The Bible in a Nutshell XVIII: Romans & 1 Corinthians

Here we'll begin to take a look at the at the letters written by the Apostles to various church's throughout the Roman empire. The New Testament lists the letters in topical order and begins with some of the most foundational letters. Romans is a prime example.

Romans
The epistles of the New Testament aren't arranged in chorological order, but the first epistle, Paul's letter to the Romans, offers introductory information that is vital for new believers. Rome was the most important city in the Roman Empire, and after starting several churches throughout Roman territory; no apostle had been there until Paul's trip. Most of the Roman's had never seen Paul and his letter to them served as a primer for his visit. For this reason, the teaching that Paul gives in his letter is foundational, making it a very good book to study for the foundations of Christianity. He begins by proclaiming the messiahship of Jesus, and supporting his statement pointing back to Old Testament prophecy. Paul then discusses the fallen nature of man and his need for salvation. Paul explained that to receive salvation, all one had to do was have faith in Jesus as Lord and Savior, and turn from their ways of the past. Paul ended his letter by greeting those he knew in Rome. The leader of the Cenchrean church, Phoebe, was already traveling to Rome, so she carried the letter with her.