Bible Study Snacks: Laying the Groundwork for Romans Chapter 1:8-17

Last time, we read and discussed Romans 1:1-7. But, before we move on, it might be a good idea to learn a little more about Paul. If you find that you need to refresh your memory, please go back and review our last study session. Remember, we will never rush through our teachings; as we like to stress quality over quantity while studying the Bible. Some additional information about Paul:

• Paul was the apostle of Christ to the Gentiles. The commission of the other apostles extended to all nations and every creature, but was exercised in fact chiefly among the Jews. (Gal. 2:7-9)


• Paul's commission (Acts 26:16-20) certainly included the Jews, but was chiefly to the Gentiles. (Acts 9:15; 20:21)


• He began his first missionary journey from Antioch, visiting Cyprus and other various points in Asia Minor.


• Soon after his return he started on his second missionary journey, where he entered Europe and preached in Macedonia and Achaia.


• His third missionary journey took him back to Europe, then Asia (Ephesus); back to Macedonia and Greece, returning to Macedonia (Philippi), to Troas (on the coast of Asia Minor), past Ephesus (Miletus), back to Syria and up to Jerusalem.


• It was during this third missionary journey (while at Corinth) that he wrote the Epistle to the Romans (around A.D. 60).

Now, up to this time Paul had never been to Rome. He had come close a few times before, but he always turned back. Here are some questions for you to think about as we prepare for our next study:

• Why did he, the Apostle of the Gentiles, seem to avoid Rome, the center of the Gentile world?


• Did he have no desire to come to Rome?


• Was he afraid, or maybe ashamed to come to Rome with his gospel?

Hint: These questions are answered in the next reading, so continue your scripture reading with Romans 1:8-17. We will cover that material in our next study session.

Prayer:

Jesus, I pray to you that you will open my heart; so that I may be receptive to your teachings. I pray that you will open my eyes; so that I may not only see, but understand your Word. Your Gospel is much needed nourishment for my hungry soul; Heavenly Father may you always feed my spirit in abundance. Amen.

Until next time...May God Bless You!

Sheri