By Robert Olsen, Ph.D.
Professor of Historical Theology and Director of Intercultural Studies, University of Mobile
TRUE POWER
Romans 1:13–25
Gospel Power (13–17)
The Book of Romans has been influential in transforming the lives of countless Christians — from Augustine to Martin Luther to John Wesley — motivating them to turn to God and away from their sinful lives.
One often hears that the Book of Romans is the closest Paul comes to writing his systematic theology because in it, Paul presents a clear presentation of God, man, sin and salvation.
Interestingly, Paul had not yet been to Rome, so he is writing to lay out the gospel clearly, making sure that he is not misrepresented. The reason Paul is so intent upon the gospel is that it is the only means by which people can be made right with God.
Paul indicates that the gospel is for both Jew and Gentile. This means all people — every person on earth! There is no other way for people to be saved.
This is a difficult truth in modern times as many believe that God saves people through their own chosen religion — that Muslims are saved through Islam, that Hindus are saved through Hinduism or Mormons are saved through the teachings of Joseph Smith.
But Paul is clear: People are only saved by the gospel of Jesus Christ. And this salvation is by faith, not by works — there is nothing anyone can do to make themselves right with God.
In verse 17, Paul quotes Habakkuk to prove his point, which he also refers to elsewhere in his letters — notably Galatians 3:11, with echoes in Ephesians 2:8–9.
Salvation has always been by faith, both in the Old Testament and the New. This is not a new development.
Divine Revelation (18–20)
We often hear people ask about “the man on the island” or “a good pagan” or “a good atheist.” How can God punish someone who has not heard the gospel?
While many denominations argue that God saves people apart from hearing the gospel, Paul makes it clear that there is no excuse for those who have not heard the gospel.
God has revealed Himself generally — that is, people can understand some things about God just by looking at nature and the world around them — but they need God’s special revelation — a clear presentation of the gospel — in order to be saved. This is the driving force behind missions.
We need to share the gospel with people so that they can hear a clear exposition of salvation. This is how they can be awakened by the Holy Spirit to realize their need for atonement, repent of their sins and trust in Christ as the sacrifice for their sins.
Worthless Thinking (21–25)
Everyone is evil. This is a core biblical truth that shows that apart from God, man will not choose Christ. Once people choose to ignore God, their views and actions lead to destruction.
One need only look back 60 years to see the attacks against traditional Christian norms and where this has led — a society that cannot correctly define marriage, gender or what is good and evil. Without the gospel, the morals of a nation become distorted and lead people away from God.
We should not be surprised when we see people around us doing things that are harmful both to themselves and society. It should motivate us more to share the gospel with them so they can see the Light and come to Christ!
Share with others: