Romans was written from Corinth by the apostle Paul around A.D. 56-58. The purpose of the book was to proclaim the glory of the Lord Jesus Christ by teaching doctrine, and to edify and encourage the believers who would receive his letter. Paul mainly wrote this letter to those who were "loved by God and called to be saints." (Romans 1:7). Because Paul was a Roman citizen, he has a unique passion for those in the assembly of believers in Rome. Up to this point he had not visited the church in Rome, so this letter also served as his introduction to them. The book of Romans is considered by many scholars to be the ABC's of the believers education.

Romans 1

1 Paul, a servant of Jesus Christ, called to be an apostle, separated unto the gospel of God. Written by Paul, an apostle of Jesus Christ sent out to preach His good news. "Paul, a destroyer of Christians, was chosen by Christ when he was struck down on the road to Damascus." (Acts 9:1-7).

² Which he had promised afore by his prophets in the holy scriptures. God promised this "Good News" long ago through His prophets in the Holy Scriptures. (Luke 24:26-27, Acts 10:43, 26:6, Titus 1:2).

³ Concerning his Son Jesus Christ our Lord, which was made of the seed of David according to the flesh. Jesus born into King David's family line. (Galatians 4:4). David's line, but ending specifically in Mary, who was the "seed of David." Christ being "the seed of David" through the virgin Marry. (Genesis 3:15, Isaiah 7:14, Matthew 1:23, 2 Timothy 2:8).

⁴ And declared to be the Son of God with power, according to the spirit of holiness, by the resurrection from the dead. The Son of God, being raised from the dead by the power of the Holy Spirit. (Acts 2:24). God has raised Him up and brought Him back to life again defeating death (which is the devil).

⁵ By whom we have received grace and apostleship, for obedience to the faith among all nations, for his name. Through Christ, God has given us the privilege and authority as apostles (sent ones, or messengers), to tell the nations (Gentiles, or foreign people), what God has done for them so that they may become believers.   

⁶ Among whom are ye also the called of Jesus Christ. You are included among those gentiles who have been called to belong to Jesus Christ. (1 Corinthians 1:24).

⁷ To all that be in Rome, beloved of God, called to be saints: Grace to you and peace from God our Father, and the Lord Jesus Christ. Writing to all you in Rome who are loved by God and "called" to be His own holy people. (1 Thessalonians 4:7, 1 Peter 1:15).

⁸ First, I thank my God through Jesus Christ for you all, that your faith is spoken of throughout the whole world. Thanking God in "Jesus Name" for all of you because of your faith in Him which is being talked about all over the world.

⁹ For God is my witness, whom I serve with my spirit in the gospel of his Son, that without ceasing I make mention of you always in my prayers. Paul always praying for the saints.

¹⁰ Making request, if by any means now at length I might have a prosperous journey by the will of God to come unto you. Always praying for the opportunity to come and see you.

¹¹ For I long to see you, that I may impart unto you some spiritual gift, to the end ye may be established. Paul always wanting to bring spiritual gifts that will help them grow strong in the Lord. (Teachings in the Word).

¹² That is, that I may be comforted together with you by the mutual faith both of you and me. Mutual encouragement in the faith.

¹³ Now I would not have you ignorant, brethren, that oftentimes I purposed to come unto you, (but was let hitherto,) that I might have some fruit among you also, even as among other Gentiles. Paul tried to visit them many times but was prevented until now. Paul wanted to see the spiritual fruit grow among the Romans, just as he had seen among other Gentiles.

¹⁴ I am debtor both to the Greeks, and to the Barbarians; both to the wise, and to the unwise. Paul has a great sense of obligation to the people in both the civilized world as well as the rest of the world, to the educated and uneducated alike.

¹⁵ So, as much as in me is, I am ready to preach the gospel to you that are at Rome also. I am eager to come and teach the "Good News" to you in Rome.

¹⁶ For I am not ashamed of the gospel of Christ: for it is the power of God unto salvation to every one that believeth; to the Jew first, and also to the Greek. Paul was not ashamed of "The Good News" about Christ, and he was not ashamed to teach it. It is the power of God at work, saving everyone who believes, Jews and Gentiles alike. (Luke 9:26, 1 Peter 4:16). Never be ashamed of your belief in Jesus Christ, or ashamed to teach the truth of His Word. "If you are ashamed of Him, He will be ashamed of you when He comes to His full Glory."

¹⁷ For therein is the righteousness of God revealed from faith to faith: as it is written, The just shall live by faith. Go makes us right in His eyes from start to finish through faith. "It is through faith that a righteous person has life." (Habakkuk 2:4, Galatians 3:11, Hebrews 11:6-7).

¹⁸ For the wrath of God is revealed from heaven against all ungodliness and unrighteousness of men, who hold the truth in unrighteousness. However, God will show His anger from heaven against all sinful wicked people who suppress the truth by their wickedness. "Beware of false teachers in the end times." (1 Timothy 4:1-2).

¹⁹ Because that which may be known of God is manifest in them; for God hath shewed it unto them. They know the truth about God because He made it known to them.

²⁰ For the invisible things of him from the creation of the world are clearly seen, being understood by the things that are made, even his eternal power and Godhead; so that they are without excuse. Since the beginning of time people have seen everything God has made. They can clearly see His invisible qualities, eternal power, and divine nature. "They have no excuse for not knowing God." (Especially in today's world with all it's technology, there is no excuse not to know the Word of God).

²¹ Because that, when they knew God, they glorified him not as God, neither were thankful; but became vain in their imaginations, and their foolish heart was darkened. They know God, but they don't worship, believe in, or give thanks to Him. They think up foolish ideas of what God is like, and their minds become dark and confused. (Matthew 15:19, Ephesians 4:17-18).

²² Professing themselves to be wise, they became fools. They claim to be wise, but are just a bunch of fools.

²³ And changed the glory of the uncorruptible God into an image made like to corruptible man, and to birds, and fourfooted beasts, and creeping things. Instead of worshipping the "Living God" they worship idols made to look like people and animals. (Revelation 9:20). "Ones claiming to be servants of God."

²⁴ Wherefore God also gave them up to uncleanness through the lusts of their own hearts, to dishonour their own bodies between themselves. God abandoned them as He will do today. Why? Because of the shameful things their hearts desired. "They did vile and perverted things with each others bodies." (Leviticus 18:22). If you want to be ignorant of God's Word and follow lies, deception, and traditions of men; God will send you strong delusion to believe those lies. He will close your eyes to the truth. (2 Thessalonians 2:10-12, Isaiah 29:10). Look at how people are so comfortable with their false teachings. "Comfortable with their spirit of slumber."

²⁵ Who changed the truth of God into a lie, and worshipped and served the creature more than the Creator, who is blessed for ever. Amen. They traded truth about God for a lie. They worship the things God has created instead of the Creator Himself. (1 John 2:15-16).

²⁶ For this cause God gave them up unto vile affections: for even their women did change the natural use into that which is against nature. God abandoned them because of their shameful desires. Even the women turned from natural sex and indulged in sex with each other. The perfect example is Sodom and Gomorrah. (Jude 1:7). This would never go on today, would it?

²⁷ And likewise also the men, leaving the natural use of the woman, burned in their lust one toward another; men with men working that which is unseemly, and receiving in themselves that recompence of their error which was meet. The men instead of having normal sexual relations with women, burned with lust for each other. This is so common today, that we don't even think about it. (I'm sure this behavior would never go on in any religious groups today). Hmmm.

²⁸ And even as they did not like to retain God in their knowledge, God gave them over to a reprobate mind, to do those things which are not convenient. They though it was foolish to acknowledge God, so He abandoned them for their foolish thinking, just as He does today. They say they know God, but their works deny Him. (Titus 1:16).

²⁹ Being filled with all unrighteousness, fornication, wickedness, covetousness, maliciousness; full of envy, murder, debate, deceit, malignity; whisperers. Their lives became full of every kind of wickedness. I don't think it can get much more wicked in this world today. "It's a jungle out there."

³⁰ Backbiters, haters of God, despiteful, proud, boasters, inventors of evil things, disobedient to parents. Backstabbers, haters of God, proud and boastful. Always inventing new ways of sinning and disobey their parents. Sound like anyone you know?

³¹ Without understanding, covenantbreakers, without natural affection, implacable, unmerciful. They refuse to understand, break their promises, and are heartless with no mercy. (2 Timothy 3:3).

³² Who knowing the judgment of God, that they which commit such things are worthy of death, not only do the same, but have pleasure in them that do them. These people know that because of the way they are. According to God's justice, they deserve to die, but they do not care. Worse yet, they encourage others to do the same thing. Do not be deceived and fall into confusion like the majority of people. Try hard to keep yourself from the sick desires of others; staying focused on the truth of the Word. "You will never be free if you follow the ways of the world."

Romans 2

1 Therefore thou art inexcusable, O man, whosoever thou art that judgest: for wherein thou judgest another, thou condemnest thyself; for thou that judgest doest the same things. In other words, those of you who think you are so holy condemn others, but you are just as bad and have no excuse. When you say the wicked should be punished, you are condemning yourself, because you who judge others do these very same things. This brings to my attention (John 8:3-11), when the Scribes and Pharisees brought to Christ a woman that they said had committed adultery. They wanted to stone her to death for this act according to the law of Moses. But, Jesus was writing in the ground and said to them; "he that is without sin among you, let him cast the first stone at her." (Then Jesus continued to write on the ground). What was Jesus writing? Well, I believe that He was reading their thoughts and they were convicted by their own conscience. Jesus was probably writing something like; "hey john, remember when you were fooling around with that girl over there the other night." "What about you Matt, when you were under the oak tree the other day with another mans wife." "Then there is you Jimmy; you were seen in the back room with both Matt and John." Slowly one by one the woman's accusers left until there was only Jesus and the woman left. Then Jesus asked the woman where her accusers were now, and who was condemning her. She answered, "no man Lord." Then Jesus said to her, "neither do I condemn you: go and sin no more." (Lets leave judging people to God; if you need to judge someone, judge yourself).

² But we are sure that the judgment of God is according to truth against them which commit such things. God will judge and punish those who sin in His own way.

³ And thinkest thou this, O man, that judgest them which do such things, and doest the same, that thou shalt escape the judgment of God? When you judge others and do the same things yourself, why do you think you can avoid God's judgment?

⁴ Or despisest thou the riches of his goodness and forbearance and longsuffering; not knowing that the goodness of God leadeth thee to repentance? Our Heavenly Father is kind, tolerant, and long suffering (patient), with all His children to turn from sin. (Psalms 86:15, Isaiah 30:18, John 4:2, 1 Timothy 1:16, 1 Peter 3:20).

⁵ But after thy hardness and impenitent heart treasurest up unto thyself wrath against the day of wrath and revelation of the righteous judgment of God. In other words, when you are stubborn and refuse to turn from sin, you are just hurting yourself. "The day is coming when God's righteous judgment will be revealed." (Ecclesiastes 12:14, 2 Peter 2:9, 3:7, 12:14, Revelation 6:17).

⁶ Who will render to every man according to his deeds. God will judge everyone according to what they have done. (Galatians 6:7-8, Revelation 20:12, 22:12).

⁷ To them who by patient continuance in well doing seek for glory and honour and immortality, eternal life. God will give eternal life to those who keep doing good according to the will of God. Those who seek after the glory and honor and immortality that God offers. (2 Corinthians 4:16-18, Colossians 1:27, 1 Peter 1:7-8, 4:13:14). 

⁸ But unto them that are contentious, and do not obey the truth, but obey unrighteousness, indignation and wrath. But, God will pour out His wrath on those who live for themselves and refuse to obey the truth in the Word. Those who choose to live lives of wickedness and follow evil ways of the world. (2 Thessalonians 2:10-12). If you want to be ignorant of God's Word and follow lies, deception, and traditions of men; God will send you strong delusion to believe those lies. "He will close your eyes to the truth." (Isaiah 29:10). Look at how people are so comfortable with their teachings, even if they are not of God.

⁹ Tribulation and anguish, upon every soul of man that doeth evil, of the Jew first, and also of the Gentile. There will be trouble and chaos for everyone who keeps doing evil, Jews and Gentiles alike. (1 Peter 4:7). Judgment is near, and it begins with God's house. In other words, Judgment begins at the pulpit. "If you are a teacher of God's Word, you better know what you are talking about and what you teach." You are responsible for those who follow your teachings, so you better get it right and not mislead anyone with false teachings and traditions of men.

¹⁰ But glory, honour, and peace, to every man that worketh good, to the Jew first, and also to the Gentile. There will be honor and glory and peace from God to those who do good. (Psalms 15:2, Proverbs 11:18).

¹¹ For there is no respect of persons with God. God is totally fair and shows no favoritism towards any race or person. (Galatians 2:6, 6:7-8, Ephesians 6:9, Colossians 3:25, 1 Peter 1:17).

¹² For as many as have sinned without law shall also perish without law: and as many as have sinned in the law shall be judged by the law. i.e., we will all be judged by God fairly. Gentiles, even though they never had God's written law, and the Jews who have the written law, will be judged by that law when they fail to obey it.

¹³ For not the hearers of the law are just before God, but the doers of the law shall be justified. Just hearing the law doesn't make us right with God, it is obeying the law that makes us right in His sight. (Don't just hear the Word, do your best to live the Word and you will please your Heavenly Father).

¹⁴ For when the Gentiles, which have not the law, do by nature the things contained in the law, these, having not the law, are a law unto themselves. Even those who do not have the written law, show that they know Gods law when they obey it, even without having heard it.

¹⁵ Which shew the work of the law written in their hearts, their conscience also bearing witness, and their thoughts the mean while accusing or else excusing one another. They show that God's law is written in their hearts. Their own conscience either accuses them, or tells them they are doing right. (Deep in your heart you should know what is right and wrong). "Most people do." (1 John 3:19-21). If we share a truth, or our faith with others, we will know by our actions that we are on God's side and our consciences will be clear; even when we stand before God. If we have a bad conscience and feel we have done wrong, God will also know it because He knows everything we do. God is also able to overcome any of our downfalls. If our consciences are clear, we can come to the Lord with assurance and trust.

¹⁶ In the day when God shall judge the secrets of men by Jesus Christ according to my gospel. What day? The Lords day; when God, through Christ Jesus, will judge everyone's secret life. "You can't hide anything from God and we will all stand before Him at judgment day." (Revelation 20:11-15).

¹⁷ Behold, thou art called a Jew, and restest in the law, and makest thy boast of God. Those who call themselves Jews are relying on God's law, and they boast about their special relationship with Him. "This should bring our attention to the Kenites (Revelation 2:9), those who claimed to be Jews and were not." (John 8:42-44). This should also bring our attention to those who call themselves Christians, but they only go through the motions of going to church; then follow traditions of men and the ways of the world.

¹⁸ And knowest his will, and approvest the things that are more excellent, being instructed out of the law. You should know what is right and what God wants because you have been taught His law.

¹⁹ And art confident that thou thyself art a guide of the blind, a light of them which are in darkness. You are convinced that you are a light for people who are lost in darkness. (John 9:41).

²⁰ An instructor of the foolish, a teacher of babes, which hast the form of knowledge and of the truth in the law. You think that God's law gives you complete knowledge of truth, and you can teach the ignorant, and children the ways of God. (2 Timothy 3:5, Titus 1:6). They act holy, or claim to be teachers of God, but reject the power that could make them Godly. Never teaching the truth of the Word, but cling to old laws and traditions of men.

²¹ Thou therefore which teachest another, teachest thou not thyself? thou that preachest a man should not steal, dost thou steal? Why don't you practice what you preach. You tell others not to steal, but do you steal? (Luke 11:46, Matthew 23:14). You experts in the religion just crush people with your unbearable religious demands, and never raise a finger to help them. "Bunch of phony hypocrites." (Matthew 23:2-4).

²² Thou that sayest a man should not commit adultery, dost thou commit adultery? thou that abhorrest idols, dost thou commit sacrilege? You say it is wrong to commit adultery, but yet you do it yourselves. You condemn idolatry, but you use items stolen from pagan temples.

²³ Thou that makest thy boast of the law, through breaking the law dishonourest thou God? Your so proud of knowing the law, but yet you dishonor God by breaking it. (James 4:16-17).

²⁴ For the name of God is blasphemed among the Gentiles through you, as it is written. The scriptures say that the Gentiles blaspheme the name of God because of you. Written in the old testament. (Ezekiel 36:20-23).

²⁵ For circumcision verily profiteth, if thou keep the law: but if thou be a breaker of the law, thy circumcision is made uncircumcision. You go through the ceremony of circumcision, but you do not obey God's law. Therefore it has no value and you are no better off than the uncircumcised Gentile.

²⁶ Therefore if the uncircumcision keep the righteousness of the law, shall not his uncircumcision be counted for circumcision? If the Gentiles obey God's law, won't God declare them to be His people also? (Isaiah 56:6-7).

²⁷ And shall not uncircumcision which is by nature, if it fulfil the law, judge thee, who by the letter and circumcision dost transgress the law? The uncircumcised Gentiles who keep God's law, will condemn you as Jews who are circumcised and don't obey God's law.

²⁸ For he is not a Jew, which is one outwardly; neither is that circumcision, which is outward in the flesh. You are not true Jews just because you were born of Jewish parents, or because you have gone through the ceremony of circumcision. (John 8:37-39).

²⁹ But he is a Jew, which is one inwardly; and circumcision is that of the heart, in the spirit, and not in the letter; whose praise is not of men, but of God. A true Jew, or Christian is one whose heart is right with God. True circumcision is not obeying the letter of the law, but rather it is a change of heart produced by God's Spirit. (Circumcision of the heart). A person with a changed heart seeks praise from God, not from people. (Philippians 3:3). It's the circumcision of the heart that is important. We rely on what Christ Jesus has done for us through the crucifixion for our salvation. Put no confidence in man to save you, they can't even save themselves. "Christ does the saving."

Romans 3

1 What advantage then hath the Jew? or what profit is there of circumcision? Is there any advantage of being a Jew, or any value in the ceremony of circumcision? (Romans 2:25-29).

² Much every way: chiefly, because that unto them were committed the oracles of God. Yes, at the time... The Jews were entrusted with the oracles of God. (Acts 7:38). Moses was the mediator between the people of Israel and the Angel of the Lord who gave them the law of God, "the living Word," on mount Sinai. (The Ten Commands written in stone by the finger of God).

³ For what if some did not believe? shall their unbelief make the faith of God without effect? Some of them were unfaithful, so does that mean that God will be unfaithful?

⁴ God forbid: yea, let God be true, but every man a liar; as it is written, That thou mightest be justified in thy sayings, and mightest overcome when thou art judged. Not at all... Even if everyone else is a liar, God is true. As the scriptures say: "You will be proved right in what you say, and you will win your case in court." Where is this written? (Psalm 51:4). 

⁵ But if our unrighteousness commend the righteousness of God, what shall we say? Is God unrighteous who taketh vengeance? (I speak as a man). You might say that our sinfulness serves a good purpose, because it helps people see how righteous God is. So, wouldn't it be unfair for Him to punish us? (This is a mans point of view).

⁶ God forbid: for then how shall God judge the world? Not at all... "God is entirely fair and qualified to judge the world."

⁷ For if the truth of God hath more abounded through my lie unto his glory; why yet am I also judged as a sinner? Some may say, "how can God condemn me as a sinner if my dishonesty highlights His truthfulness and brings Him more glory?"

⁸ And not rather, (as we be slanderously reported, and as some affirm that we say,) Let us do evil, that good may come? whose damnation is just. Some people even slander us by claiming that we say, "the more we sin, the better it is." Those who say such things deserve to be condemned. (Matthew 5:11, 1 Peter 3:16-17). Do this in a humble way and when they may speak evil of you, they will feel ashamed when they see the good life you live in Christ. It is better to suffer for doing the will of God, than to suffer for doing wrong.

⁹ What then? are we better than they? No, in no wise: for we have before proved both Jews and Gentiles, that they are all under sin. Should we conclude that Jews are better than others? Not at all... We have shown that all people whether Jews or Gentiles, are under the power of sin. (Romans 3:22, Galatians 3:10, 3:22). "Everyone sins no matter who you are."

¹⁰ As it is written, There is none righteous, no, not one. No one is truly righteous. 

¹¹ There is none that understandeth, there is none that seeketh after God. No one is truly wise like our Heavenly Father.

¹² They are all gone out of the way, they are together become unprofitable; there is none that doeth good, no, not one. All have turned away; all have become useless. "Not a single one does good." (Ecclesiastes 7:20, Isaiah 64:6).

¹³ Their throat is an open sepulchre; with their tongues they have used deceit; the poison of asps is under their lips. Their talk is foul, like the stench from an open grave. Their tongues are filled with lies. (James 3:5-8). The tongue is a small thing, but it can do a lot of damage. Building up ones self and taking all the credit. Judging others, gossip, false teachings. If you can't control your tongue, or teach the truth, keep your mouth shut!  

¹⁴ Whose mouth is full of cursing and bitterness. Swearing, cursing, bitterness and filth. (Psalm 10:7, 59:12, 109:17-18, James 3:10). Just listen to the mouths of the younger generations today.

¹⁵ Their feet are swift to shed blood. They rush to commit murder. (They will kill you today for a few dollars, or to get a fix).

¹⁶ Destruction and misery are in their ways. Destruction and misery follows them in everything they do.

¹⁷ And the way of peace have they not known. "They don't know where to find peace." (Isaiah 57:21, 59:8). You will never have true peace of mind without Christ and the Holy Spirit in your heart. (Matthew 7:14, Luke 1:79).

¹⁸ There is no fear of God before their eyes. "No fear of God at all." (Revelation 19:5). "Fear is revere." We are to revere God, not some man with a title.

¹⁹ Now we know that what things soever the law saith, it saith to them who are under the law: that every mouth may be stopped, and all the world may become guilty before God. The law is our schoolmaster and it shows us that the entire world is guilty before God. "The ten commandments are a good example to show us the difference between right and wrong."

²⁰ Therefore by the deeds of the law there shall no flesh be justified in his sight: for by the law is the knowledge of sin. No one can be made right with God by doing what the law commands. "The law simply shows us how sinful we are."

²¹ But now the righteousness of God without the law is manifested, being witnessed by the law and the prophets. But now, at present time, God shows us a way to be made right with Him without keeping the requirements of the law, as was promised in the writings of Moses and the prophets long ago. (Deuteronomy 18:15-19, Luke 24:44, John 1:45, Acts 26:22). "Now we have Jesus Christ who came to fulfill the law." (John 3:14-15, 5:46-47, Hebrews 10:1-14). 

²² Even the righteousness of God which is by faith of Jesus Christ unto all and upon all them that believe: for there is no difference. We are made right with God by placing our faith in Jesus Christ. "For all who believe in Him." (Galatians 3:28). "We are all Christians and now all one in Christ." (Romans 10:12, John 10:16, 17:21).

²³ For all have sinned, and come short of the glory of God. We are all sinners and fall short of God's standards. (1 John 1:8-10). If we say we will never sin, we are only fooling ourselves and refusing to accept the truth. Many believe that once you are saved you cannot sin. "Not so." We are all sinners as long as we are in this flesh body. If we confess our sins (to the heavenly father, not some man), we can count on God to wash away all our sins because Christ became that one time sacrifice for our sins. Again, if we say we have not sinned, we are lying to ourselves and we are calling God a liar, because He said we have all sinned. 

²⁴ Being justified freely by his grace through the redemption that is in Christ Jesus. Through Jesus Christ we our free from the penalty for our sins, "if we repent." (There is a condition here). Christ died for the sins of the world (Matthew 20:28). As long as we are in these flesh bodies, we are all going to fall short at times and sin. However, if we repent for our sins from a sincere heart, we are forgiven. 

²⁵ Whom God hath set forth to be a propitiation through faith in his blood, to declare his righteousness for the remission of sins that are past, through the forbearance of God. The Heavenly Father presented Jesus as the sacrifice for sin. People are made right with God when they believe that Jesus sacrificed His life, shedding His blood for the sins of the world. "This sacrifice shows that God was being fair when He held back, and did not punish those who sinned in times past." (Revelation 13:8). This goes as far back as the foundation of the world in the first earth age when the overthrow of Satan took place. If you are not familiar with what happened in the "first earth age," read our study topic titled: "Three Earth Ages." 

²⁶ To declare, I say, at this time his righteousness: that he might be just, and the justifier of him which believeth in Jesus. Looking ahead and including them in what He would do in this present time. "God is always fair." He declares sinners to be right in His sight when they believe in Jesus Christ. (Galatians 3:8-14).

²⁷ Where is boasting then? It is excluded. By what law? of works? Nay: but by the law of faith. Should we boast then? Not at all, because our acquittal is not based on obeying the law. "It is based on faith." (Galatians 2:16). They knew as Jewish Christians that they could not have salvation by obeying Jewish laws. They could only be right with God by having faith in Jesus Christ. "They knew this, but they were not practicing it." (Acts 13:38-39, Romans 1:17, Romans 8:3).

²⁸ Therefore we conclude that a man is justified by faith without the deeds of the law. So, we are made right with God through faith and not by obeying the law. (Galatians 3:8, 3:24). The scriptures told us of the gentiles in the future that would be saved through their faith. "I will bless those in every nation who trust in me." (Genesis 12:1-3). The Jewish laws were our teacher and guide until Christ came to give us right standing with God through faith. 

²⁹ Is he the God of the Jews only? is he not also of the Gentiles? Yes, of the Gentiles also. He is the God of all people. Jews and Gentiles alike. (Colossians 3:11). This new life has nothing to do with nationality, race, education, or social position. It is whether you have Christ within you that counts. Believe in Him and you become a Christian. "Christ is the only way to salvation." 

³⁰ Seeing it is one God, which shall justify the circumcision by faith, and uncircumcision through faith. There is only one God, and He makes people right with Him through faith, whether Jew or Gentile.

³¹ Do we then make void the law through faith? God forbid: yea, we establish the law. Does this mean that we forget about the law? "Of course not." In fact, only when we have faith are we truly fulfilling the law. As Christ would say: "Think not that I am come to destroy the law, or the prophets: I am not come to destroy, but to fulfill." (Matthew 5:17). Christ fulfilled the law, but the laws of God still stand. You may say what laws... "The Ten Commandments are a good start." Do your best to obey God's laws and the civil laws of our country, and you will do just fine.

Romans 4

1 What shall we say then that Abraham our father, as pertaining to the flesh, hath found? The Jews claiming that Abraham was the Father of the Jewish nation. What did he discover about being made right with God? (John 8:39, Acts 7:2).

² For if Abraham were justified by works, he hath whereof to glory; but not before God. In other words, if Abrahams deeds had made him acceptable to God, he would have something to boast about. However, that was not God's way.

³ For what saith the scripture? Abraham believed God, and it was counted unto him for righteousness. The scriptures tell us that "Abraham believed God, and God counted him righteous because of his faith." (Genesis 15:6, James 2:23).

⁴ Now to him that worketh is the reward not reckoned of grace, but of debt. i.e., when you work for a living, your wages are not a gift, but something you have earned.

⁵ But to him that worketh not, but believeth on him that justifieth the ungodly, his faith is counted for righteousness. But, spiritually speaking, people are counted righteous not because of their works, but because of their faith in God who forgives sinners. (Philippians 3:9). Not counting on righteousness through obeying the law, but rather become righteous through faith in Christ. Much of the law was nailed to the cross. (Colossians 2). This does not mean that we should not obey the laws of God. The commandments still apply to us all; yes we are all sinners, but through Christ and repentance we all can have salvation. "Paul would go on to say that becoming right with God depends on faith."

⁶ Even as David also describeth the blessedness of the man, unto whom God imputeth righteousness without works. David also spoke of this when he describes the happiness of those who are declared righteous without works. (Psalm 32:1-5). Paul cites the Psalm of David where he says: "blessed is he whose transgression is forgiven, whose sin is covered. Blessed is the man unto whom the Lord imputes not iniquity, and in whose spirit there is not guile." So David says: "I acknowledged my sin unto thee, and my iniquity I have not hid. I said, I will confess my transgressions unto the Lord; and thou forgave the iniquity of my sin." (Psalm 32:5). This is the kind of trust we must put in the Lord when we put our faith in the Blood of Christ. David was not trying to justify himself. David hid nothing from the Lord. He acknowledged his sin, and making full confession, he cast himself before the mercy of the Lord. 

⁷ Saying, Blessed are they whose iniquities are forgiven, and whose sins are covered. Blessed are those whose sins are forgiven. (Psalm 32:1-2).

⁸ Blessed is the man to whom the Lord will not impute sin. Blessed are those that the Lord has cleared their record of sin. (When you repent of your sins, they are gone, and our Heavenly Father does not want to hear of them any longer). "You have a clean slate when it comes to sin."

⁹ Cometh this blessedness then upon the circumcision only, or upon the uncircumcision also? for we say that faith was reckoned to Abraham for righteousness. Is this blessing only for the Jews, or for the Gentiles also? Abraham (the Father of all nations), was counted as righteous by God because of his faith. (Romans 4:3).

¹⁰ How was it then reckoned? when he was in circumcision, or in uncircumcision? Not in circumcision, but in uncircumcision. In other words, was Abraham counted righteous by God before his circumcision, or after his circumcision? God accepted him before his circumcision. "Faith was reckoned to Abraham for righteousness," at least 14 years before he was circumcised; the former having taken place sometime before Ishmael's birth, at which time he was 86 years old, and the other when Ishmael was 13 years of age, and Abraham was 99 years old.

¹¹ And he received the sign of circumcision, a seal of the righteousness of the faith which he had yet being uncircumcised: that he might be the father of all them that believe, though they be not circumcised; that righteousness might be imputed unto them also. Circumcision was a sign that Abraham already had faith and that God had accepted him to be righteous before he was circumcised. (Kind of like when we come to Christ because of faith and are baptized). "We accepted Him and become circumcised in heart." (Deuteronomy 30:6, Colossians 2:11-13, Philippians 3:9). So, Abraham is the spiritual father of those who have faith, but have not been physically circumcised. "They are counted righteous because of their faith." (Galatians 3:29). If we are of Christ, then we are true descendants of Abraham, and all of the promises to him belong to us also. (Romans 8:17, 9:7, Hebrews 11:18).

¹² And the father of circumcision to them who are not of the circumcision only, but who also walk in the steps of that faith of our father Abraham, which he had being yet uncircumcised. Abraham is also the spiritual father of those who were circumcised, but only if they have the same kind of faith Abraham had before he was circumcised. (Proverbs 2:20, 1 Peter 2:21).

¹³ For the promise, that he should be the heir of the world, was not to Abraham, or to his seed, through the law, but through the righteousness of faith. We receive the promise given to Abraham not because of his obedience to God's law, but because of the right relationship with God through faith. (Galatians 3:29). If we are of Christ, then we are true descendants of Abraham, and all of the promises to him belong to us also. (Romans 8:17, 9:7, Hebrews 11:18).

¹⁴ For if they which are of the law be heirs, faith is made void, and the promise made of none effect. If God's promise is only for those who obey the law, then faith is not necessary and the promise is pointless. (Galatians 3:18-24, Philippians 3:9). Not counting on righteousness through obeying the law, but rather become righteous through faith in Christ. Much of the law was nailed to the cross. (Colossians 2). Again, This does not mean that we should not obey the laws of God. The ten commandments still stand. Paul would go on to say that becoming right with God depends on faith.

¹⁵ Because the law worketh wrath: for where no law is, there is no transgression. In other words, the law always brings punishment if you try to obey it, and the only way to avoid breaking the law is to have no law to break. (Galatians 3:10). Those who still depend on the law to save them are under God's curse, because the scriptures tell us very clearly, "Cursed is everyone who at any time breaks a single one of these laws." (Deuteronomy 27:26, Jeremiah 11:3).

¹⁶ Therefore it is of faith, that it might be by grace; to the end the promise might be sure to all the seed; not to that only which is of the law, but to that also which is of the faith of Abraham; who is the father of us all. The promise is received by faith as a free gift, and we can all receive it if we have faith like Abraham, who is the father of all who believe. (Galatians 3:7-12).

¹⁷ (As it is written, I have made thee a father of many nations,) before him whom he believed, even God, who quickeneth the dead, and calleth those things which be not as though they were. Abraham was made the father of many nations because he believed in God. The God of the living who brings the dead back to life and the creator of all things.

¹⁸ Who against hope believed in hope, that he might become the father of many nations, according to that which was spoken, So shall thy seed be. Abraham kept hoping and believing that he would become the father of many nations. God told how many descendants he would have. (Genesis 15:5-6).

¹⁹ And being not weak in faith, he considered not his own body now dead, when he was about an hundred years old, neither yet the deadness of Sarah's womb. Abrahams faith did not weaken when the Lord said that he and Sarah would have a child at their old age. (Genesis 17:17, 18:11-14).

²⁰ He staggered not at the promise of God through unbelief; but was strong in faith, giving glory to God. Abraham never wavered in believing God's promise, but rather his faith grew stronger and he brought glory to God.

²¹ And being fully persuaded that, what he had promised, he was able also to perform. He knew that God was able to deliver what ever He promised.

²² And therefore it was imputed to him for righteousness. Because of Abraham's faith, God counted him as righteous.

²³ Now it was not written for his sake alone, that it was imputed to him. When God counted Abraham as righteous, it was not just for his benefit.

²⁴ But for us also, to whom it shall be imputed, if we believe on him that raised up Jesus our Lord from the dead. It was for our benefit also, assuring us that God will also count us as righteous if we believe in Him, the one who raised Jesus from the dead.

²⁵ Who was delivered for our offences, and was raised again for our justification. Jesus was handed over to die because of our sins, and He was raised to life to make us right with God. (1 Peter 1:21). Through Christ you have come to trust God, placing your faith and hope in God because He raised Christ from the dead and gave Him great glory. "Praise The Lord!"

Romans 5

1 Therefore being justified by faith, we have peace with God through our Lord Jesus Christ. When we are right with God because of our faith in Him; we will then have peace with God, and peace of mind. This is because of what Jesus Christ our Lord has done for us. (Hebrews 13:20). It was God who brought Jesus back from the dead, "the great Shepherd of the sheep," who shed His blood of the everlasting covenant. (Matthew 26:28).

² By whom also we have access by faith into this grace wherein we stand, and rejoice in hope of the glory of God. Because of our faith, Christ has brought us into a privileged place where we now stand, that we can joyfully and confidently look forward to sharing God's glory. (Ephesians 2:18, 3:12). "Oneness in the spirit." We may all come to God the Father with the Holy Spirits help. i.e., Christ is that door that we must enter through. (John 10:7, 10:9 14:16). "Christ is the only way to the Heavenly Father."

³ And not only so, but we glory in tribulations also: knowing that tribulation worketh patience. In other words, when we have problems and trials (which we will), we know that it will make us stronger and will develop our endurance. (James 1:2-3). Again, If your life is full of difficulties and temptations, be happy and don't worry. When times are rough your patience has a chance to grow.

⁴ And patience, experience; and experience, hope. Endurance develops strength of character, and character strengthens our confidence of salvation.

⁵ And hope maketh not ashamed; because the love of God is shed abroad in our hearts by the Holy Ghost which is given unto us. This hope we have will not lead to disappointment because our Heavenly Father loves us dearly. He has given us the "Holy Spirit" to fill our hearts with His love. (Ephesians 1:13). Because of what Christ did, all those who heard the Good News about how to be saved, and trusted Christ, were marked as belonging to Christ by the Holy Spirit. "It is the Holy Spirit that seals all those promises."

⁶ For when we were yet without strength, in due time Christ died for the ungodly. When we were utterly helpless, Christ came at just the right time and died for all us sinners. (Galatians 4:4, 1 Peter 1:20). God chose Him as your ransom long before the world began, but has revealed Him to you in the last days.

⁷ For scarcely for a righteous man will one die: yet peradventure for a good man some would even dare to die. In other words, most people would not be willing to die for an upright person, though someone might be willing to die for a person who is especially good. (John 15:13, 1 John 3:16). So, do not be afraid to go a little out of your way to help one who needs spiritual help. Christ went out of His way for you.

⁸ But God commendeth his love toward us, in that, while we were yet sinners, Christ died for us. God showed His great love for us by sending Christ to die for us while we were still sinners. (What greater love is that). "This always brings me to one of the most important verses in the bible." For God so loved the world, that He gave His only begotten Son, that whosover believeth in Him should not perish, but have everlasting life. (John 3:16). Learn it, know it, believe it. "If you want to be a true Christian."

⁹ Much more then, being now justified by his blood, we shall be saved from wrath through him. Since we have been made right with God by the blood of Christ as believers, He will certainly save us from the wrath of God to come in the end times. (1 Thessalonians 1:10).

¹⁰ For if, when we were enemies, we were reconciled to God by the death of his Son, much more, being reconciled, we shall be saved by his life. Since our friendship with God was restored by the death of His Son while we were still His enemies, now we can rest assure that we will be saved through the life of His Son. (John 6:40, 10:28-29, 11:25-26).

¹¹ And not only so, but we also joy in God through our Lord Jesus Christ, by whom we have now received the atonement. Now we can rejoice in our awesome new relationship with God because of our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ, "who has made us friends with God."

¹² Wherefore, as by one man sin entered into the world, and death by sin; and so death passed upon all men, for that all have sinned. When Adam sinned, sin first entered the world. His sin brought death, so death spread to everyone, for everyone sinned. (Genesis 2:17). God warned Adam what would happen if he did not listen. (To this day we are warned what happens when we do not listen to God, but of course man always wants to work it out his own way).

¹³ For until the law sin was in the world: but sin is not imputed when there is no law. People sinned even before the law was given, but it was not counted as sin because there was not yet any law to break. (Genesis 4:7-11). Cain was the first murderer when he killed Abel even though the sixth commandment "thou shall not kill," was not in effect yet.

¹⁴ Nevertheless death reigned from Adam to Moses, even over them that had not sinned after the similitude of Adam's transgression, who is the figure of him that was to come. Still everyone died from the time of Adam to the time of Moses, even those who did not disobey any explicit commandment of God as Adam did. Adam being a symbol, a representation of Christ, who was yet to come. In what way? Adam as the root of sin and death to all, and Christ being the root of holiness and life to all. "i.e. Adam did one act that affected us all, and Christ did one act that affected us all."

¹⁵ But not as the offence, so also is the free gift. For if through the offence of one many be dead, much more the grace of God, and the gift by grace, which is by one man, Jesus Christ, hath abounded unto many. Here is the difference between Adam's sin and God's gracious gift. The sin of Adam brought death to many, but God's wonderful grace and His gift of forgiveness was brought forth to many through another Man, Jesus Christ. (John 3:16). "Christ brings us life."

¹⁶ And not as it was by one that sinned, so is the gift: for the judgment was by one to condemnation, but the free gift is of many offences unto justification. The result of God's gracious gift is very different from the result of Adams sin. How? Adams sin brought judgment and resulted in our condemnation. The free gift of Jesus Christ came because of our many offenses. Jesus had to die for us because we deserved death. Because of God's grace, He didn't want us to pay for our sins. So, the free gift of Jesus resulted in our justification, being declared righteous. (Acts 13:38-39). 

¹⁷ For if by one man's offence death reigned by one; much more they which receive abundance of grace and of the gift of righteousness shall reign in life by one, Jesus Christ. As the sin of this one man Adam, caused death to rule over many. Greater is God's wonderful grace and His gift of righteousness, for all who will receive it will live and triumph over sin and death through this one Man, Jesus Christ. (1 Corinthians 15:21-22).

¹⁸ Therefore as by the offence of one judgment came upon all men to condemnation; even so by the righteousness of one the free gift came upon all men unto justification of life. As Adams one sin brings condemnation for everyone, Christ's one act of righteousness brings a good relationship with God and "new life" to everyone. This shows how Adam is a "type" of Christ. "It was one act of Adam that affected all of mankind, and one act of Christ that affected all of mankind."

¹⁹ For as by one man's disobedience many were made sinners, so by the obedience of one shall many be made righteous. Because one person disobeyed God, many became sinners. However, because one other person obeyed God, many will be made righteous. "That person would be Jesus Christ." (2 Corinthians 5:21). Christ knew no sin, but He was the offering for our sins. "So that we could be made right with God through Christ."

²⁰ Moreover the law entered, that the offence might abound. But where sin abounded, grace did much more abound. The law of God was given so that all people could see how sinful they were. But as people sinned more and more, God's wonderful grace became more abundant also.

²¹ That as sin hath reigned unto death, even so might grace reign through righteousness unto eternal life by Jesus Christ our Lord. So, just as sin ruled over all people and brought them death, God's wonderful grace now rules instead. This makes us right with God and results in eternal life through Jesus Christ our Lord and Savior. (1 John 5:11-13). Through the Word of God, His record; God has given us eternal life through Christ. "Your choice." Eternal life through Christ, or death through Satan. Yes, the devil holds the power of death! (Hebrews 2:14). But, Satan's power was broken by the crucifixion of Jesus Christ. "Stay in Christ and you never need to fear death."

Romans 6

1 What shall we say then? Shall we continue in sin, that grace may abound? The question here is that, should we keep on sinning so that God will show us more of His grace and forgiveness? (1 Peter 2:16). You are a free servant of God, but don't use your freedom as an excuse to do evil. Don't be a scammer, liar, and con artist, especially when doing God's work. (If you keep tempting God, He will stop you in your tracks and give you correction).

² God forbid. How shall we, that are dead to sin, live any longer therein? As Christians we have died to sin, so how can we continue to live in it? We all fall short at times, and upon repentance we have a clean slate again making us right with God. But, we should do our best not to fall back into sinning. (1 Peter 1:14). Do not slip back into the ways of the world and traditions of men. (Those lusting after lies and religion). Christianity is "real life," not religion.

³ Know ye not, that so many of us as were baptized into Jesus Christ were baptized into his death? When we were joined with Christ in baptism, we joined Him in His death. (Galatians 2:20-21). Paul was explaining that his old self was crucified with Christ; and now Christ lives within him by accepting Christ and believing in Him. (Romans 6:6, 2 Corinthians 5:15). This is what baptism is all about. Symbolically being buried with Christ and resurrecting to a new person with Christ living within you. Don't treat Christ's death meaningless. If you could be saved by keeping the law, then there was no need for Christ to die. (Hebrews 7:11). Christ paid an awesome price with His life so that we can all have everlasting life. (John 3:16).

⁴ Therefore we are buried with him by baptism into death: that like as Christ was raised up from the dead by the glory of the Father, even so we also should walk in newness of life. When we are buried with Christ by baptism we are raised to live new lives. Just as Christ was raised from the dead by the glorious power of the Heavenly Father. (1 John 2:6). Anyone who says they are a Christian should try to live as Christ did. "Christ walked it perfect but we cannot." We are always going to mess up and sin at times and Christ knows it. He just wants us to hang with Him as you would a good friend and He will set the example. We just need to do our best to follow.

⁵ For if we have been planted together in the likeness of his death, we shall be also in the likeness of his resurrection. We have been united with Christ in His death, so we will also be raised to life as He was. (John 12:24). i.e., it is like when you plant a seed in the ground. The seed must first die before it will bring forth new fruit.

⁶ Knowing this, that our old man is crucified with him, that the body of sin might be destroyed, that henceforth we should not serve sin. Our old sinful selves were crucified with Christ so that sin might lose its power over us in our daily lives. "There is no excuse." We are no longer slaves to sin or the devil. (Galatians 5:24). Those who belong to Christ have nailed their natural evil desires to the cross and crucified them there. (Colossians 6:8-10).

⁷ For he that is dead is freed from sin. When we died with Christ we are set free from the power of sin. "We are no longer in bondage of sin, false teachings and traditions of men."

⁸ Now if we be dead with Christ, we believe that we shall also live with him. Since we died with Christ and became a new person, we can be sure that we will also live with Him. (Colossians 3:3-4). Your desires of this world should be as a dead person. "Your real life is eternal with God in heaven."

⁹ Knowing that Christ being raised from the dead dieth no more; death hath no more dominion over him. How can we be sure of this? Because when Christ was raised from the dead, He defeated death and the one who holds the power of death (that is the devil); (Hebrews 2:14), and Christ will never die again. Death no longer has any power over Him. "Christ holds the keys to hell and death." (Revelation 1:18).

¹⁰ For in that he died, he died unto sin once: but in that he liveth, he liveth unto God. Christ died once to break the power of sin and the power of the devil. But now that He lives, He lives for the glory of God the Father. He is not the God of the dead, but the God of the living. (Luke 20:38).

¹¹ Likewise reckon ye also yourselves to be dead indeed unto sin, but alive unto God through Jesus Christ our Lord. So then, you should also consider ourselves to be dead to the power of sin and alive to God through Jesus Christ. (John 20:31).

¹² Let not sin therefore reign in your mortal body, that ye should obey it in the lusts thereof. Always try your best not to let sin control the way you live, and do not give into sinful desires. Ask the Heavenly Father for help when you need it and He will always show you a way out. (1 Corinthians 10:13). God will never let you be tempted with more that you can handle.

¹³ Neither yield ye your members as instruments of unrighteousness unto sin: but yield yourselves unto God, as those that are alive from the dead, and your members as instruments of righteousness unto God. Try your best to never let any part of your body become an instrument of evil to serve sin. Instead, give yourselves completely to God. Remember that you were spiritually dead, but now you have new life through Jesus Christ. So do your best to use your whole body as an instrument to do what is right for the glory of God. (1 Peter 4:2). With the help of the Holy Spirit within you, it will be easier to ward off worldly desires and do the will of God.

¹⁴ For sin shall not have dominion over you: for ye are not under the law, but under grace. Sin should no longer be your master because you are no longer under the requirements of the law. You are free from bondage and you can live under the freedom of God's grace. (John 1:17).

¹⁵ What then? shall we sin, because we are not under the law, but under grace? God forbid. Does this mean because God's grace has set us free from the law that we can go on sinning and ignore the law? "Not at all." "We are still under the law of the Ten Commandments." Break one of these commandments and see what it brings you. Lets take a couple of examples. If you steel something from a store and get caught, you will be prosecuted. Commit murder and chances are you will end up in jail for a long time, or may receive the death penalty. You get the picture. "Christ did not come to destroy the law, but to fulfill the law." (Mathew 5:17).

¹⁶ Know ye not, that to whom ye yield yourselves servants to obey, his servants ye are to whom ye obey; whether of sin unto death, or of obedience unto righteousness? It is your choice, either you can become a slave to sin which leads to death, or you can choose to obey God, which leads to righteous living.

¹⁷ But God be thanked, that ye were the servants of sin, but ye have obeyed from the heart that form of doctrine which was delivered you. Once you were slaves to sin, but now you have the teachings in the Word of God to wholeheartedly obey. It is God's personal letter to you, so read it, study it, and do your best to live it.

¹⁸ Being then made free from sin, ye became the servants of righteousness. Now that you are free from the slavery to sin, you have become slaves to righteous living. "Again, it's your choice."

¹⁹ I speak after the manner of men because of the infirmity of your flesh: for as ye have yielded your members servants to uncleanness and to iniquity unto iniquity; even so now yield your members servants to righteousness unto holiness. Paul used this illustration of slavery to help us understand all this. When you are slaves to impurity and lawlessness, it only leads you deeper into sin. Now you must give yourselves to be slaves to righteous living so that you will become holy and right with God.

²⁰ For when ye were the servants of sin, ye were free from righteousness. When you are a slave to sin, you are free from the obligation to do right. (John 8:34).

²¹ What fruit had ye then in those things whereof ye are now ashamed? for the end of those things is death. What is the result of being a slave to sin? You are now ashamed of the things you used to do, things that end in eternal doom. (James 1:15). Evil thoughts bring forth evil actions and can lead to the death penalty from God.

²² But now being made free from sin, and become servants to God, ye have your fruit unto holiness, and the end everlasting life. As a true Christian and a believer, you are free from the power of sin and have become a slave to God. Now you can do the things that lead to holiness and the result will be eternal life.

²³ For the wages of sin is death; but the gift of God is eternal life through Jesus Christ our Lord. Again, it is your choice. The wages of sin is death, but the free gift of God leads to eternal life through Jesus Christ our Lord and Savior. (John 4:36).

Romans 7

1 Know ye not, brethren, (for I speak to them that know the law,) how that the law hath dominion over a man as long as he liveth? Paul is especially speaking to them that know the law and is going to give an explanation and example here that the law only applies to a person while they are living.

² For the woman which hath an husband is bound by the law to her husband so long as he liveth; but if the husband be dead, she is loosed from the law of her husband. Here comes the example. When a woman marries, the law binds her to the husband as long as he is alive. But, if he dies, the laws of marriage no longer apply to her. She is free to marry again. (This would also apply to the man).

³ So then if, while her husband liveth, she be married to another man, she shall be called an adulteress: but if her husband be dead, she is free from that law; so that she is no adulteress, though she be married to another man. If the woman were to marry another man while she was married, she would be committing adultery. But if her husband dies, she is free from that law and does not commit adultery if she were to remarry. (Again, this applies to both man or woman). Never let any religious organization or some man tell you that you cannot remarry again. "They are lying to you."

⁴ Wherefore, my brethren, ye also are become dead to the law by the body of Christ; that ye should be married to another, even to him who is raised from the dead, that we should bring forth fruit unto God. Now we come to the point that Paul is trying to make. We die to the power of the law when we die with Christ in baptism, or the circumcision of the heart. (When we accept Christ and become believers). Now we become united with the One who was raised from the dead. The results from this is that we can be free from the law and produce a harvest of good deeds for God. (Colossians 1:10).

⁵ For when we were in the flesh, the motions of sins, which were by the law, did work in our members to bring forth fruit unto death. When we were controlled by our old nature, our sinful desires worked within us. The law (Mosaic law), aroused these evil desires that produced a harvest of sinful deeds that would result in death. (Galatians 5:19-21, James 1:15). When you follow your way of the flesh you produce evil results. Impure thoughts and eagerness for lustful pleasures.

⁶ But now we are delivered from the law, that being dead wherein we were held; that we should serve in newness of spirit, and not in the oldness of the letter. We have been released from the law, for we died to it and are no longer captive to it's power. Now we can serve the living God, not by obeying the letter of the law the old way, but now by the new way of living in the Spirit. (Galatians 2:19-20). It is through the scriptures that we realize we cannot find favor with God by keeping the law. Acceptance with God comes by believing in Christ. (Romans 6:14, Hebrews 9:14). Paul would explain that his old self was crucified with Christ; and now Christ lives within him by accepting Christ and believing in Him. (Romans 6:6, 2 Corinthians 5:15). This is what baptism is all about. Symbolically being buried with Christ and resurrecting to a new person with Christ living within you.

⁷ What shall we say then? Is the law sin? God forbid. Nay, I had not known sin, but by the law: for I had not known lust, except the law had said, Thou shalt not covet. Are we saying that the law of God is sinful? "No way." The law is the schoolmaster that shows us our sin. We would never even know what sin is if the law had not been given. For example, lets take the tenth commandment. We would have never known that coveting is wrong if the law had not said, "You must not covet." (Deuteronomy 5:21).

⁸ But sin, taking occasion by the commandment, wrought in me all manner of concupiscence. For without the law sin was dead. Sin used this commandment not to covet, to arouse these desires within us. If there were no law, sin would not have that power. In other words, where there is no law, there is no transgression; for sin is the transgression of the law. (Romans 4:15, 1 Corinthians 15:56). The law is good and lets you know when you are sinning so you can do something about it. (Most of the ordinances were done away with, but the law will never change).

⁹ For I was alive without the law once: but when the commandment came, sin revived, and I died. Paul is telling us that one time he lived without understanding the law. But when he learned the commandment not to covet, for example, the power of sin came to life.

¹⁰ And the commandment, which was ordained to life, I found to be unto death. Paul discover that the law's commandments, which were supposed to bring life, brought spiritual death instead.

¹¹ For sin, taking occasion by the commandment, deceived me, and by it slew me. Sin took advantage of those commandments and deceived me, Paul was saying. He would go on to say that "sin used the commandments to kill me."

¹² Wherefore the law is holy, and the commandment holy, and just, and good. However, the law itself is holy, and it's commandments are holy and right, and they are good. (1 Timothy 1:8). These laws are good when used as God intended. "Know the law."

¹³ Was then that which is good made death unto me? God forbid. But sin, that it might appear sin, working death in me by that which is good; that sin by the commandment might become exceeding sinful. How is this possible? Does the law which is good cause our death? "Not at all." Sin used what was good to bring about our condemnation to death. It uses God's good commandments for it's own evil purposes. (James 1:13-15).

¹⁴ For we know that the law is spiritual: but I am carnal, sold under sin. The trouble is not with the law, but rather with man, who is a slave to sin. (2 Corinthians 3:3). Your heart has the teachings of Christ within, and your works should prove it.

¹⁵ For that which I do I allow not: for what I would, that do I not; but what I hate, that do I. Paul always had a problem with this as I believe many do today. We always want to do right, but many times we do what we hate. (Ecclesiastes 7:20, 1 John 1:7-8). If we say we will never sin, we are only fooling ourselves and refusing to accept the truth. Many believe that once you are saved you cannot sin. Not so... "We are all sinners as long as we are in this flesh body."

¹⁶ If then I do that which I would not, I consent unto the law that it is good. If I know that what I am doing is wrong, this shows that I agree that the law is good. (Psalms 119:127-128).

¹⁷ Now then it is no more I that do it, but sin that dwelleth in me. It is not necessarily us that does the wrong. It is the sins within us that is doing wrong. We need to listen more to our good spirit within (the Holy Spirit), and not the evil spirit that entices the flesh man.

¹⁸ For I know that in me (that is, in my flesh,) dwelleth no good thing: for to will is present with me; but how to perform that which is good I find not. Nothing good lives within us concerning our sinful nature. When we listen to our sinful nature within, we cannot do what is right. (Galatians 5:17). Our flesh always wants to do wrong and what is the opposite, or against the Holy Spirit. Just as the Holy Spirit wants to do what is right and what is the opposite or against the flesh.

¹⁹ For the good that I would I do not: but the evil which I would not, that I do. Paul keeps emphasizing this; I want to do what is good, but I don't. I don't want to do what is wrong, but I do it anyway. (Describing the average man).

²⁰ Now if I do that I would not, it is no more I that do it, but sin that dwelleth in me. So, if we do what we don't want to do, we are not really the one doing wrong; it is the sin living in us that does it. (Romans 7:17). "Satan always finds a way to arouse the sinful self within us."

²¹ I find then a law, that, when I would do good, evil is present with me. We see a law that is good, but the evil nature that is present within us wants to break that law. Example: Lets take the eighth commandment. "Thou shalt not steal." We were all probably taught this at an early age. But, lets say we are at work in the office and we see this box of pens laying around, and we say to ourselves, they won't miss one pen and I could use one of these at home, so we take it. Now we know it was wrong according to the law, but our sinful nature within says; it's only a pen and no big deal, so go ahead and take it, they won't mind. Now we could of asked for the pen, and they would probably have given it to us, but instead we stole it and broke the law. So, then we can see how the law worked on correcting us and taught us what we did was wrong. (That is why we can say that the law is good and our schoolmaster).

²² For I delight in the law of God after the inward man. So, we should love the law with all our heart.

²³ But I see another law in my members, warring against the law of my mind, and bringing me into captivity to the law of sin which is in my members. I call it "the war within." (Galatians 5:17). Again, Our flesh always wants to do wrong and what is the opposite, or against the Holy Spirit. Just as the Holy Spirit wants to do what is right and what is the opposite, or against the flesh. "For every negative there is a positive." (There is an evil spirit that dwells within us, as well as the Holy Spirit that dwells within us). As long as we are in these flesh bodies, we are going to have this battle within.

²⁴ O wretched man that I am! who shall deliver me from the body of this death? Again, Paul always had a problem with this, like many of us today. How miserable we can be in these flesh bodies at times. Who will free us from this life that is dominated by sin and death. "You should know who the only one is that can free us from this dilemma."

²⁵ I thank God through Jesus Christ our Lord. So then with the mind I myself serve the law of God; but with the flesh the law of sin. The answer is "Jesus Christ our Lord and Savior." So, this is how it is: In our minds we really want to obey God's law, but because of our sinful nature we are a slave to sin. Thank God, through "Jesus Christ" we have a chance, and we will get the victory. (1 Corinthians 15:57).

Romans 8

1 There is therefore now no condemnation to them which are in Christ Jesus, who walk not after the flesh, but after the Spirit. No condemnation for those who believe in Christ and walk after the spirit. (Galatians 5:16, 5:25, Titus 2:11-14). However, there are conditions here. First we must be believers in Christ, then we must try our best to walk after the Spirit (the Holy Spirit), and not after the flesh. We need to know Christ through His Word, and we need to live in this world with common sense and wisdom. (You can't just play church and expect to receive blessings from God).

² For the law of the Spirit of life in Christ Jesus hath made me free from the law of sin and death. Because we believe in Christ and walk after the Spirit, we belong to Christ. Because we belong to Christ, the Spiritual law of life has freed us from the power of sin that leads to death. (2 Corinthians 3:17, Galatians 5:1). "Christ has made us free." (John 8:32). Make sure you stay free and don't get all tied up in the chains of slavery to the Jewish laws and ceremonies. (Acts 15:10). Don't get tied up under bondage to any religion, organization, or traditions of men. Think for yourself, Gods personal letter (the bible), was written for you.  

³ For what the law could not do, in that it was weak through the flesh, God sending his own Son in the likeness of sinful flesh, and for sin, condemned sin in the flesh. The law was unable to save us because of the weakness of our sinful nature. God did what the law could not do by sending His Son in a body like ours. Yes, a flesh body just like we sinners have with all the temptations. "As an example to us, Jesus walked in righteousness without sin." In that body God declared an end to sin's control over us by giving His only begotten Son as a sacrifice for all our sins. (2 Corinthians 5:21). So, how can we walk in righteousness being led by the Spirit and become better Christians in this world? (1 Peter 4:1-2). Arm yourself with the gospel armor (the Word of God), for Christ is that Word. This will make it easier to fight off temptation. When you suffer for Christ, even when you sin at times, your sins are forgiven upon repentance.

⁴ That the righteousness of the law might be fulfilled in us, who walk not after the flesh, but after the Spirit. God did this so the requirement of the law would be fulfilled for us, who once walked after the flesh, but now follows the Spirit. Christ would say Himself: Think not that I am come to destroy the law, or the prophets: I am not come to destroy, but to fulfil. (Matthew 5:17).

⁵ For they that are after the flesh do mind the things of the flesh; but they that are after the Spirit the things of the Spirit. Those who are dominated by the sinful nature do sinful things. Those who are controlled by the Holy Spirit do good things that please the Spirit. (Galatians 5:22-25, Ephesians 5:9, Colossians 3:1-3).

⁶ For to be carnally minded is death; but to be spiritually minded is life and peace. If you let your sinful nature control your mind, this will lead to death. If you let the Holy Spirit control your mind it leads to eternal life in the next life, and peace of mind in this world. (Galatians 6:8). If you search out doctrine or material things to please your flesh, you will reap a harvest of spiritual decay and death. But, if you search and plant good sound doctrine and truth in the Word (good things of the spirit), then you will reap the everlasting life which the Holy Spirit offers.

⁷ Because the carnal mind is enmity against God: for it is not subject to the law of God, neither indeed can be. The sinful nature is always against God. It never obeyed God's laws, and it never will.

⁸ So then they that are in the flesh cannot please God. If you let your flesh control you, you can never please God. (Galatians 5:17). Our flesh always wants to do wrong and what is the opposite, or against the Holy Spirit. Just as the Holy Spirit wants to do what is right and what is the opposite, or against the flesh. (Romans 7:15, 7:23).

⁹ But ye are not in the flesh, but in the Spirit, if so be that the Spirit of God dwell in you. Now if any man have not the Spirit of Christ, he is none of his. Here is the condition again. You are only controlled by the Spirit, if you have the Spirit of God (the Holy Spirit), living in you. And remember, those who do not have the Spirit of Christ living in them do not belong to Him at all. (1 Corinthians 3:16, Ephesians 1:13, 1 John 3:24).

¹⁰ And if Christ be in you, the body is dead because of sin; but the Spirit is life because of righteousness. When this physical body dies because of sin, the Holy Spirit gives you life, because you have been made right with God as a believer. (Romans 5:21, Philippians 3:9). Not counting on righteousness through obeying the law, but rather become righteous through faith in Christ. Much of the law was nailed to the cross. (Colossians 2). This does not mean that we should not obey the laws of God. The commandments still apply to us all; yes we may fall short at times and we are all sinners, but through Christ and repentance we all can have salvation. Paul explains to us that becoming right with God depends on faith.

¹¹ But if the Spirit of him that raised up Jesus from the dead dwell in you, he that raised up Christ from the dead shall also quicken your mortal bodies by his Spirit that dwelleth in you. The same Spirit of God who raised Jesus from the dead lives in you. (If you are a believer), and just as God raised Christ from the dead, He will give life to your mortal bodies by this same Spirit. (John 14:17). The world at large cannot receive Him, because they are not looking for Him and do not recognize Him. "If you do not get to know Christ through His Word, you will never know who He really is." This may lead you to the antichrist at his return in the near future. Remember that Satan comes first pretending to be Christ and will deceive many because they do not know Christ. Do not be deceived!

¹² Therefore, brethren, we are debtors, not to the flesh, to live after the flesh. In other words, you have no obligation to follow your sinful nature as it urges you to sin. "Take control of your mind through meditation in the Word."

¹³ For if ye live after the flesh, ye shall die: but if ye through the Spirit do mortify the deeds of the body, ye shall live. If you live as your flesh body dictates, you will die. However, if you live through the power of the Holy Spirit, you break that bondage of your sinful nature and you will live.

¹⁴ For as many as are led by the Spirit of God, they are the sons of God. If you are led by the Spirit, you are a true child of God. (Galatians 3:26).

¹⁵ For ye have not received the spirit of bondage again to fear; but ye have received the Spirit of adoption, whereby we cry, Abba, Father. When receiving the Holy Spirit, it is not a Spirit that makes you a fearful slave. Instead, you have received God's Spirit that has adopted you as His own child. "Now we can call Him our Spiritual Father." (John 3:6, 20:17).

¹⁶ The Spirit itself beareth witness with our spirit, that we are the children of God. God's Spirit joins with our spirit to affirm that we are His children. (1 John 4:13). God gave us the gift of the "Holy Spirit" to dwell in our hearts to show us that He will live in us, and us in Him.

¹⁷ And if children, then heirs; heirs of God, and joint-heirs with Christ; if so be that we suffer with him, that we may be also glorified together. As God's children together with Christ we are heirs of God's glory. However, if we share in the glory, we must also share in the suffering. (Philippians 1:29, 2 Timothy 2:10-14).

¹⁸ For I reckon that the sufferings of this present time are not worthy to be compared with the glory which shall be revealed in us. What little suffering we must endure now, compares nothing to the glory He will reveal to us later.

¹⁹ For the earnest expectation of the creature waiteth for the manifestation of the sons of God. All creation is waiting for that day when God will reveal who His children really are.

²⁰ For the creature was made subject to vanity, not willingly, but by reason of him who hath subjected the same in hope. All creation was subject to God's curse, but with hope.

²¹ Because the creature itself also shall be delivered from the bondage of corruption into the glorious liberty of the children of God. The creation looks forward to the day when it will join God's children in freedom from death. (2 Peter 3:13). We look forward as well as creation itself, to the new heaven and earth as He promised, with a world filled with God's righteousness.

²² For we know that the whole creation groaneth and travaileth in pain together until now. All creation has been groaning together in pain up to the present time.

²³ And not only they, but ourselves also, which have the firstfruits of the Spirit, even we ourselves groan within ourselves, waiting for the adoption, to wit, the redemption of our body. As believers we also long for our bodies to be released from sin and suffering. Eagerly waiting with hope when God will give us our full right as His adopted children. A new spiritual body with eternal life that He has promised us. (Luke 20:36. Philippians 3:20-21). Our citizenship is in heaven where the Lord is; we are waiting for Him to return as our Savior. He will change our weak flesh bodies into glorious spiritual bodies like His own. Using the same power with which He will bring all things under His control.

²⁴ For we are saved by hope: but hope that is seen is not hope: for what a man seeth, why doth he yet hope for? We are given this hope when we become believers. If we already have something, we don't need to hope for it.

²⁵ But if we hope for that we see not, then do we with patience wait for it. If we are looking forward to something we don't have, we must be patient and confident that it will come. (James 1:3-4, Revelation 14:12). Those who are steadfast and keep the faith in the true Christ.

²⁶ Likewise the Spirit also helpeth our infirmities: for we know not what we should pray for as we ought: but the Spirit itself maketh intercession for us with groanings which cannot be uttered. The Holy Spirit helps us in our weakness. Sometimes we don't even know what God wants us to pray for, or what we need. So, we let the Holy Spirit help us with "groanings" Strong's Concordance G4726 "stenagmos" meaning "a sigh" a deep breath, which cannot be uttered. "Not a bunch of murmuring and grumbling of words, or sounds that mean nothing." I know that this may offend some churches that believe in speaking in tongues, chanting, and repetitious groaning. "That just turns people off." (Teach it as it is written in God's Word, not traditions of men and silly rituals).

²⁷ And he that searcheth the hearts knoweth what is the mind of the Spirit, because he maketh intercession for the saints according to the will of God. Our Heavenly Father knows all hearts and knows what the Spirit is saying. Our Spirit itself is in harmony with God's will. (1 John 5:14-15). We can be sure that God will listen to us whenever we ask for anything in line with His will. (Ask for things of the spirit, or wisdom, to help you in teaching His Word). "God loves that."

²⁸ And we know that all things work together for good to them that love God, to them who are the called according to his purpose. God causes everything to work together for the good of those who love Him, and are called according to His purpose. "Notice it says, called according to His purpose." In other words, if you ask God for something to further His ministry and purpose, He will always grant it. He wants it to benefit the whole family of God, not just you.

²⁹ For whom he did foreknow, he also did predestinate to be conformed to the image of his Son, that he might be the firstborn among many brethren. God knew you before you were even born in the first earth age. You were chosen to become like His Son, so that His Son would be the firstborn among many brothers and sisters. If you do not understand about the first earth age, read our newsletter study topic titled: "Three Earth Ages."

³⁰ Moreover whom he did predestinate, them he also called: and whom he called, them he also justified: and whom he justified, them he also glorified. Again, chosen in the first earth age, God called them to come to Him. He gave them right standing with Him because they stood against Satan in the first earth age. Those who He gave this good standing, He also gave them His glory. "In the same way that many are justified even today as believers in the name our Lord Jesus Christ."

³¹ What shall we then say to these things? If God be for us, who can be against us? So then, What can we say but, "If God is for us, who can be against us."

³² He that spared not his own Son, but delivered him up for us all, how shall he not with him also freely give us all things? Since God gave His only begotten Son for us all; as believers and His children, don't you think He will give us everything else?

³³ Who shall lay any thing to the charge of God's elect? It is God that justifieth. No one can charge one of God's elect. He has given them right standing with Himself. (God's love secures us from all that would accuse us).

³⁴ Who is he that condemneth? It is Christ that died, yea rather, that is risen again, who is even at the right hand of God, who also maketh intercession for us. "No one can condemn us." Christ died for us and was raised from the dead to new life for us. He is sitting on the right hand of God in our favor. (Hebrews 9:24, 1 Peter 3:22).

³⁵ Who shall separate us from the love of Christ? shall tribulation, or distress, or persecution, or famine, or nakedness, or peril, or sword? Can anything separate us from Christ's love? "Nothing should separate us"

³⁶ As it is written, For thy sake we are killed all the day long; we are accounted as sheep for the slaughter. The scriptures tell us that we will be like sheep in the slaughter. Where is this written? (Psalm 44:22).

³⁷ Nay, in all these things we are more than conquerors through him that loved us. Despite all these things, we get the victory through Jesus Christ. So, don't worry. People of the world may slam you down and make fun of you as a Christian. They will say bad things about you, or even try to hurt you. However, God will always see you through it, and make you even stronger in your faith.

³⁸ For I am persuaded, that neither death, nor life, nor angels, nor principalities, nor powers, nor things present, nor things to come. In other words, if you are a true Christian, nothing can separate you from your faith and the love of God.

³⁹ Nor height, nor depth, nor any other creature, shall be able to separate us from the love of God, which is in Christ Jesus our Lord. I'll say it again; "Nothing can separate a true child of God from His love that is revealed in Jesus Christ our Lord and Savior."

Romans 9 

1 I say the truth in Christ, I lie not, my conscience also bearing me witness in the Holy Ghost. Paul is bearing witness here that he is speaking the truth and that the Holy Spirit confirms it. (2 Corinthians 11:31, Galatians 1:20, 1 Timothy 2:7). Paul was chosen by God as God's minister (preacher) and missionary (apostle or one sent forth), to teach the truth to the gentiles, and to show them God's plan of salvation through faith. Only God can send a true teacher of the Word. What is that teacher supposed to do? "Teach the truth to the lost and unlearned."

² That I have great heaviness and continual sorrow in my heart. Paul's heart was filled with sorrow and grief.

³ For I could wish that myself were accursed from Christ for my brethren, my kinsmen according to the flesh. Paul is saying that he would be willing to be cursed and cut off from Christ if that would save his people.

⁴ Who are Israelites; to whom pertaineth the adoption, and the glory, and the covenants, and the giving of the law, and the service of God, and the promises. Paul was speaking about the people of Israel, who were chosen to be God's adopted children. God revealed His glory to them. He made covenants with them and gave them the law. He gave them the privilege of worshipping Him and receiving His wonderful promises. (Luke 1:69-75, Acts 3:25-26, Hebrews 6:13-17). These are same promises given to us all by God.

⁵ Whose are the fathers, and of whom as concerning the flesh Christ came, who is over all, God blessed for ever. Amen. Abraham, Isaac, and Jacob are their ancestors. Christ Himself was an Israelite as far as His human nature was concerned. Now He is God, the one who rules over everything and is worthy of eternal praise. (John 17:2-3, 1 Corinthians 15:27-28, 1 Colossians 1:16-19, 2:9). The full Godhead rests in Christ; that's why we pray in Christ's name.

⁶ Not as though the word of God hath taken none effect. For they are not all Israel, which are of Israel. Paul is asking here, "has God failed to fulfill His promise to Israel? "Not at all." Not all who were born into the nation of Israel are truly members of God's people. (Romans 4:12-16). If we are of Christ, then we are true descendants of Abraham, and all of the promises to him belong to us also. (Romans 8:17, 9:7, Hebrews 11:18).

⁷ Neither, because they are the seed of Abraham, are they all children: but, In Isaac shall thy seed be called. Being descendants of Abraham doesn't necessarily make them truly Abraham's children. It would be Isaac, his son through whom Abraham's descendants would be counted. (Genesis 17:19, Hebrews 11:18). Remember that Abraham had other children also.

⁸ That is, They which are the children of the flesh, these are not the children of God: but the children of the promise are counted for the seed. In other words, Abraham's physical descendants are not necessarily children of God. Only the children of the promise through Isaac. (Galatians 4:28). We are all part of God's children just as God promised, just as Isaac was.

⁹ For this is the word of promise, At this time will I come, and Sarah shall have a son. God promised Abraham that Sarah would have a son. (Genesis 17:21, 18:10, 18:14, 21:2).

¹⁰ And not only this; but when Rebecca also had conceived by one, even by our father Isaac. Isaac would be our ancestor, but when he married Rebekah, she gave birth to twins. (Genesis 25:21-23). This  message was given to Rebekah from the Lord before the twins were born.

¹¹ For the children being not yet born, neither having done any good or evil, that the purpose of God according to election might stand, not of works, but of him that calleth. This message was given to Rebekah about the twins before they had done anything good or bad. This shows that God chooses people according to His own purpose. (Ephesians 1:4-5). Chosen before this world age. Who were chosen? Those who fought and stood against Satan in the first world age. "The election" if you will. They were justified in the first earth age, just as God chose Paul. (Romans 8:27-33, 2 Peter 3:15). If you did not know that there was a earth age before this one, read our study topic newsletter titled "Three Earth Ages," and appendix 146, The foundation of the world, of the King James Companion Bible. 

¹² It was said unto her, The elder shall serve the younger. That was God's message to Rebekah; "Your older son will serve your younger son." (That should strengthen our faith on how all things are possible with God). Why do I say that? Well, if any of you have older brothers and sisters, you know how hard it is to get them to listen to you about almost anything, let alone to serve you as the younger sibling.

¹³ As it is written, Jacob have I loved, but Esau have I hated. Jacob (later named Israel), God loved; but Esau (who was also called Edom), He rejected. Why? Because Esau despised his birthright and sold it to Jacob for some bread and pottage of lentils. (Genesis 25:30-34). 

¹⁴ What shall we say then? Is there unrighteousness with God? God forbid. Was God unfair? Not at all... God is always fair. (Psalm 145:17, Revelation 16:7).

¹⁵ For he saith to Moses, I will have mercy on whom I will have mercy, and I will have compassion on whom I will have compassion. God states that He will have mercy and compassion on those who He chooses. Those who deserve it, or are part of His plan. (Exodus 33:19).

¹⁶ So then it is not of him that willeth, nor of him that runneth, but of God that sheweth mercy. It is God only who decides to show mercy, "we have nothing to do with it."

¹⁷ For the scripture saith unto Pharaoh, Even for this same purpose have I raised thee up, that I might shew my power in thee, and that my name might be declared throughout all the earth. The scriptures tell us that God told Pharoah, "I have appointed you for the very purpose of displaying My power in you and to spread My fame throughout the earth." (Exodus 9:16). God chooses whom ever He wills.

¹⁸ Therefore hath he mercy on whom he will have mercy, and whom he will he hardeneth. God chooses to show mercy to some, but He also chooses to harden the hearts of others so they refuse to listen. "It is all part of His plan." (Exodus 4:21, 7:13, Romans 11:7-8, 2 Thessalonians 2:10-12). Even today, if you want to be ignorant of God's Word and follow lies, deception, and traditions of men; God will send you strong delusion to believe those lies. He will close your eyes to the truth. (Isaiah 29:10).

¹⁹ Thou wilt say then unto me, Why doth he yet find fault? For who hath resisted his will? Can we say: Why does God blame people for not responding? Don't they do what He makes them do?

²⁰ Nay but, O man, who art thou that repliest against God? Shall the thing formed say to him that formed it, Why hast thou made me thus? Never say that about God, and never as a human argue with God. i.e., never question God. He created you, so never question the creator. "Be satisfied with who you are." (Isaiah 45:9-10).

²¹ Hath not the potter power over the clay, of the same lump to make one vessel unto honour, and another unto dishonour? When the potter makes jars out of clay, doesn't he have the right to use the same lump of clay to make one jar for decoration and another to throw garbage into?

²² What if God, willing to shew his wrath, and to make his power known, endured with much longsuffering the vessels of wrath fitted to destruction. In this same way, God having the right to show His anger and power, is still patient with those who are destined for destruction. "God is always fair." (John 17:12). Even the sinners still have a chance when Christ returns during the millennium. The only one sentenced to death at this time is the son of perdition, which is Satan, so that the scriptures can be fulfilled.

²³ And that he might make known the riches of his glory on the vessels of mercy, which he had afore prepared unto glory. He does this to make His riches and glory shine on those who He has shown mercy. (Ephesians 2:10). Those chosen before in the first world age, and it is God Himself who has made us what we are. He has given us new lives through Jesus Christ, that we should spend these lives helping others. Our works do not save us, but it is the only thing we can take with us when we die. (Revelation 14:13).

²⁴ Even us, whom he hath called, not of the Jews only, but also of the Gentiles? Jews and Gentiles alike. "God chooses whom ever He wills to serve Him and further His plan of salvation."

²⁵ As he saith also in Osee, I will call them my people, which were not my people; and her beloved, which was not beloved. This word "Osee" is the prophecy of "Hosea." Concerning the Gentiles, God would say: "Those who were not My people, I will not call My people; I will love those whom I did not love before." (Hosea 2:23, 1 Peter 2:10). Those who know the truth and had His calling because they love God.

²⁶ And it shall come to pass, that in the place where it was said unto them, Ye are not my people; there shall they be called the children of the living God. There is another place in the scriptures where it says: You are not My people, but there they will be called, "children of the living God." (Hosea 1:9-10).

²⁷ Esaias also crieth concerning Israel, Though the number of the children of Israel be as the sand of the sea, a remnant shall be saved. Concerning Israel, Isaiah the prophet spoke: "Though the people of Israel are as numerous as the sands of the sea, a remnant shall be saved." (Isaiah 10:20-22, 11:11). Not that only the remnant will be saved, but rather return. Many will be saved in the end times.

²⁸ For he will finish the work, and cut it short in righteousness: because a short work will the Lord make upon the earth. i.e., judgment upon the earth in the end time will be quick and final. (Matthew 24:21, Revelation 19:11). The return of Christ in the second advent. "He is the real thing, and Jesus is the one who justly punishes and makes war."

²⁹ And as Esaias said before, Except the Lord of Sabaoth had left us a seed, we had been as Sodoma, and been made like unto Gomorrha. God spared that small remnant before, and He will do it again. Spared from what? Do you remember what happened at Sodom and Gomorrah? (Isaiah 1:9, Jude 1:7).

³⁰ What shall we say then? That the Gentiles, which followed not after righteousness, have attained to righteousness, even the righteousness which is of faith. So, what does this all mean? Even though the Gentiles did not follow God's standards, they were still made right with God. How? "By faith." They showed it in their hearts, just as we can do today. All God wants is your love, and for you to put your faith in Him, not man. (Galatians 5:5).

³¹ But Israel, which followed after the law of righteousness, hath not attained to the law of righteousness. The people of Israel tried so hard to get right with God by keeping the law, but never succeeded. It still won't happen even today. "All the rituals and ordinances that religions try to keep today will get them nowhere without faith." (Forget all the nonsense and get down to reality of Gods Word).

³² Wherefore? Because they sought it not by faith, but as it were by the works of the law. For they stumbled at that stumblingstone. Stumble at the stumbling stone... Why? because they make these rituals and laws a stumbling block to themselves, instead of trusting God. (1 Peter 2:8). When they play church and follow traditions of men they will not understand the truth of God's Word. Christ can become a stumbling block to them. You may say; how can Christ become a stumbling block? Remember that the antichrist comes first and will deceive many into believing he is the real Christ. He will be the stumbling block to those who follow him. God will also let you be deceived and believe a lie if you do not follow the truth of the Word. (2 Thessalonians 2:5-11).

³³ As it is written, Behold, I lay in Sion a stumblingstone and rock of offence: and whosoever believeth on him shall not be ashamed. God warned them before. "I am placing a stone in Jerusalem that makes people stumble, a rock that makes them fall." But, anyone who trusts in Him will never be ashamed. (Isaiah 8:14-15, 28:16, Matthew 21:42). So, forget the stumbling stone and trust in "Our Rock" who is "Jesus Christ," and you will never be disgraced.

Romans 10

1 Brethren, my heart's desire and prayer to God for Israel is, that they might be saved. Paul's heart and prayer was always towards the ministry and that all people that he came in contact with would be saved. (1 Corinthians 9:20-22). That is what Christianity is all about. Sharing the truth in the Word with all people, so that they may achieve salvation.

² For I bear them record that they have a zeal of God, but not according to knowledge. Paul knew what zeal they had towards God, but is was misdirected zeal, and he was about to give them a wake up call. 

³ For they being ignorant of God's righteousness, and going about to establish their own righteousness, have not submitted themselves unto the righteousness of God. Paul is saying here that they do not understand God's way of making them right with Himself. They keep refusing to accept God's way of doing things, and keep following their own ways. Just as many do today, following mans ways with their fancy rituals and traditions. "But it looks so holy, it must make us right with God." "Hypocrites playing church." God doesn't like it. Christ spoke of this in the parable of the Pharisee and publican. (Luke 18:9-14).

⁴ For Christ is the end of the law for righteousness to every one that believeth. Christ came to fulfill the law and has already accomplished the purpose for which the law was given. "All who believe in Him are made right with God." However, let me ask you this question? In order to believe in someone, don't you need to get to know them first? "Of course you do." You need to know the truth of God's Word before you can get to truly know Him.

⁵ For Moses describeth the righteousness which is of the law, That the man which doeth those things shall live by them. In other words, if you plan on being made right with God by keeping the law, it requires that you are obedient to all it's commands. "As long as you are in this flesh body, it won't happen." No man, woman, or child can do it. If you think you can, you are just fooling yourself. We all screw up at times, that is why we have repentance. When you repent to the Heavenly Father and mean it from the heart, you have a clean slate again. "That's why Christ died for us all." So that we would have a chance at salvation through believing in Him. Christ paid an awesome price for our sins. (Hebrews 2:14-18).

⁶ But the righteousness which is of faith speaketh on this wise, Say not in thine heart, Who shall ascend into heaven? that is, to bring Christ down from above. So, don't say to yourself, "who will go up to heaven?" (To bring Christ down to earth). (John 3:12-13). Only the Messiah, has come to earth and will return to heaven again.

⁷ Or, Who shall descend into the deep? that is, to bring up Christ again from the dead. And don't say, "who will go down to the place of the dead?" (To bring Christ back to life again). (Revelation 1:18). Christ will give us the knowledge to open the doors of truth, and the truth shall set you free. Only He holds the key to Heaven and hell.

⁸ But what saith it? The word is nigh thee, even in thy mouth, and in thy heart: that is, the word of faith, which we preach. What Paul is saying here is that the message about faith that we should be preaching is right in front of your face, and in your heart. (1 Peter 1:25). The Word of the Lord is eternal. And the Word is the Good News that was preached to you.

⁹ That if thou shalt confess with thy mouth the Lord Jesus, and shalt believe in thine heart that God hath raised him from the dead, thou shalt be saved. Again, a condition here. "If you confess with your mouth that Jesus is Lord, and believe in your heart that God raised Him from the dead, you will be saved." (1 John 4:2, 4:15).

¹⁰ For with the heart man believeth unto righteousness; and with the mouth confession is made unto salvation. It is believing in your heart that makes you right with God, and it is confessing with your mouth that you are saved. (This is what baptism is all about). You show and confess publicly that you believe in Christ and that He was raised from the dead in the resurrection.

¹¹ For the scripture saith, Whosoever believeth on him shall not be ashamed. Never be ashamed of Christ, or your faith. If you are a true Christian and a believer, you will stand for Christ and your faith till the end. (Matthew 24:13). "Those enduring to the end shall be saved." That means till the return of Christ; at the second advent. Remember that antichrist comes first and will deceive many pretending that he is Christ.

¹² For there is no difference between the Jew and the Greek: for the same Lord over all is rich unto all that call upon him. God does not play favorites. He created all the races and He loves them all. He gives generously to all who call upon His name. (Acts 2:21). Gives what? He gives you salvation; that's what we are talking about.

¹³ For whosoever shall call upon the name of the Lord shall be saved. Call on the name of the Lord; for "Christ does the saving." (Acts 2:38). The apostle Peter would say; "each one of you must turn from sin," repent and be baptized in the name of Jesus and you will receive the "Holy Spirit." This is a promise from God to whom ever will. (Baptism is to believe in the death and resurrection of Jesus Christ).

¹⁴ How then shall they call on him in whom they have not believed? and how shall they believe in him of whom they have not heard? and how shall they hear without a preacher? Paul is saying, you can't call on the Lord unless you believe in Him. You can't believe in Him unless you have heard about Him. And you can't hear about Him unless someone tells you about Him. (That's the job of a true preacher, or teacher of the Word). The conditions here are very clear. As I have said many times before, you need to get to know Christ before you can believe in Him. How? "Through His Word."

¹⁵ And how shall they preach, except they be sent? as it is written, How beautiful are the feet of them that preach the gospel of peace, and bring glad tidings of good things! How will anyone teach them without being sent? That's why the scriptures say. "How beautiful are the feet of messengers who bring the Good News." (Isaiah 52:7, Nahum 1:15).

¹⁶ But they have not all obeyed the gospel. For Esaias saith, Lord, who hath believed our report? Not everyone welcomes the Good News. Quoted by Isaiah the prophet. (Isaiah 53:1). There are going to be times when you try to spread a seed of truth, but they are not going to accept it. (Only God can make the seed of truth grow, all you need to do is plant it). If they don't accept it, or want to listen, just move on to the next person.

¹⁷ So then faith cometh by hearing, and hearing by the word of God. Faith comes from hearing the Good News about Christ. (Luke 11:28). Blessed are they that hear the Word of God and keep it. That means meditate on it and remember what you have learned. "Exercise the spirit."

¹⁸ But I say, Have they not heard? Yes verily, their sound went into all the earth, and their words unto the ends of the world. Have the people actually heard the Good News? You can bet on it... The message of Jesus Christ has gone throughout the world. (Especially now in the end times with radio, television, cell phones and computers). Take this ministry for example; with the help of the Lord, we reach thousands of people each day in over 50 countries around the world. We take no credit, it all goes to the Lord. "Praise God!"

¹⁹ But I say, Did not Israel know? First Moses saith, I will provoke you to jealousy by them that are no people, and by a foolish nation I will anger you. Did the people of Israel really understand? Of course they did; even in the time of Moses, God said, "I will rouse your jealousy through people who are not even a nation. And I will provoke your anger through the foolish Gentiles." Paul is quoting here from (Deuteronomy 32:20-21). While the people of Israel were wondering in the wilderness, they kept backsliding and worshipping other gods. This made the living God jealous. So in turn, God would make them jealous by reaching out to other nations that would be considered foolish to the Jews. (People of the Gentile nations).

²⁰ But Esaias is very bold, and saith, I was found of them that sought me not; I was made manifest unto them that asked not after me. The prophet Isaiah spoke very boldly for God. He would say; "I was found by people who were not looking for Me. I showed Myself to those who were not asking for Me." (Isaiah 65:1).

²¹ But to Israel he saith, All day long I have stretched forth my hands unto a disobedient and gainsaying people. Paul was telling us that Isaiah would go on to say regarding Israel; God says, "All day long I opened My arms to them, but they were disobedient and rebellious." (Isaiah 65:2). Describing people who never listen and are always arguing against you. Hard headed people who will never listen to the truth. Hmmm, have you ever met anyone like that?

Romans 11

1 I say then, Hath God cast away his people? God forbid. For I also am an Israelite, of the seed of Abraham, of the tribe of Benjamin. Paul is asking the question? Has God rejected the nation of Israel? "Of course not." Paul is telling them that he himself is an Israelite (a descendant of Abraham and member of the tribe of Benjamin). 

² God hath not cast away his people which he foreknew. Wot ye not what the scripture saith of Elias? how he maketh intercession to God against Israel saying. God has not rejected His people whom He chose from the beginning. (Those whom overcame in the first earth age). All part of God's election.

³ Lord, they have killed thy prophets, and digged down thine altars; and I am left alone, and they seek my life. This would be Elijah speaking in the old testament after his great victory on Mount Carmel, as he stood against the prophets of Baal and had called fire down from heaven. Then he ordered the prophets of Baal to all be killed. (1 Kings 19:1-17). When Ahab told queen Jezebel what Elijah had done, she sent a message to Elijah that she was going to kill him by the next day. So Elijah fled for his life and went to Beer-sheba, a city of Judah, leaving his servant there. Then he went alone into the wilderness and prayed that he might die. (Kind of a pity party about serving the Lord). This shows us that at times it is going to get tough when serving the Lord, but rather than feel sorry for ourselves, we need to push on and take control. Trust in God and don't let your guard down. If you do, this gives Satan a way in to give you trouble.

⁴ But what saith the answer of God unto him? I have reserved to myself seven thousand men, who have not bowed the knee to the image of Baal. After Elijah thought all was lost and finally got back on his feet, "God told him that He had 7,000 others who never bowed down to Baal." (1 Kings 19:18), those who stood against the false one.

⁵ Even so then at this present time also there is a remnant according to the election of grace. The same goes for today, there is a remnant (those who have remained faithful because of God's grace), "His elect ones." Are you one of His elect? Are you remaining faithful to God's truth and not bowing to false teachings and traditions of men?

⁶ And if by grace, then is it no more of works: otherwise grace is no more grace. But if it be of works, then it is no more grace: otherwise work is no more work. Grace comes from God's kindness, not from your works. (Ephesians 2:4-9, 2 Timothy 1:9). God calls not according to the works of one, or because we deserve it; but because that was part of His plan before the world began, to show us His grace through Jesus Christ.

⁷ What then? Israel hath not obtained that which he seeketh for; but the election hath obtained it, and the rest were blinded. In other words, most people have not found the favor of God that they are looking for. A few of His chosen have, but the majority of peoples hearts are hardened. (2 Corinthians 4:4, 2 Thessalonians 2:9-12). We are speaking of one of Satan's roles as antichrist. He will trick everyone with strange demonstrations, great miracles, and lies, because he is the father of lies. (John 8:44). He will completely fool those who refused the truth of the Word that they might be saved. Those who follow Satan will perish. Once saved always saved? "I don't think so." Again, If you want to be ignorant of God's Word and follow lies, deception, and traditions of men; God will send you strong delusion to believe those lies. He will close your eyes to the truth. (Isaiah 29:10). So many have been blinded to the truth in today's world and they don't even care.

⁸ (According as it is written, God hath given them the spirit of slumber, eyes that they should not see, and ears that they should not hear;) unto this day. Here it is, the spirit of slumber written here and in the old testament. (Isaiah 29:10). "To this day He has shut their eyes so they do not see, and closed their ears so they do not hear."

⁹ And David saith, Let their table be made a snare, and a trap, and a stumblingblock, and a recompence unto them. Spoken by David, "Let their bountiful table become a snare, a trap that makes them think all is well. Let their blessings cause them to stumble, and get what they deserve." (Psalm 69:22-23). In other words, your material and monetary possessions can become a trap and make you think all is well. (People who cherish their physical money over spiritual wealth). It's all about the money! Your spiritual blessings can also cause you to stumble, thinking you are on the right track when your not. This is what happened to Israel: their spiritual blessings should have led them to Christ, but became a snare to them and kept them from Christ. Why? Their religious practices became substitutes for the real experience of salvation. This goes on today when people depend on certain churches religious rituals, and practices instead of trusting in Christ, without all the fluff. "Playing church." It looks so holy, but it is far from the truth.

¹⁰ Let their eyes be darkened, that they may not see, and bow down their back alway. Let their eyes be blind to the truth so they cannot see and let their backs be bent forever. (Psalm 69:23).

¹¹ I say then, Have they stumbled that they should fall? God forbid: but rather through their fall salvation is come unto the Gentiles, for to provoke them to jealousy. Did the people of Israel stumble and fall beyond recovery? "Not at all." By them being disobedient towards God, He made salvation available to the Gentiles. He wanted His people to become jealous so that they may claim it for themselves. (God kind of wanted them to compete against the Gentiles for salvation). "You can see this competing going on in many churches today."

¹² Now if the fall of them be the riches of the world, and the diminishing of them the riches of the Gentiles; how much more their fulness? If the Gentiles were enriched because the people of Israel rejected God's offer of salvation; just think how much greater the blessing to the world will be when the people of Israel finally accept God's salvation.

¹³ For I speak to you Gentiles, inasmuch as I am the apostle of the Gentiles, I magnify mine office. Paul was a sent one to the Gentiles, and he wanted to stress that point towards them. (Ephesians 3:8, 2 Timothy 1:11). Paul's calling to a three fold ministry. To preach to the Kings & Queens, to Israel, and to the Gentiles. (Acts 9:15-16).

¹⁴ If by any means I may provoke to emulation them which are my flesh, and might save some of them. Paul wanted to make some of the people of Israel jealous of what the Gentiles now have, so that he might save some of them also.

¹⁵ For if the casting away of them be the reconciling of the world, what shall the receiving of them be, but life from the dead? Since Israel's rejection towards God brought salvation to the rest of the world, their acceptance will be even greater. "It will bring life to those who were spiritual dead." Speaking of the end times when the Jews come back to Christ. They will be like a nation returning from the dead, and will usher in the Millennium, when Christ will reign on earth. (Zechariah 12:10).

¹⁶ For if the firstfruit be holy, the lump is also holy: and if the root be holy, so are the branches. What Paul is saying here is that if Abraham and the other patriarchs were holy, their descendants will also be holy. In other words, the people of Israel are not saved because they are descendants of Abraham, but rather there is a special relationship they have with God because of Abraham.

¹⁷ And if some of the branches be broken off, and thou, being a wild olive tree, wert grafted in among them, and with them partakest of the root and fatness of the olive tree. The branches here represent Abraham's tree, and some of the people of Israel (as the branches), have been broken off. The Gentiles who were of the wild olive tree, were grafted in. So, the Gentiles also receive the blessing God has promised Abraham and his children. Together they will share in the richness of God's special olive tree.

¹⁸ Boast not against the branches. But if thou boast, thou bearest not the root, but the root thee. In other words, don't boast about being grafted into the branches that were broken off. You are just a branch and not the root. Remember the branches that were there first before you were grafted in. We are all part of the family of God as long as we are believers, and no one has all the answers yet. (Well, some preachers think they do). At Christ's return, the record will be set straight.

¹⁹ Thou wilt say then, The branches were broken off, that I might be grafted in. Those branches were broken off to make room for you. If they were not broken off, you may have not have been grafted in.

²⁰ Well; because of unbelief they were broken off, and thou standest by faith. Be not highminded, but fear. The branches that were broken off, was because of their unbelief in Christ. You are their in place of them, because you believe in Christ. So, don't be so high mighty and arrogant, but rather fear what could happen if you were not a believer, or if you fall from God's grace. (Proverbs 28:14, 1 Timothy 6:17).

²¹ For if God spared not the natural branches, take heed lest he also spare not thee. If you get to high minded, or act holier than thou, remember that God did not spare the original branches, and He might not spare you either.

²² Behold therefore the goodness and severity of God: on them which fell, severity; but toward thee, goodness, if thou continue in his goodness: otherwise thou also shalt be cut off. God can be kind and He can be severe. He is severe to those who disobey Him, and kind to those who obey and trust in Him. If you stop trusting in Him and follow the ways of the world, you will also be cut off.

²³ And they also, if they abide not still in unbelief, shall be grafted in: for God is able to graft them in again. Our Heavenly Father is always fair. If those who were grafted out turn from their unbelief, they will be grafted in again.

²⁴ For if thou wert cut out of the olive tree which is wild by nature, and wert grafted contrary to nature into a good olive tree: how much more shall these, which be the natural branches, be grafted into their own olive tree? The Gentiles were grafted in from the branches of the wild olive tree. God was willing to do something contrary to nature by grafting you into His good olive tree. So then, He will be far more eager to graft the original branches back into the tree where they belong. The bottom line here is: For us as Christians, Christ is the true vine and we are the branches. We are to abide in Him and He will abide in us so that we can bear good fruit, which is the truth is the Word. If we do not abide in Him, we are cast out as a branch and will wither and be burned. (John 15:4-6).

²⁵ For I would not, brethren, that ye should be ignorant of this mystery, lest ye should be wise in your own conceits; that blindness in part is happened to Israel, until the fulness of the Gentiles be come in. Paul is explaining here that they (the Gentiles), should not feel to proud about themselves because Israel has hardened their hearts towards God, because this will only last until the full number of Gentiles comes to Christ. When will this happen? In the end times. (Luke 21:24, Isaiah 59:20, Revelation 7:9). Now lets turn to the book of Acts to reveal the mystery that Paul was talking about. After this I will return, and will build again the tabernacle of David, which is fallen down; and I will build again the ruins thereof, and I will set it up. (Acts 15:16). I will renew the broken contract with David. (Amos 9:11). That the residue of men might seek after the Lord, and all the Gentiles, upon whom my name is called, saith the Lord, who doeth all these things. (Acts 15:17). So that the gentiles (whom so-ever will), also find the Lord. Known unto God are all his works from the beginning of the world. (Acts 15:18). The Lord revealing His plan right from the beginning. So, what does all this mean? Basically, God has a number of Gentiles in mind who will saved. When that number is reached, God will once again turn His attention to the nation of Israel and remove the blinders from their eyes.

²⁶ And so all Israel shall be saved: as it is written, There shall come out of Sion the Deliverer, and shall turn away ungodliness from Jacob. Paul is quoting from (Isaiah 59:20). Christ will come as a redeemer to those in Zion who have turned away from sin. "He does the same thing for us all who believe in Him." (Titus 2:14). He died for us and our sins, so that He could rescue us from constant falling into sin and calls us His very own. People with enthusiasm for doing good works. What are these good works? Everyone has different good works they can do. It could be to study His Word and share it with others if you are a teacher of the Word. It can be just doing kind things to others. Even a smile towards others can go a long way with making someone's day. Don't be a dead head and trouble maker; be a light to the world.

²⁷ For this is my covenant unto them, when I shall take away their sins. This is the covenant with them who return to Him, that He will take away their sins. The promise of the "new covenant." (Jeremiah 31:31-34). A future prophecy when Israel is to be restored.

²⁸ As concerning the gospel, they are enemies for your sakes: but as touching the election, they are beloved for the father's sakes. What Paul is saying here is that at the time there are many people of Israel who are now enemies of the Good News, and this benefits the Gentiles. Yet they are still His people that He loves, because He chose their ancestors Abraham, Isaac, and Jacob.

²⁹ For the gifts and calling of God are without repentance. God always keeps His promise.

³⁰ For as ye in times past have not believed God, yet have now obtained mercy through their unbelief. Paul is saying that you Gentiles were once rebels against God, but when the people of Israel rebelled against Him, God was merciful to you instead. Wherein in time past ye walked according to the course of this world, according to the prince of the power of the air, the spirit that now worketh in the children of disobedience. (Ephesians 2:2). Following the crowds and were just like all the others, full of sin and obeying Satan, the prince of the power of the air. He is at work right now in the hearts of those who are against the Lord. Children here is translated the sons of Satan, the Kenites, or sons of Cain. (Cain being the son of Satan and the first murderer). This word "course" in the Greek Strong's G165 is "Aion" a time period, or since the world began. We also have the children of disobedience in the "first earth age," the one third who followed Satan. We also have the children of disobedience with "the fallen angels." (Genesis 6:1-2). Read our study topics "Three earth ages" and "The fallen angels" for a better understanding. Let no man deceive you with vain words: for because of these things cometh the wrath of God upon the children of disobedience. (Ephesians 5:6). Vain here means empty words. Don't be fooled by those who try to excuse these sins, because a terrible wrath of God is upon those who do them. We covered the children of disobedience above in (Ephesians 2:2).

³¹ Even so have these also now not believed, that through your mercy they also may obtain mercy. In other words, now the people of Israel have become the rebels, and God's mercy has come to the Gentiles, so that the people of Israel would become jealous and want to receive God's mercy as well. God wants us as Christians (who received His mercy), to show mercy to the unbeliever so that they may turn to God. 

³² For God hath concluded them all in unbelief, that he might have mercy upon all. Again, God is always fair. He has imprisoned everyone in disobedience so He could have mercy on us all. "This goes back to trying to keep the law." (Galatians 3:22-23). If we could have been saved by the law, God would not have given us another way out through faith in Jesus Christ. Before Christ came, we were prisoners to the law. "Until we could believe in the coming of the Savior."

³³ O the depth of the riches both of the wisdom and knowledge of God! how unsearchable are his judgments, and his ways past finding out! God's riches, wisdom and knowledge are "awesome." It is just impossible for us at this time to understand all His ways. 

³⁴ For who hath known the mind of the Lord? or who hath been his counsellor? No one can know the lord's thoughts, and there is no one who could give Him any sound advice.

³⁵ Or who hath first given to him, and it shall be recompensed unto him again? God does not owe us anything. It is only by His grace that we exist and have a chance of salvation.

³⁶ For of him, and through him, and to him, are all things: to whom be glory for ever. Amen. Everything comes form God through His power and is intended for His glory. "All the Glory goes to God forever." Amen. (Revelation 19:1). Shouting "Praise Ye The Lord," salvation is from our God. Honor and authority belongs to Him. We can also claim these powers He has given us, if you believe and are in a good walk with our Heavenly Father.

Romans 12

1 I beseech you therefore, brethren, by the mercies of God, that ye present your bodies a living sacrifice, holy, acceptable unto God, which is your reasonable service. Paul is telling us as Christians, to fully give ourselves to God, because of all He has done for us. This word "acceptable" Strong's G2101 is "euarestos" in the Greek, meaning fully agreeable and well pleasing. Agreeable in the written Word, and proving what is acceptable unto the Lord. (Ephesians 5:10). Learn what pleases the Lord. It is written in His letter to you. Follow the Word. "This is truly the way to worship Him."

² And be not conformed to this world: but be ye transformed by the renewing of your mind, that ye may prove what is that good, and acceptable, and perfect, will of God. Don't follow the behavior and customs of this world, but rather let God transform you into a new person by changing the way you think about things. Then you will learn what is pleasing to God and His will for you. (1 Peter 4:2, 2 Peter 1:4, 1 John 2:15-17).

³ For I say, through the grace given unto me, to every man that is among you, not to think of himself more highly than he ought to think; but to think soberly, according as God hath dealt to every man the measure of faith. In other words, don't think you are better than you really are. Take a good look at yourself, and measure yourself by the faith God has given you. (Ephesians 4:7). Christ has given each of us special abilities, whatever special gift He gives us to further His cause.

⁴ For as we have many members in one body, and all members have not the same office. We are all members of the same body of Christ, and each of us has a special function. (1 Corinthians 12:4). Got gives us all special spiritual gifts, but they all come from the Holy Spirit.

⁵ So we, being many, are one body in Christ, and every one members one of another. Through Christ's body we are many parts of one body, and we belong to each other. (1 Corinthians 12:12-14). "Learn to get along with fellow Christians."

⁶ Having then gifts differing according to the grace that is given to us, whether prophecy, let us prophesy according to the proportion of faith. We are all given different gifts according to God's grace. So, if God has given you the gift to teach, do it with faith and to the best of your ability. (Ephesians 4:11). The sent forth ones, some are teachers, some are seed planters, some for winning people to Christ, and some for caring for God's people. Whatever your calling is, use it to benefit the many member body of Christ.

⁷ Or ministry, let us wait on our ministering: or he that teacheth, on teaching. If God gives you the gift of serving others, serve them to the best of your ability. If He gives you the gift of teaching, be a good and truthful teacher. Don't teach a bunch of trash and traditions of men. (1 Timothy 2:7). Paul was chosen by God as God's minister (preacher), and missionary (apostle or one sent forth), to teach the truth to the gentiles, and to show them God's plan of salvation through faith. Only God can send a true teacher of the Word. What is that teacher supposed to do? "Teach the truth to the lost and unlearned."

⁸ Or he that exhorteth, on exhortation: he that giveth, let him do it with simplicity; he that ruleth, with diligence; he that sheweth mercy, with cheerfulness. Again, what ever your gift of God is, do it willingly and to the best of your ability. "Do it with a cheerful heart."

⁹ Let love be without dissimulation. Abhor that which is evil; cleave to that which is good. Don't be a phony and pretend to love others. Really love them if you say you do. Hate what is wrong, and hold tightly to what is good.

¹⁰ Be kindly affectioned one to another with brotherly love; in honour preferring one another. Love the brethren and honor each other. Basically we are talking about your fellow Christians here. There are times in this world and in this flesh body that you are not going to care so much for certain people. (1 Peter 1:22). "Forget about the flesh." You are cleansed from sin and purify the soul when you obey the truth. Care about those who are misled and try to show them the truth. If they do not want to listen, don't hate them, just let it go.

¹¹ Not slothful in business; fervent in spirit; serving the Lord. Never be lazy in serving the Lord, and serve Him enthusiastically. Work hard at anything you do and it will pay off in the end.

¹² Rejoicing in hope; patient in tribulation; continuing instant in prayer. Rejoice in the hope we have and be patient in trouble times. Keep praying and talking to the Heavenly Father. (1 John 5:14). We can be sure that God will listen to us whenever we ask for anything in line with His will. (Ask for things of the spirit, or wisdom to help you in teaching His Word). "God loves that."

¹³ Distributing to the necessity of saints; given to hospitality. When fellow Christians need help, always be ready to help them. (1 Peter 4:9). Make someone feel welcome in your home and be kind to others.

¹⁴ Bless them which persecute you: bless, and curse not. I know this is hard at times, but bless them who give you trouble. Pray that God will bless them. You never know, they just might come around to the truth if it be God's will. (1 Thessalonians 5:15). Do not pay back evil for evil, but rather try to do good towards each other.

¹⁵ Rejoice with them that do rejoice, and weep with them that weep. When someone is happy about something, rejoice with them. Don't be jealous of them. And when someone is sad about something, feel for them as if it was yourself going through a bad time. Have a little compassion for others. "Again, God loves that."

¹⁶ Be of the same mind one toward another. Mind not high things, but condescend to men of low estate. Be not wise in your own conceits. Live in harmony with others when possible. Don't be to proud to enjoy the company of ordinary people. Some of the nicest people I have ever met, were just plain old common people like myself. And most important, don't be a know it all. We can all learn something from others.

¹⁷ Recompense to no man evil for evil. Provide things honest in the sight of all men. Never pay back evil with more evil. Do things that way God would want you to, so that everyone can see you are honorable. (Proverbs 3:4, 2 Corinthians 8:21). Paul was always honest and his word was good. If you give someone your word, keep it. If you are honest with people, at times they may not like it, but they will respect you for telling it like it is.

¹⁸ If it be possible, as much as lieth in you, live peaceably with all men. "If it be possible," try your best to live in peace with everyone. (2 Corinthians 13:11). Again, try to live in harmony and peace with others, and the God of love and peace will be with you.

¹⁹ Dearly beloved, avenge not yourselves, but rather give place unto wrath: for it is written, Vengeance is mine; I will repay, saith the Lord. Never take revenge on others, especially if you are a true Christian. Leave the revenge to God. If someone messes with one of God's children, He will take care of them. (Hebrews 10:30). Vengeance belongs to the Lord and He will judge His people. (Deuteronomy 32:35-36).

²⁰ Therefore if thine enemy hunger, feed him; if he thirst, give him drink: for in so doing thou shalt heap coals of fire on his head. When your enemies are hungry, feed them. When thirsty, give them something to drink. Christ set the example: (John 13:26-27). When Judas betrayed Christ for 30 pieces of silver, He knew it was God's will that it be done, and honored him at the table of the last supper. "You can bet that there were burning coals of shame on the head of Judas."

²¹ Be not overcome of evil, but overcome evil with good. Never let evil conquer you. That is what Satan wants, then he has you. Always conquer evil by doing good. How do we prevent this? (Through the Word). Put on the full Gospel Armor so that you can stand against Satan. (Ephesians 6:11). Put on all God's armor to stand against all strategies and tricks of Satan. Remember it says to "stand against Satan." (Don't try to escape with promises of false doctrine like the rapture).

Romans 13

1 Let every soul be subject unto the higher powers. For there is no power but of God: the powers that be are ordained of God. Submit to government authorities, because all authority comes from God, and those in position of authority have been placed there by God. (Titus 3:1, 1 Peter 2:13-17). Obey the law of our governments and you will have freedom of religion. Be a good citizen and bring forth God's Word. The lawmakers are here to protect those who are doing good and can protect you to further God's Word.

² Whosoever therefore resisteth the power, resisteth the ordinance of God: and they that resist shall receive to themselves damnation. If you rebel against authority you are rebelling against what God has instituted and will be punished.

³ For rulers are not a terror to good works, but to the evil. Wilt thou then not be afraid of the power? do that which is good, and thou shalt have praise of the same. The authorities are not there to bring fear to the people who are doing right, but rather to those who are doing wrong. Do what is right and the authorities will honor you. (Proverbs 14:35, 1 Peter 3:13-14). No one will want to harm you if you do good.

⁴ For he is the minister of God to thee for good. But if thou do that which is evil, be afraid; for he beareth not the sword in vain: for he is the minister of God, a revenger to execute wrath upon him that doeth evil. The authorities are God's servants for your good. If you are doing wrong, they have the power to punish you. (That is part of their job). Now I know many will say that many of the authorities are corrupt. Some may be, but the majority of them are good people who want to do good for our country. You are always going to have some corruption in the government, in the courts, the military, and police departments. "Those who are corrupt will get theirs sooner or later."

⁵ Wherefore ye must needs be subject, not only for wrath, but also for conscience sake. Do good and submit to the good authorities and you will avoid punishment and keep a clear conscience. (Acts 24:16).

⁶ For for this cause pay ye tribute also: for they are God's ministers, attending continually upon this very thing. Work hard and pay your taxes for the same reason. The government workers need to be paid for their services. Some of them may be a little overpaid at times, but that's the way it is. Christ was approached with this same question about taxation. (Matthew 22:17-21, Mark 12:14:17, Luke 20:21-26). "Render to God what is God's, render to the government what is the governments."

⁷ Render therefore to all their dues: tribute to whom tribute is due; custom to whom custom; fear to whom fear; honour to whom honour. Again, pay what you owe to others, and pay your taxes and government fees to those who collect them. By doing so, you will be giving honor to those who are in authority.

⁸ Owe no man any thing, but to love one another: for he that loveth another hath fulfilled the law. As a good citizen and Christian, you owe nothing to anyone, except for your obligation to love one another. If you love your neighbor as yourself, you will be fulfilling the requirements of God's law. (Galatians 5:14, James 2:8).

⁹ For this, Thou shalt not commit adultery, Thou shalt not kill, Thou shalt not steal, Thou shalt not bear false witness, Thou shalt not covet; and if there be any other commandment, it is briefly comprehended in this saying, namely, Thou shalt love thy neighbour as thyself. In other words, the last five of the ten commandments are all summed up in this one commandment: "Love your neighbor as yourself." (Matthew 22:39, Mark 12:31). Christ told us about the two greatest commandments; "Love the Lord with all your heart," and "Love your neighbor as yourself."

¹⁰ Love worketh no ill to his neighbour: therefore love is the fulfilling of the law. True love never does wrong to others, so love fulfills the requirements of God's law. Now there is times when you may need to use tough love against a child, or a fellow brother for correction. If you truly love your child, or a loved one, you will correct them when necessary. "Spare the rod and spoil the child." (Proverbs 13:24).

¹¹ And that, knowing the time, that now it is high time to awake out of sleep: for now is our salvation nearer than when we believed. What Paul is saying here is, "wake up" and get your act together. Time is running out and we are close to the end. The return of Christ is just around the corner. (Revelation 22:12, 22:20). The seventh trump is near and Christ is returning soon to reward everyone according to the deeds he has done. DO YOU HAVE A REWARD COMING?

¹² The night is far spent, the day is at hand: let us therefore cast off the works of darkness, and let us put on the armour of light. The night is almost gone, and the day of salvation will soon be here. So, we are to shed our works of darkness and put on the armor of light. Now there is a lot said in this particular verse. First off, as Christians we are children of the light. Satan is a child of the dark. So, we are to shed the dark deeds of Satan and put on the armor of light. Who is the light? Christ is that light we should be walking in. (1 John1:5-7). What is the armor we should put on? This is the "whole Gospel armor of God," that we need to fight the dark ways of Satan. (Ephesians 6:11-18).

¹³ Let us walk honestly, as in the day; not in rioting and drunkenness, not in chambering and wantonness, not in strife and envying. Because we are children of the light, we need to live decent lives for all to see. Don't live in the darkness of wild parties, drunkenness, sexual promiscuity, immoral living, or in quarreling and jealously. "These are all thing of the dark side, and of Satan."

¹⁴ But put ye on the Lord Jesus Christ, and make not provision for the flesh, to fulfil the lusts thereof. Keep your mind on our Lord Jesus Christ. Know Him and feel His presence. Don't let your flesh take over an indulge in your evil desires. How can we do this? Stay in the Word so that you can grow strong. (1 Peter 2:1-2). Crave the spiritual milk so you can grow into the meat of the Word and obtain a full experience of salvation. "The meat of the Word is where you will find true power and wisdom."

Romans 14

1 Him that is weak in the faith receive ye, but not to doubtful disputations. Accept others believers who are weak in faith, but don't argue with them about what they may think is right or wrong. This word "receive" used here is "proslambano" in the Greek, Strong's G4355, meaning "lead aside, or to friendship with." (Become a fellow friend to them and set the example of a mature Christian). The word "disputations" Strong's G1253 is "diakrisis" meaning "estimation or to discern." (You do have the right to discern or recognize the difference). However, don't try to straighten out everyone you meet. The "Holy Spirit" is quite capable of doing that to every individual. 

² For one believeth that he may eat all things: another, who is weak, eateth herbs. One may believe it is alright to eat anything, but another may believe that they should only eat vegetables. In reality, what you eat has nothing to do with your relationship with God. Christ would say Himself that it is not what goes into a man that defiles him, but rather what come out of him that defiles him. (Mark 7:15-23). This also refers to (Leviticus 11), concerning the foods that we should eat and not eat.

³ Let not him that eateth despise him that eateth not; and let not him which eateth not judge him that eateth: for God hath received him. Do not to judge anyone on what they eat or drink. God has accepted them according to His will and purpose. Lets take this a step further. I hate cigarette smoking because I am allergic to the second hand smoke. I know it is a bad habit and it will eventually make you sick and possibly give you cancer. However, I don't hate cigarette smokers. If I did, I would be hating members of my own family which I love dearly. I have enough of my own faults that they may not like, but they still love me dearly also. My point being, lets not judge, or despise others for their faults, but rather accept them for who they are. "Let God do the judging and changing."

⁴ Who art thou that judgest another man's servant? to his own master he standeth or falleth. Yea, he shall be holden up: for God is able to make him stand. Don't think that you are better that anyone else and try to judge others just because you think that your holier than thou. "Again, let God be the judge." (1 Corinthians 4:4-5). We know nothing by ourselves. God can do the judging, because God is always fair. (You get what you got coming to you).

⁵ One man esteemeth one day above another: another esteemeth every day alike. Let every man be fully persuaded in his own mind. In other words, lets not make a religion out of a special day of worship. God will accept any day you worship. He loves any day that you get into His Word.

⁶ He that regardeth the day, regardeth it unto the Lord; and he that regardeth not the day, to the Lord he doth not regard it. He that eateth, eateth to the Lord, for he giveth God thanks; and he that eateth not, to the Lord he eateth not, and giveth God thanks. Those who worship on a certain day do it to honor Him, so again, don't make a religion out of a certain day. Those who eat certain foods and give thanks to the Heavenly Father for that food, is just fine to Him. Those who do not eat certain foods and want to please the Lord giving thanks to Him, He also accepts.

⁷ For none of us liveth to himself, and no man dieth to himself. Paul is saying here that we do not live, or die for ourselves.

⁸ For whether we live, we live unto the Lord; and whether we die, we die unto the Lord: whether we live therefore, or die, we are the Lord's. If we live and die to honor the Lord, then we belong to the Lord. "Remember, all souls belong to God." (Ezekiel 18:4). 

⁹ For to this end Christ both died, and rose, and revived, that he might be Lord both of the dead and living. Christ died and resurrected for this purpose. "He is Lord of the living and the dead."

¹⁰ But why dost thou judge thy brother? or why dost thou set at nought thy brother? for we shall all stand before the judgment seat of Christ. Paul is asking us; Why then do we always try to judge other believers? We are all going to stand before God and be judged, so lets leave the judging to Him.

¹¹ For it is written, As I live, saith the Lord, every knee shall bow to me, and every tongue shall confess to God. It is written that "every knee will bow to Christ and every tongue will confess." Where is it written? (Isaiah 45:23).

¹² So then every one of us shall give account of himself to God. Every one of us will be accountable to God. (Matthew 12:36, Galatians 6:5).

¹³ Let us not therefore judge one another any more: but judge this rather, that no man put a stumblingblock or an occasion to fall in his brother's way. Let's not judge one another, but rather live in a way that you will not cause another brother to fall. Try not to confuse another brother with false doctrines and traditions of men.

¹⁴ I know, and am persuaded by the Lord Jesus, that there is nothing unclean of itself: but to him that esteemeth any thing to be unclean, to him it is unclean. As mature Christians we should know that there is no food that is spiritually wrong to eat. But, if someone believes it is wrong, then for that person it is wrong to them and we should respect that. (1 Timothy 4:4). "Everything God made is good for it's purpose."

¹⁵ But if thy brother be grieved with thy meat, now walkest thou not charitably. Destroy not him with thy meat, for whom Christ died. If another believer is distressed by what you eat, try not to eat it around them. Don't let your eating ruin someone's beliefs for whom Christ died.

¹⁶ Let not then your good be evil spoken of. Then people won't criticize you for something you believe in.

¹⁷ For the kingdom of God is not meat and drink; but righteousness, and peace, and joy in the Holy Ghost. The Kingdom of God is not a matter of what we eat or drink, but rather living a life of goodness, peace, and joy in the Holy Spirit. (Galatians 5:22).

¹⁸ For he that in these things serveth Christ is acceptable to God, and approved of men. Enjoy and keep a good attitude when serving God and you will please Him. (Then others will approve of you also).

¹⁹ Let us therefore follow after the things which make for peace, and things wherewith one may edify another. Lets try to bring harmony to the church. Always try your best to build others up. God loves that, and people like it also.

²⁰ For meat destroy not the work of God. All things indeed are pure; but it is evil for that man who eateth with offence. Don't make a religion over what you eat. This tears apart the work of God. Remember, all food is acceptable, but it is wrong to eat something (around that person), if it offends another brother.

²¹ It is good neither to eat flesh, nor to drink wine, nor any thing whereby thy brother stumbleth, or is offended, or is made weak. It is better not eat meat or drink wine etc., if it might offend another believer and cause him to stumble. (1 Corinthians 8:13). "Don't do this in front of weak person." (This would be like having a drink around one who was an alcoholic, but now has quit). You don't want them to start drinking again because of you.

²² Hast thou faith? have it to thyself before God. Happy is he that condemneth not himself in that thing which he alloweth. You may believe that what you are doing is alright with God, but keep it between yourself and God. Blessed are they who don't feel guilty for something they believe in.

²³ And he that doubteth is damned if he eat, because he eateth not of faith: for whatsoever is not of faith is sin. However, if you do something that you believe is not right, you are not following your convictions, and you are sinning.

Romans 15

1 We then that are strong ought to bear the infirmities of the weak, and not to please ourselves. Don't always try to please yourself. Be a little more considerate to those who are sensitive about certain things.

² Let every one of us please his neighbour for his good to edification. Help others when you can and build them up in the Lord. This pleases our Heavenly Father. (Philippians 2:4-5). Don't only think of things that interest you, but take an interest in others also. (Be a good listener).

³ For even Christ pleased not himself; but, as it is written, The reproaches of them that reproached thee fell on me. Christ didn't live to please Himself, He came as a servant towards others. They criticized Christ and they will do the same to you. (Psalm 69:9, 1 Timothy 3:7, Matthew 5:11). When you teach the truth of God's Word, you will be talked about and falsely accused. People will look for every fault they can against you.

⁴ For whatsoever things were written aforetime were written for our learning, that we through patience and comfort of the scriptures might have hope. Everything written in the scriptures long ago were written to teach us and give us hope and encouragement. We need to wait patiently for the promises of God to be fulfilled. (Hebrews 10:35-36, 1 Peter 1:13).

⁵ Now the God of patience and consolation grant you to be likeminded one toward another according to Christ Jesus. God will give you the patience and encouragement through the Holy Spirit to live in harmony with each other. This is how Christ lived and He wants us to live the same way. (Philippians 2:4-5). Have the same attitude that Christ had. (It would be a wonderful world if we could all have the mind of Christ).

⁶ That ye may with one mind and one mouth glorify God, even the Father of our Lord Jesus Christ. Joining together, giving praise and glory to the Heavenly Father of our Lord Jesus Christ. There is no better time than now, that this country should turn back to God and start giving praise where it is due. (God is not to happy with this country right now). Just look around and you will see that the wrath of God has begun and will continue, "till we get our act together."

⁷ Wherefore receive ye one another, as Christ also received us to the glory of God. Learn to accept each other just as Christ has accepted you, so God will get the glory. (2 Thessalonians 1:10-12). Speaking of the coming of Christ that is just around the corner. He is coming to receive His praise for all He has done for us. We will be among those praising Him because of what we have believed. Do you have the Faith to be worthy of His calling? Enough faith to keep you focused on the Word of God and not false teachings? Enough faith to keep you from falling into a world controlled by Satan? If so, He will reward your faith with His power.

⁸ Now I say that Jesus Christ was a minister of the circumcision for the truth of God, to confirm the promises made unto the fathers. Remember that Christ came as a servant to the Jews to show that God is true to the promises He made with their ancestors. 

⁹ And that the Gentiles might glorify God for his mercy; as it is written, For this cause I will confess to thee among the Gentiles, and sing unto thy name. Christ also came to the Gentiles so that they might give God the glory for His mercy towards them. Where is it written? (Psalm 18:49).

¹⁰ And again he saith, Rejoice, ye Gentiles, with his people. Written in other places also. (Deuteronomy 32:43, Psalm 68:32, 97:1, 98:3-4). 

¹¹ And again, Praise the Lord, all ye Gentiles; and laud him, all ye people. Written again, praise the Lord, all you Gentiles. (Psalm 117:1).

¹² And again, Esaias saith, There shall be a root of Jesse, and he that shall rise to reign over the Gentiles; in him shall the Gentiles trust. The heir to David's throne will come, and He will rule over the Gentiles. Written in the book of Isaiah. (Isaiah 11:1, 11:10). "Christ is the root and the offspring of David." (Revelation 22:16).

¹³ Now the God of hope fill you with all joy and peace in believing, that ye may abound in hope, through the power of the Holy Ghost. Paul always prayed for the brethren so that they would come to the truth and hope, being completely filled with joy and peace, because they trusted in Christ. As Paul explains, when you trust in Christ you will overflow with confident hope through the power of the Holy Spirit.

¹⁴ And I myself also am persuaded of you, my brethren, that ye also are full of goodness, filled with all knowledge, able also to admonish one another. Paul was convinced that the fellow brethren were full of goodness and were capable of teaching each other what he had taught them. Those who were worthy of the calling. (2 Thessalonians 1:11, Acts 20:31). Paul warned them to watch out for the troublemakers, like he watched out for them.

¹⁵ Nevertheless, brethren, I have written the more boldly unto you in some sort, as putting you in mind, because of the grace that is given to me of God. Paul was always a bold teacher getting right to the point of the matter. (Ephesians 3:7-8). Paul was given the wonderful privilege of telling everyone about God's plan, and God gave him the power and special ability to do it well. Paul admits that he did not deserve it and was the most useless Christian, but was chosen for this special joy of telling the gentiles about the Good News.

¹⁶ That I should be the minister of Jesus Christ to the Gentiles, ministering the gospel of God, that the offering up of the Gentiles might be acceptable, being sanctified by the Holy Ghost. Paul was that special messenger to the Gentiles. Paul's goal was to make them an acceptable offering to God, through the Holy Spirit. (Ephesians 2:22). Joined together by the Spirit as the many member body that makes up the dwelling place of God.

¹⁷ I have therefore whereof I may glory through Jesus Christ in those things which pertain to God. Paul had good reason to be so enthusiastic about all Jesus Christ has done through him in his service to God.

¹⁸ For I will not dare to speak of any of those things which Christ hath not wrought by me, to make the Gentiles obedient, by word and deed. Paul would never boast about anything except what Christ has done through him, bringing the Gentiles to God through his message and by the way he worked among them.

¹⁹ Through mighty signs and wonders, by the power of the Spirit of God; so that from Jerusalem, and round about unto Illyricum, I have fully preached the gospel of Christ. The Gentiles were convinced by the power and miraculous signs of the Holy Spirit. Paul fully presented the "Good News" of Christ from Jerusalem to Illyricum. (Acts 20:24, 20:1-2, 20:6). Illyricum, or Illyria, was a country of Europe, lying (N and NW) of Macedonia, on the eastern coast of the Adriatic gulf, opposite Italy.

²⁰ Yea, so have I strived to preach the gospel, not where Christ was named, lest I should build upon another man's foundation. Paul always taught where the name of Christ has never been heard. He preached mostly to the lost, rather than where a church has already been started.

²¹ But as it is written, To whom he was not spoken of, they shall see: and they that have not heard shall understand. He followed the plan written in the scriptures. "Those who have never been told about Him will see, and those who have never heard of Him will understand." Where is it written? (Isaiah 52:15, 65:1).

²² For which cause also I have been much hindered from coming to you. Paul's visit to Rome was delayed because he has been preaching in these places.

²³ But now having no more place in these parts, and having a great desire these many years to come unto you. Paul's work was finished in these regions and he was eager to visit the Romans.

²⁴ Whensoever I take my journey into Spain, I will come to you: for I trust to see you in my journey, and to be brought on my way thitherward by you, if first I be somewhat filled with your company. Paul planed to go to Spain with the Word and when he did, he said that he would stop in Rome for fellowship.

²⁵ But now I go unto Jerusalem to minister unto the saints. He was going to stop off at Jerusalem first to minister to the believers there.

²⁶ For it hath pleased them of Macedonia and Achaia to make a certain contribution for the poor saints which are at Jerusalem. The believers in Macedonia and Achaia have taken up offerings for the poor among the believers in Jerusalem.

²⁷ It hath pleased them verily; and their debtors they are. For if the Gentiles have been made partakers of their spiritual things, their duty is also to minister unto them in carnal things. The Gentiles felt that they owed a real debt to the believers in Jerusalem, because they received the spiritual blessings of the "Good News" form the believers there. (They wanted to help them out financially).

²⁸ When therefore I have performed this, and have sealed to them this fruit, I will come by you into Spain. After Paul delivered their donations to the people in Jerusalem, he was going to stop by Rome on his way to Spain.

²⁹ And I am sure that, when I come unto you, I shall come in the fulness of the blessing of the gospel of Christ. Paul was sure that Christ would bless their time together. (Ephesians 3:19). "Come to know the true love of Christ, and pass His knowledge to others." One will never forget a seed you planted when they come to Christ.

³⁰ Now I beseech you, brethren, for the Lord Jesus Christ's sake, and for the love of the Spirit, that ye strive together with me in your prayers to God for me. Paul was asking them to remember him in their prayers because of their love for him through the Holy Spirit. (2 Thessalonians 3:1). Pray that the Lord's message will spread rapidly and triumph wherever it goes, winning converts everywhere as it did with you.

³¹ That I may be delivered from them that do not believe in Judaea; and that my service which I have for Jerusalem may be accepted of the saints. Paul was asking for their prayers that he would be safe from the un-believers in Judea and that the believers would accept the donation he was taking them.

³² That I may come unto you with joy by the will of God, and may with you be refreshed. Then by God's will, I will be able to come to you with a joyful heart, and will be an encouragement to each other. (Proverbs 25:13).

³³ Now the God of peace be with you all. Amen. The God who gives us peace, may He be with us all. (1 Corinthians 14:33). Not a God of confusion, but of peace in all churches of the saints.

Romans 16

1 I commend unto you Phebe our sister, which is a servant of the church which is at Cenchrea. Phoebe was a "deaconess," or "servant" of the church of Cenchreae. Some scholars believe she was responsible for delivering Paul's message to the Roman Christian church.

² That ye receive her in the Lord, as becometh saints, and that ye assist her in whatsoever business she hath need of you: for she hath been a succourer of many, and of myself also. Paul wanted them to welcome her as one who is worthy of honor among God's people. She was an assistant to Paul and has been helpful to many.

³ Greet Priscilla and Aquila my helpers in Christ Jesus. Priscilla and Aquila were Paul's co-workers in the ministry. Priscilla was a Jewish woman and one of the earliest known Christian converts who lived in Rome. (Prisca was her formal name). Aquila was the husband of Priscilla and a Jewish Christian like her. Paul made Aquila a bishop in Asia Minor. Priscilla and Aquila were both tent makers just as Paul was. Priscilla and Aquila were among the earliest known teachers of Christian theology.

⁴ Who have for my life laid down their own necks: unto whom not only I give thanks, but also all the churches of the Gentiles. Paul was very thankful for the both of them because they even risked their lives for Paul at one time.

⁵ Likewise greet the church that is in their house. Salute my well-beloved Epaenetus, who is the firstfruits of Achaia unto Christ. Give my greetings to the church that meets in their home. (1 Corinthians 16:19). Also, greet my dear friend Epenetus. He was the first person from the province of Asia to become a follower of Christ.

⁶ Greet Mary, who bestowed much labour on us. Greetings to Mary (Mariam), who has worked so hard for your benefit. (Mary was the most prominent member of the church of Rome known to Paul).

⁷ Salute Andronicus and Junia, my kinsmen, and my fellow-prisoners, who are of note among the apostles, who also were in Christ before me. Andronicus and Junia (were Benjamites), and while being in prison with Paul, were highly respected among the apostles. They were followers of Christ even before Paul was.

⁸ Greet Amplias my beloved in the Lord. Ampliatus was a Roman Christian. (Sacred tradition makes him the first Bishop of Varna, in Bulgaria).

⁹ Salute Urbane, our helper in Christ, and Stachys my beloved. Urbanus and Stachys were other Christian disciples and co-workers of Paul and the brethren. 

¹⁰ Salute Apelles approved in Christ. Salute them which are of Aristobulus' household. Apelles was a renowned painter of ancient Greece. Aristobulus, the brother of Saint Barnabas, was ordained to be a bishop in Britain by the apostle Paul.

¹¹ Salute Herodion my kinsman. Greet them that be of the household of Narcissus, which are in the Lord. Herodion was a relative of Paul, and Narcissus was a hunter from the territory of Thespiae in Boeotia who was renowned for his beauty. 

¹² Salute Tryphena and Tryphosa, who labour in the Lord. Salute the beloved Persis, which laboured much in the Lord. Tryphena (meaning luxurious), and Tryphosa (meaning luxuriating), were probably sisters. Persis (means a Persian woman), was a Christian in Rome. They all labored for the Lord.

¹³ Salute Rufus chosen in the Lord, and his mother and mine. Rufus was the son of Simon the Cyrenian. (Mark 15:21).

¹⁴ Salute Asyncritus, Phlegon, Hermas, Patrobas, Hermes, and the brethren which are with them. Asyncritus was a bishop Hyrcania in Asia. Phlegon was a Christian bishop of Marathon. Hermas was a Christian resident of Rome. Patrobas was another Christian of Rome. Hermes was the bishop of Dalmatia. Paul greeted them all along with their brothers and sisters that were with them.

¹⁵ Salute Philologus, and Julia, Nereus, and his sister, and Olympas, and all the saints which are with them. Philologus and his wife Julia were both Christians in Rome. Nereus and his sister were Cristians at Rome, and Nereus was beheaded at Terracina, probably during the reign of Nerva. Olympas was another Christian at Rome.

¹⁶ Salute one another with an holy kiss. The churches of Christ salute you. Greet each other with a holy kiss. (1 Corinthians 16:20, 2 Corinthians 13:12, 1 Thessalonians 5:26). In the east, the kiss was and still is a sign of respect and affection.

¹⁷ Now I beseech you, brethren, mark them which cause divisions and offences contrary to the doctrine which ye have learned; and avoid them. Now Paul gives us an important warning about those who cause division in the church by teaching things contrary to the truth in the Word. Stay away from them! (2 Thessalonians 3:6, 3:14, 1 Timothy 6:3-5, 2 Timothy 3:5, 2 John 1:10-11). If anyone comes to teach anything other than what Christ taught, don't even invite them into your home. Don't encourage them in any way. If you encourage or support them in any way, you become a partaker in their evil deeds and wickedness. When you tithe or donate to a church that is not teaching truth of the Word, you become a partaker. "Do not be deceived by false doctrine and traditions of men!"

¹⁸ For they that are such serve not our Lord Jesus Christ, but their own belly; and by good words and fair speeches deceive the hearts of the simple. These type of people are not serving Christ our Lord; they are serving their own personal interests. By their smooth talk and glowing words they deceive innocent people. A bunch of con men and women always trying to scam someone to get ahead. Do you know anyone like that? (1 Corinthians 3:18-19). you are better off being a fool then to think that you are above average according to this worlds standards. "The wisdom of this world is foolish to God." God uses man's own brilliance to trap him; he stumbles over his own wisdom and falls. Paul also warns us about the future when the antichrist returns before the real Christ to deceive many. (2 Thessalonians 2:3-4). "Do not be deceived." Christ will not return until the "Great Apostasy." (Rebellion against God, fallen away of the church, or one who gives up their professed beliefs). Then the son of perdition (one of Satan's names), will be revealed. "The false messiah." (Revelation 17:8). He will defy God and will try to take the place of God, sitting in the temple of God in Mount Zion. (Isaiah 14:12-16).

¹⁹ For your obedience is come abroad unto all men. I am glad therefore on your behalf: but yet I would have you wise unto that which is good, and simple concerning evil. Paul tells us how important it is to be obedient to the Lord. He wants us to be wise in doing right and to stay away from doing wrong. (Matthew 10:16, Philippians 2:15). Live clean and sincere lives so that no one can criticize you. Live as Children of God, shinning as bright lights to a world of crooked and perverse nations.

²⁰ And the God of peace shall bruise Satan under your feet shortly. The grace of our Lord Jesus Christ be with you. Amen. Our God of peace will soon crush Satan under our feet. (Malachi 4:3, Luke 10:19).

²¹ Timotheus my workfellow, and Lucius, and Jason, and Sosipater, my kinsmen, salute you. This would be Timothy of the new testament who came from a mixed marriage. His fathers name was unknown and was a Greek Gentile. He either died, or disappeared during his son's infancy. Timothy was raised by his mother Eunice and his grandmother Lois. Lucius was a kinsmen or fellow tribesman of Paul. He was ordained a bishop of the church of Cenchreae. Jason was called the Thessalonian, entertained Paul and Silas, and was in consequence attacked by the Jewish mob. Sosipater was also a kinsmen or fellow tribesman of St. Paul.

²² I Tertius, who wrote this epistle, salute you in the Lord. Tertius (a Roman), the one who wrote the letter for Paul, also sends his greetings to the brethren.

²³ Gaius mine host, and of the whole church, saluteth you. Erastus the chamberlain of the city saluteth you, and Quartus a brother. Gaius was a Macedonian who accompanied Paul in his travels, and who's life was in danger from the mob at Ephesus. Erastus (the city treasurer), was one of the attendants to Paul at Ephesus. He was sent forward with Timothy to Macedonia. (Acts 19:22). Quartus was a Christian of Corinth and became a bishop of Berytus.

²⁴ The grace of our Lord Jesus Christ be with you all. Amen. The grace of our Lord Jesus Christ with them all was the blessing.

²⁵ Now to him that is of power to stablish you according to my gospel, and the preaching of Jesus Christ, according to the revelation of the mystery, which was kept secret since the world began. It is the glory of God that makes us strong, as the "Good News" says. The message of Jesus Christ has revealed His plan to the Gentiles. (Acts 15:12). A plan that has been kept secret from the beginning of time. What is this mystery? (Matthew 13:35). Jesus would open secrets in parables that were kept secret since the beginning of time, the foundation of the world. Foundation here is "Themelios" in the Greek; at a time of the "Katabole," or overthrow of Satan in the first earth age. (Ephesians 3:3-5). Not only that the gentiles are included in His plan of salvation, but the mystery of the first earth age. You can read of this mystery in our study topic "The three earth ages," and appendix 146 of the King James Companion Bible. Not all were meant to understand, but now He gives us understanding through the Holy Spirit.  

²⁶ But now is made manifest, and by the scriptures of the prophets, according to the commandment of the everlasting God, made known to all nations for the obedience of faith. Through the prophets it was made known as God has commanded this message to be revealed to Gentiles everywhere, so that they too might believe and obey Him. (Acts 13:47). This is as the Lord commanded. I have made you a light to the gentiles, to lead them from the farthest corners of the earth to my salvation. Paul quoting from the old testament. (Isaiah 49:6).

²⁷ To God only wise, be glory through Jesus Christ for ever. Amen. All the glory goes to the Heavenly Father, through Jesus Christ forever. "And that's the way it is." Always give all the glory to the Heavenly Father in anything you do, and He will bless you.

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