Romans (Ch.1-3) - “For all have sinned”

Today we’re taking a look at the first 3 chapters of Romans. Paul’s intro to this letter is powerful, and he makes it clear that ALL have sinned and fallen short of the glory of God. We can’t rely on our own good works to earn our righteousness - it’s all about Jesus.

Study Notes:

Romans 1

Summary: The gospel reveals God’s righteousness; humanity rejects God despite creation showing His power; God’s wrath is revealed against sin and idolatry.
Cultural Note: Idolatry – Worship of anything other than God (Yahweh) was seen as the root of moral decay.
Fact: Written around AD 57 to a church Paul had never visited, likely started by Roman Jews from Pentecost (Acts 2).
Application: Look for ways to grow awe and gratitude instead of drifting toward self-focus or idolatry.
Questions:

1. What does Paul mean by “God’s invisible qualities” being seen in creation?

2. How do we see idolatry expressed in modern life

3. Why do you think rejecting God leads to moral breakdown?

4. What’s one way you’ve been reminded of God’s presence through nature?

Romans 2

Summary: God’s judgment is impartial; obedience matters more than heritage or ritual.
Cultural Note: Circumcision – The covenant sign for Jews; Paul says obedience matters more.
Fact: Jews often saw themselves as morally superior to Gentiles; Paul levels the field.
Application: Let God check pride and grow humility toward others.
Questions:

1. Why is it dangerous to judge others while ignoring our own sin?

2. How would you explain “God shows no favoritism” to someone new to faith?

3. In what ways do we rely on outward signs instead of inward obedience?

4. What’s an example of obeying God from the heart rather than just going through the motions?

Romans 3

Summary: All have sinned; righteousness comes through faith in Jesus, not the Law.
Cultural Note: The Law – The Torah, central to Jewish identity; Paul says it reveals sin, not salvation.

Fact: Verse 23 (“all have sinned…”) challenged a culture that tied worth to status.
Application: Rest in what Jesus has done instead of trying to earn His love.
Questions:

1. Why is it important to understand that “all have sinned”?

2. How does this chapter level the playing field between people?

3. What’s the difference between righteousness by faith and righteousness by works?

4. How does it change your confidence before God to know you’re justified by grace?