Paul didn’t write Romans to me. He wrote it to the church in Rome.
God however, through the writings of Paul, wrote Romans for me.

Not to me … but for me.

For over 10 years Bill and I have facilitated a study on Zoom on Romans for several  Navigator campus staff. Our purpose is learning to read Romans through the lens of grace, not performance. We start the end of September each year and end in April.

The last week is always a pondering week — how have I heard from God through this study?

Romans and Grace — my personal take-aways:

1. Grace is relational. It is more than a theology I buy into, it’s an environment I’m invited to live in. Environment always trumps message. Grace creates an attractive aroma that draws others in.

Our neighbor is not interested in attending church with me. But she does respond to be invited for tea. Our conversations always lead to scripture. And also motivate her to go home and do some digging. Our friendship is carrying the gospel of grace to her.

2. Grace is redemptive.  Training us to renounce … Titus 2:12,13.

3. Grace re-orders. Law — I have to do to be. Grace — Because I am, I do.

4. Grace requires rehearsal. II Tim 2:1   Be strong in grace.  Depends on the story you are telling yourself.

5. Grace is reflective of the character of God.

6. Grace is release … freedom Galatians 5:1