In our last visit we briefly introduced the important N.T. Epistle to the Romans, written by Paul. We’ve done focus and amplify studies in the past. Since Romans is such an important book I would like to do a focus and amplify study with you of the whole book.
After reading it a few times I identified the focus as being: The Key to Abundant Living. I’ve encouraged you to read the book, a chapter a day. If you can, take time as soon as possible to read it at one sitting and see if you agree with me on the focus of the book.
This is like identifying the main theme. Read it as if it is a letter. It has an introduction or salutation, then the main body of the letter and then some concluding remarks. The introduction covers the first 17 verses. The conclusion starts at 15:14 and goes to the end of the book. Some might feel that the conclusion is merely the last 3 verses.
In the introduction Paul indicates his authority and the basis for the authority of his message: the resurrection of Jesus Christ. He shares why he has not visited them yet, but he wants them to know he has wanted to in the past. He also points out that he is ready and unashamed to proclaim this message, because he is convinced that it is the power of God for the salvation of everyone who believes. Indeed, he says, quoting from Habakkuk 2:4, “The righteous will live by faith.”
Having established the theme he goes on to amplify his thesis. We will look at this amplification in our next visit. As you read try to see how he amplifies the focus: The Key to Abundant Living.
