Romans 2:12-16

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There is no escaping death.  Sin leads to death.  This includes both those who sin but haven’t hot the Law (Torah), they still perish and it also includes those who have heard Torah (Jews) but break it. They are judged under the Law (v12). Is this unfair?  No, because judgement is not concerning whether or… Continue reading Romans 2:12-16

Romans, Jews, Gentiles, Paul and antisemitism

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I’ve been gradually working through the book of Romans whilst at the same time, antisemitism has been rearing it’s ugly head again.  Often, antisemitism within Christianity is associated with interpretations of Paul and the Gospels, especially where they are seen to specifically blame Jews for the death of Jesus or to teach the idea of… Continue reading Romans, Jews, Gentiles, Paul and antisemitism

Romans 2:1-5 (notes)

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At the start of chapter 2, Paul is addressing any man/person rather than specifically the recipients of his letter. The point is made to those who seek to judge others, they are “without excuse”.  This is the conclusion  to the preceding argument that God’s righteousness and wrath our revealed clearly but humans choose to suppress… Continue reading Romans 2:1-5 (notes)

Romans 1:24-32 (notes)

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We are now told about three ways that God gave humanity up or handed them over.  First, he gave their hearts over to lust (v24), second, he gave them over to “dishonourable passions” .  note, it’s their bodies that are given over (v26).[1] Thirdly, he handed over their minds or delivered them to “debased minds”… Continue reading Romans 1:24-32 (notes)

Romans 1:17-23 (notes)

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The Gospel has power to save because it reveals righteousness.  This righteousness is “from faith to faith” or we might say “is all about faith”.  In other words, you can’t add anything such as works to faith in order to gain righteousness.  Paul quotes Habakkuk 2:4 to back this up, “The righteous will live by… Continue reading Romans 1:17-23 (notes)

Romans 1:16 (notes)

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There now follows a lengthy sentence, supporting the  statement here in verse 16.  The organising theme of this section is that Paul is  “not ashamed of the Gospel.”  Three reasons are then given as to why, all connected by the word γὰρ or “for”.  Paul is not ashamed of the Gospel. Why?  Because it is,… Continue reading Romans 1:16 (notes)

Romans 1:8-15 (notes)

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It is normal for Paul to follow his initial greeting with a prayer of thanksgiving for the recipient church.  Here he gives thanks, not just for the Romans’ faith but because it is widely known. When Paul talks about the world, he means the known world of the day or Roman Empire  (v8).  Paul himself… Continue reading Romans 1:8-15 (notes)