Study Questions 2 Romans 1:16-17

Study Questions 2 Romans 1:16-17 1.

Most commentators identify Romans 1:16-17 as Paul's thesis statement of his letter. Paraphrase these two verses to state clearly what Paul's thesis statement is. Do not depend upon only one translation to assist you in paraphrasing. Read several versions, such as the KJV, RSV, NRSV, NIV, NASB, etc.

2.

Throughout Romans Paul uses two expressions rather frequently: (1) “righteousness,” also translated “justification”; and the second expression (2) “righteousness of God.” Of particular concern, at this point, is the latter expression—“righteousness of God.” Trace this combination of words throughout Romans. Unless you know the letter well, you will likely need to use a concordance for this. If you have Bible software, you may want to use it. It is also conceivable that you could use an electronic copy of the Bible on the Internet. What are the possible meanings of the expression, “righteousness of God”? What does Paul mean by the expression?

3.

Review the distributed outline of Romans that shows its parts tied into the thesis statement in Romans 1:16-17. Reflect upon whether and how the thesis statement of 1:16-17 links to each of the large divisions of the letter.

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