Certainly, much division has been caused by people who depart from essential doctrines or beliefs. Often, however, these divisions are over petty things that need not matter at all – mere opinions, with no solid biblical basis. How are we to relate to others who live out their faith in ways that look a lot different from our own? Paul answers that question in Romans 14.
Listen: Romans14.mp3
View Notes: Rom14.pdf
Today’s chapter answers the question of whether a New Testament faith in Christ agrees with the teaching of the Old Testament. Does the Hebrew Bible teach a righteousness based on works, rituals and law or a righteousness based on faith? Paul looks at the life of Abraham to show us that the two Testaments totally agree.
In the Book of Romans, the Apostle Paul gives us the gospel from God’s perspective. This is the good news of God’s grace, but before explaining to us God’s grace, he must explain God’s wrath. This section describes the downward spiral of degradation in a society.
The gospel is frequently misunderstood. For that matter God is severely misunderstood. Therefore, seeing the need to explain Himself to a lost, needy and confused human race, God enlisted the Apostle Paul to clarify His position. The Book of Romans is that explanation. In this message we look at the introduction to the book.
Central Reflections 