The theme of Paul's letter is simple. He expresses it this way in Romans 1:16...

This lesson is about the meaning, means, and method of that salvation. Paul's remarks about being "predestined" to salvation are more difficult. But at least they clearly imply that God has a predetermined purpose and plan (Rom 8:29-30) . This lesson examines God's plan of salvation under three headings.

The Meaning of Salvation

Salvation is the state of being saved. A child rescued after it has fallen into a swimming pool, or someone pulled back who was about to walk in front of a bus, has experienced salvation. But what is it that we are saved from in the salvation Paul had in mind? The answer is, we are saved from the wrath of God in the day of judgment (Rom 2:5-11) . Everyone (including you) has the need of that salvation (Rom 3:23) .

Some folk wrongly imagine that on judgment day God will put their good deeds in one side of his scales of justice, and their evil deeds on the other side of his scales, and their righteousness will balance their wickedness. But when they are "weighed in the balances" they will be "found wanting" because God will put all their deeds together in one side of his scales. In the other side of his scales he will put his perfect and holy law. They will fall short of this perfect standard, even if they are guilty of offending God's law in but one point. They will not stand justified before God (Rom 7:12, 3:19-20) .

The Means of Salvation

The problem has a solution (Rom 3:23, 7:22-25). We can be justified (and thus saved from God's wrath) through Jesus Christ. This salvation is possible by virtue of his death in which he shed his blood, his resurrection, ascension, and his intercession for us (Rom 5:6-11, 8:32-34) . Isn't that wonderful?

The Method of Salvation

What is expected from us, and what should we do, so that we can take advantage of the means of salvation? The list below tells you.

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