.

In Topic 5, you will consider how the condemnation of the world should motivate you to minister more effectively.

Lesson Outline

Topic 1: Wrath of God Revealed (1:18)

Nature of God's Wrath

Objects of God's Wrath

Topic 2: Gentiles Condemned (1:19-32)

General Revelation of God (1:19-20)

Rejection of Truth (1:21-32)

Topic 3: Self-righteous People Condemned (2:1-16)

Self-deceived and Self-condemned (2:1-6)

Principles of Judgment Revealed (2:5-16)

Topic 4: Jews Condemned (2:17-3:8)

Advantages and Responsibility (2:17-29)

Questions and Conclusion (3:1-8)

Topic 5: All the World Condemned (3:9-20)