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The book of Romans has rightly been called the foundational epistle of the Christian faith. Before we can understand its doctrine, however, we must first establish the importance of biblical context. While all Scripture is inspired by God and profitable for our instruction, faithful Bible study requires that we ask who God is speaking to, when He is speaking, and how each passage fits within His unfolding plan. Rather than forcing every verse to apply in the same way, believers are called to rightly divide the Word of Truth and interpret Scripture according to its intended audience and purpose.

In this introductory message, we explore the unique place of Paul's nine church epistles and why Romans stands first among them. As the doctrinal foundation for the Church, Romans establishes the truths upon which the rest of the New Testament builds. We also examine the book's threefold structure—doctrinal, dispensational, and devotional—and its central theme: the righteousness of God revealed through the gospel of Jesus Christ.

Finally, we consider the distinct revelation entrusted to the Apostle Paul concerning the mystery of the Church, God's eternal purpose, and the dispensation of grace. As we begin this verse-by-verse study through Romans, this message provides the biblical framework necessary to understand the epistle in its proper context and to appreciate the remarkable calling God has given His Church in His eternal plan.

Thanks for listening to the Living Faith St. Louis podcast. This episode is part of our weekly sermon ministry from Pastor Blade Sbisa, with occasional guest speakers and special series.
 For more information, visit the LFSTL website.