Part One
In my years as a Christian I have lost track of the number of times I’ve heard the Roman Road referenced as an evangelistic tool. It’s said that the method is simple; point out the shortcomings in a person’s life (3:23), lead them to see the penalty of continuing in that state (6:23), invite them to partake of the glorious promise (5:8) and tell them how this promise can become theirs (10:9). It seems as though it could be effective presented to a heart that the Spirit is engaging. It also seems to leave out much of the glory of the Gospel, pulling out a verse here and there and often using them incomplete to form a logical argument, while failing to engage the soul. This is a shame, because the richness of Paul’s letter to the Roman church contains such a depth of truth that, when shared in greater detail, can answer the arguments of modern man and connect with the souls that are seeking something they’re missing but can’t identify.
A disciple that comes to Romans finds a treasure that far outweighs the application of memory verses. One can examine their definition of faith and have it challenged or affirmed. We can discover and meditate on what it means to fall short of the glory of God. The disciple can find an assurance–a rock solid assurance–in understanding why it is so important to be both justified and reconciled. The disciple can find a new way to examine their attitude towards sin and know the power of freedom rather than constantly operating under the threat of death.
A shallowness of faith grips the modern Church. Too many are satisfied to allow their lives to pass by un-examined. And although this leads to many things, one of the symptoms of this lack of depth is the desire to take the shortest possible route to any goal. Not all things can be explained in four laws or a handful of proof texts. Sometimes, especially with the things of God, the longer, slower more arduous route often brings the greatest benefit.
Over the course of this series of posts I will explore the depths of Paul’s letter as it was intended to be read. There is a clear progression of thought and extraordinary value in taking our time walking with the apostle as he shares the inspired message that God gave him in the middle of the first century so that we could enjoy it in the 21st century. I pray that you’ll join me.
LOVE | ACCEPT | FORGIVE 