Session 1
Chapter 1: The Problem of Sin
From Romans Study
Watch Video
The One Thing: Sin is a universal problem, but the gospel is the power of God for salvation to everyone who believes.
Intro
Welcome to the start of a journey that has the potential to change the way you see God, yourself, and the world around you. The book of Romans isn’t just a theological textbook. It is actually a letter written to a real church facing real pressure, reminding them that the gospel is the only power capable of bringing salvation to everyone everywhere. As we begin, remember that discipleship was never meant to happen alone. You are embarking on this 16-week study to move beyond reading what the Bible says to truly understanding what it means for your everyday life.
Paul gets right to the point in the very first chapter. He begins by describing the universal problem of sin and the reality that it has separated all of us from God. As you read this week, look for the picture Paul paints of a world that has rejected God. At the same time, look for the hope that Paul introduces in light of the gospel. Pay careful attention to verses 16-17, as they contain Paul’s purpose in writing this letter.
Study Questions
- Did you read through the entire book of Romans before jumping into Chapter 1? If not, take the time to do that now.
- Where was Paul when he wrote this letter, and why was he longing to see the Roman believers? (You may need to revisit the Historic Context of Romans on page # of the study guide.)
- Read Romans 1:16-17. In your own words, why did Paul write this book, and what is his main message?
- Read verses 1-7. Where do you see the Father, Son, and Holy Spirit appearing in Paul’s greeting?
- Based on verses 1-17, how would you define the gospel in your own words?
- Paul mentions Jews, Gentiles, and Greeks. Based on the cultural context of the New Testament, what is the significance of these different groups?
- Use a dictionary or concordance to define the word "sin." What is the complete definition, and how does it compare to your previous understanding?
- What is "the wrath of God" as described in verse 18? Use a dictionary or concordance to help you define this term.
- What does it mean that God’s truth is "written in creation"? Look up Psalm 19:1-4 to help you answer.
- Look at verses 28-32. Where do you see the evidence of this kind of “debased mind” in the world around you today?
- Read Romans 1:16-17 again and consider the message of the gospel. Have you ever felt afraid or ashamed to share the gospel? Why? Have you ever shared the gospel with someone? What happened? Who was the person who first shared the gospel with you?
In our first video, we look to Paul’s introduction to the gospel as the power of God for salvation. He begins his letter by establishing that sin is a universal problem that affects everyone. While we may tend to qualify some sins as worse than others, Paul presents everyone as standing in equal need of the gospel.
Discussion Questions
- Why did you decide to join this group to study the book of Romans? What do you hope to gain or experience?
- Have you ever felt ashamed or scared to share the gospel? What makes it difficult, and how does Chapter 1 change your perspective?
- Paul lists sins we consider "respectable" (like gossip or pride) alongside "major" ones (like maliciousness and murder). How does this challenge the way we rank sin in our own lives?
- Paul was writing to people under intense pressure in Rome. How does his "unashamed" confidence in the gospel encourage you today?
- Romans 1:16-17 says that there is power in the gospel. Have you seen the gospel dramatically change someone’s life?
- Reflect on your study this week. Are there any specific questions you want to discuss or insights you would like to share?