Main Answer
Paul wrote Romans to explain the gospel he preached, strengthen unity among Jewish and Gentile believers in Rome and prepare the churches to support his planned mission towards Spain. The letter gives a full account of salvation because Paul wanted a church he had never visited to understand his message and share in the work.
Paul was preparing to travel to Jerusalem with a collection for poor believers. After that journey, he hoped to visit Rome and continue west. Romans introduces his ministry while placing his plans under the wider purpose of God.
The church in Rome included people from different backgrounds. Questions about the law, Israel, food and holy days affected their life together. Paul explains grace in a way that leads directly into humility, welcome and shared worship.
What Was Happening When Romans Was Written?
Romans was probably written from the area of Corinth during the middle or later 50s AD. Paul had completed a wide period of ministry in the eastern Mediterranean and was preparing to carry the collection from Macedonia and Achaia to Jerusalem.
He had not founded the Roman churches, although Romans 16 shows that he knew many believers who lived there. The letter therefore introduces his gospel carefully and establishes a basis for future partnership.
For I am not ashamed of the gospel of Christ: for it is the power of God unto salvation to every one that believeth.
Romans 1:16, KJV
What Did Paul Want Romans to Accomplish?
Paul wanted the believers to stand firmly in the gospel and receive one another as people welcomed by Christ. His teaching about justification removes boasting, while his teaching about Israel warns Gentile Christians against pride.
The final chapters show the practical goal. Renewed minds, sincere love and patient treatment of disputed matters give visible form to the mercy explained earlier in the letter.
The full movement of the letter, from universal sin to mission and worship, is followed in Romans: Uncovering Scripture, The Complete Book Explained.
The Extra Study below examines Paul’s setting, the mixed Roman churches and the way his missionary plans shape the whole letter.
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