Paul continues to explain that the covenant made with Abraham is the foundation of faith whereas the Law of Moses has become obsolete. He explains the importance of the Law to highlight sin that separates us from God. Now all are equal in God’s sight if they have faith in Jesus.

Having encouraged the Roman Christians to be sensitive and kind to each other, Paul encourages them to have a long-term commitment to Jesus. He explains that the Old Testament is full of encouraging examples of faith. He traces the purpose of God to start with the Jewish nation and then to bring in the Gentiles to the faith.

Paul is aware of tensions between the Jewish Christians and the Gentile Christians in the church in Rome and some of the Gentiles questioning the importance of the Jews at that time. Paul explains the Jewish historical heritage which remains important. Jesus, the Messiah was a Jew and Paul himself.

Paul is arguing against the rejection of the Jews. He uses an event in the life of Elijah to show that even in the darkest moments, there was a faithful remnant, the elect. Paul is an example of that as are the Apostles. God has made permanent covenants with his people that he cannot break.

The process of writing letters at that time is outlined, together with the background of Paul the writer. The importance of Jesus' resurrection is highlighted and the term Apostle explained.

Paul highlights the value of the Old Testament, tracing the story of salvation from the covenant promise given to Abraham. Paul concludes his argument that all people need the gospel - Jew and Gentile alike.

Paul, under guard travelled by ship to Puteoli and then by road to Rome. Groups of Christians met him along the way which encouraged him. He spoke to the Jews in the synagogue where a few believed and then spent time under house arrest speaking without hindrance. Acts 1:8 has been fulfilled.

An issue arose about the need for Gentiles to become Jews as part of being Christians , including the act of male circumcision. The Council of Jerusalem was convened and it was agreed that this was not right. guidance was given to the gentile believers to help them separate themselves from pagan rites.

From Cyprus, Paul and Barnabas went to Pisidian Antioch to the synagogue where Paul was invited to preach. He started with the Jewish scriptures and went on to explain that Jesus fulfilled the Messianic promises. Gentiles were also present. There was a division amongst the Jews but a church was established.

Stephen answered the charges against him by reminding the Sanhedrin of their history and that at every point the Jews had resisted God - just as they had done, when they rejected him. In an emotional response, Stephen was stoned to death becoming the first Christian martyr.