NextLevel Online: Romans
by Michael DeFazio
Lessons
Romans 1.1-17: Intro and Purpose
The first session gives us an introduction to the Book of Romans.
Romans 1.18-32: The Problem
Plenty have tried to diagnose the core of our disease. Here at the start of Romans, we find Paul’s most thorough answer. To see this well, we’re actually going to take the text backwards.
Romans 2.1-3.20: The (Failed) Solution
In session 3, the solution to the problem in session 2 has become part of the problem. Now God has to find a way to save everyone.
Romans 3.21-4.25: The Question of Romans
How can God save sinful Jews and Gentiles through faith in Jesus without violating his integrity or breaking his promise?
Romans 5-1.11: Taking Justification Personally
Paul explains in Romans 3-4 that God justifies us – he declares us righteous or acquitted or pardoned – not on the basis of our good behavior but solely on the basis of his mercy and grace, solely on the basis of Jesus’ death as the perfect sacrifice that atones for our sin.
Romans 5.12-6.23: Gospel Freedom
In session 6, We focus on Romans 5-8 where Paul is digging deeper into this gospel by exploring the salvation that it brings.
Romans 7-8: God, Law, and Life
These two chapters wrap up the second section of Romans. 1-4 was about explaining the gospel; 5-8 has been about exploring salvation.
Romans 9-11: Problem with the Plan?
Session 8 covers Romans 9-11.
Romans 12.1-2: The Process of Transformation
How do I put the process of transformation into practice?
Romans 12-13: Being the Church
Paul writes Romans for the church. Romans 12-16 is not just “practical advice for a successful life”; it is inspired wisdom for how to be the church or God’s people.
Romans 14-15: How to Fight in Church
We have unpacked four of Paul’s five “church killers” If we’re going to be the church, we gotta find a way to disagree well. Paul gives us just what we need in Romans 14-15.
Romans 15.13-16.27: Gospel People
Let’s once more remind ourselves of the purpose and layout of Romans. Paul is writing the letter to (1) Clarify the gospel, (2) Prove God’s righteousness, and (3) Unify the church. To this end we’ve broken down his letter into four parts.
