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As we come to our fifth week, studying Romans 1:1 – 7, we will be directing our attention to Paul’s words in verses 1 – 2 where he says that “the gospel of God” is something “which he [God] promised beforehand through his prophets in the holy Scriptures”. Have you ever stopped and thought about how the gospel, as an ancient promise, is meant to become part of your identity? Part of the image of who you are?

As we come to our fourth installment in our study of Romans 1:1 – 7, I want to remind you of the reason we are studying so slowly. The reason why we are examining these verses, word for word or phrase by phrase is because in these opening verses, in these words, in these phrases, we find a great theology of our identity.

Well, here we are, week three in our study of the book of Romans. More specifically, week three of studying the first seven verses of the book of Romans as we consider all of the marks of identity that Paul uses to describe himself, the person of Christ Jesus, and the believers in Rome.

Last week, we began our study of the book of Romans, and we surveyed the first seven verses, commonly referred to as Paul’s introduction to the letter. What we learned last week, is that it is far more than a mere introduction; it is far more than the appetizer before the main dish of the letter.

Today we begin our study in the book of Romans! I have wanted to preach the book of Romans since the Lord saved me over twenty-six years ago. I have had the pleasure of preaching certain portions of Romans over the years, and many of you know that Romanschapter Eight is my life chapter – the one chapter in all of Scripture that has affected my life and ministry the most.