Paul explained his method of reaching all the people he met in his mission to the Gentiles. He identified with them so he could preach the gospel to them. Paul described the Christian life as a race with a prize at the end - eternal life.

Paul is concerned to correct the practice of using the gifts unhelpfully that existed in the Corinthian church. He highlights here the gifts of prophecy, speaking in tongues and the interpretation of tongues.

This is the earliest recorded account of the resurrection of Jesus, given by Peter to Paul and now given by Paul to the Corinthian church to give them hope. These are the historical facts.

The leadership of a church is very important. It includes apostles, pastors and teachers, evangelists and prophets. All are under the authority of the original Apostles through Scripture.

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.

Paul outlines his conversion experience and his calling from Jesus himself. This is to demonstrate his authority to preach the gospel. He explains his visit to the Apostles in Jerusalem and how they supported him in his ministry to the Gentiles.

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 used many examples from the Old Testament to further his argument that God did not choose all Israel. All the way through their history a remnant remained faithful. Just like the clay cannot question the potter’s decision, we cannot question God’s decisions.

Paul explains that Jesus is the culmination of the law. He outlines the process of sharing the gospel and comments on the response of the Jews and Gentiles at that time.

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.