This was especially true of the believers who lived in the capital city of Rome. So it was that when Paul decided visit the city, he first sent them a letter outlining the key principles and "doctrines" of the Christian faith. Paul explained humans are really like (sinful), what God has done to provide an escape from the consequences of humanity's sin, and what a lifestyle that goes out of a Christian worldview looks like. Today, we know to know the same! We need to have a deep understanding of what we believe so we know how to respond when faced with other beliefs that go against Christ.
Each study in the NIV Application Commentary Resources series employs a three-step process to help you understand both the historical meaning of a biblical text and its relevance in modern times. The original meaning section reveals the questions and concerns the author was addressing. The past to present section then explains what significance the original audience would have found in the passage and what significance you can find in it today. Finally, the questions that accompany each section will help you specifically apply the author's words and teachings and find meaning in them for what you are facing in your life.
Lessons:
Kevin G. Harney?is lead pastor of Shoreline Church in Monterey, California. He is the author of many books, including?No Is a Beautiful Word,?Seismic Shifts, and the Organic Outreach?Trilogy, as well as more than a hundred small group guides, curriculum, and numerous articles written in partnership with Sherry. Kevin and his wife Sherry are co-founders of Organic Outreach International, a ministry that trains and resources global leaders to do evangelism in natural and effective ways. He also does extensive teaching and speaking both nationally and internationally.
Douglas J. Moo (PhD, St. Andrews) is professor of New Testament emeritus at Wheaton College.