• Lesson 1: Introduction and Preview (Rom 1:17; 15:14-16:27)
• * Topic 1: Background Information
•   Value of the Epistle
•   Paul's Reasons for Writing (Rom 15:14-33)
•   The Church at Rome (Rom 16:1-16)
•   Message of the Epistle
•   Preview of the Epistle
• * Topic 2: Paul's Introduction to the Epistle (Rom 1:1-17)
•   Greetings (Rom 1:1-7)
•   Paul's Proposed Visit (Rom 1:8-15)
•   Theme of the Epistle (Rom 1:16-17)

Lesson 1: Introduction and Preview to Romans
Topic 2: Paul's Introduction to the Epistle (Continued)

Paul's Proposed Visit (Rom 1:8-15)

Objective 7 - At the end of this topic, you will be able to list at least five characteristics of a good minister of the gospel as you see them demonstrated by Paul in Romans 1:8-15 and apply these in your own life and teaching.

You have probably noticed as you read this passage that Romans 1:8 is a "bridge" verse that unites Paul's salutation in Romans 1:1-8 with the following message about his proposed visit. It tells us more about the people to whom the letter is addressed. It is clear that Paul introduces his new subject when he says, "First of all." In this verse, he follows his usual pattern of commending the church on one of its strong points.

Question 32

Paul was thankful that in the capital city of the empire there was a "missionary church." Notice that Paul prayed often for this church although he had never been to Rome. This is a good example for us. We should be concerned about the work of God in other areas and in other countries.

Question 33

Notice that the word impart in Romans 1:11 may be better translated "share." Paul uses the same Greek word in a similar statement in 1 Thessalonians 2:8. The idea is not that Paul distributes gifts, but that he shares with other Christians the gifts God has given him.

Question 34

Does this verse bring you greater clarity on why Paul wrote his epistles, especially this one? Is this same desire a motivating force in your ministry?

Now notice an important principle for good leadership in Romans 1:12. Paul tells these Christians that they also may be a source of comfort and strength to him. There is a feeling of brotherhood between Paul and his readers, rather than a feeling of superiority on his part.

Question 35

Enter your answer for the question in the "course Life Notebook Questions page" found in the "Personal Life Notebook" section.

After you read Paul's description of an ideal Christian leader in Romans 1:8-15, see how many of those characteristics you can list in your Life Notebook. Pray over this list and indicate those you would like to cultivate. The first characteristic is listed for you.

Romans 1:8: He commends people when they deserve it.

Romans 1:9:

Romans 1:10:

Romans 1:11:

Romans 1:12:

Romans 1:13:

Romans 1:14:

Romans 1:15: