The biblical book of Romans is actually a letter, written by Paul to Christians in Rome. This morning, I was reminded to consider reading this as a letter, rather than a theology textbook or a proof text of my world-and-life view. Paul wrote this missive to Christians in Rome who were experiencing political, moral, and economic upheaval. He describes to them the differences between living in fellowship with God or with the world. Paul’s challenge them to not only know their Creator, Savior, and Lord, but to experience how fellowship with Him bears fruit in their lives that make them stand out from the world.

Paul’s letter is also addressed to me, to you, and to Christians throughout the world today.

¹⁸ But God shows his anger from heaven against all sinful, wicked people who suppress the truth by their wickedness. ¹⁹ They know the truth about God because he has made it obvious to them. ²⁰ For ever since the world was created, people have seen the earth and sky. Through everything God made, they can clearly see his invisible qualities—his eternal power and divine nature. So they have no excuse for not knowing God.

Romans 1:18-20, NLT

What specifics do we learn about GOD, PEOPLE, TRUTH, and CREATION? Chart your discoveries.

GOD. What do we see displayed about God in these verses? Can we see Him?

PEOPLE. Do we see God in the world, and does He show us? Or are we choosing an alternate explanation for what we see? What does Paul say is evident when we choose the alternative?

TRUTH. What does God say is the obvious truth we’ve been shown?

CREATION. Do you see creation or adhere to the Big Bang Theory or another alternative?

What is God’s main message to you today in verses 8-17?

What picture will you sketch or choose to explain His message to you today?

Tomorrow I’ll share what Paul wrote to me in his letter.

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