Mariella Felisse Cubero
GE 10 – BB
Reflection on Romans Chapters I-III

The introductory chapters of Romans (one to three) written by the Apostle Paul are a significant portion of the Book of Romans, which is considered one of the most important theological and doctrinal texts in the New Testament of the Christian Bible. I think it’s well regarded as a foundational text for understanding key Christian doctrines like justification by faith and the nature of sin, and should be studied and contemplated by us Christians in order to seek a deeper understanding of our faith and its theological underpinnings.

Chapter one mainly discusses the idea of sin and God’s anger. Paul introduces himself and declares his enthusiasm to preach the gospel at Rome at the outset. He underlines the pervasiveness of sin by saying that both Jews and Gentiles have sinned and are in need of repentance. Paul also discusses how people have strayed away from the true God and denounces a variety of wicked practices, including idolatry and immoral sexual activity. He establishes the necessity of redemption. Paul’s criticism of vices like idolatry and immoral sexual activity points to the existence of moral norms that are shared by all people. This can be interpreted in the present context as a call for people and society to embrace moral standards that advance the well of everyone, regardless of their religious views. Lastly, Chapter one can provide a basis for theological inquiry and moral instruction for persons who have religious convictions. It can spark conversations on how moral decisions are made today and how faith shapes one’s own ideals.

Paul discusses the Jews and their dependence on the Law of Moses for righteousness in Chapter two. He contends that observing the commandments or having a circumcision do not suffice to make one righteous in God’s eyes. He stresses the value of upholding the law rather than merely hearing about it. Paul claims that regardless of whether a person is a Jew under the law or a Gentile without it, God will judge them according to their acts. He emphasizes that the circumcision of the heart, not simply the physical process, is what is important. This chapter implies that ethical behavior and moral values must be upheld by people of all religious and cultural backgrounds, and that individuals should be judged by their actions and character rather than their religious affiliation. It promotes people to accept accountability for their actions, acknowledging that they have an impact on both their own lives and society as a whole.

The subject of the pervasiveness of sin continues in Chapter three. Paul emphasizes that nobody is righteous on their own by saying that everyone has sinned and fallen short of God’s glory. He does, though, also present the idea of justification by way of belief in Jesus Christ. Paul emphasizes that since Jesus’ death on the cross atones for sins and appeases God’s judgment, righteousness is obtained via trust in him. He adds that both Jews and Gentiles who put their faith in Christ are eligible for this righteousness. This verse has remained a foundational principle of our Christianity. It emphasizes the notion that while everyone is a sinner and falls short of God’s standards, people may be made righteous in God’s eyes by placing their faith in Jesus Christ and his atoning work on the cross. This idea continues to be central to Christian doctrine and is the basis for comprehending our connection with God and the necessity of redemption.