Biblical Answer

Paul's letter to the Romans is a rich and complex document that has been studied and debated by scholars for centuries. The question of what Paul means in Romans 1 is a crucial one, as it sets the tone for the rest of the letter. Paul begins by introducing himself as a bondservant of Jesus Christ, called to be an apostle (1:1). He then launches into a description of the gospel, which he calls the "righteousness of God" (1:17). This phrase is a central theme of the letter, and Paul will develop it throughout the book.

The phrase "righteousness of God" is a complex one, and its meaning has been debated by scholars for centuries. Paul uses the Greek word dikaiosyne, which can be translated as either "righteousness" or "justice." In this context, Paul is likely using the word to refer to the idea of God's justice or righteousness being revealed in the gospel. However, the phrase is also closely tied to the concept of God's wrath, as Paul writes, "The wrath of God is revealed from heaven against all ungodliness and unrighteousness of men, who by their unrighteousness suppress the truth" (1:18). This suggests that the "righteousness of God" is not just a abstract concept, but rather a living reality that is revealed in the gospel and is opposed to the unrighteousness of humanity.

In Romans 1, Paul is setting the stage for the rest of the letter, which will explore the theme of God's righteousness and justice in greater depth. He is addressing both Jewish and Gentile Christians, and is emphasizing the idea that the gospel is not just a message of salvation, but also a message of judgment. The "righteousness of God" is not just a abstract concept, but rather a living reality that is revealed in the gospel and is opposed to the unrighteousness of humanity. This theme will be developed throughout the letter, as Paul explores the idea of God's justice and righteousness in relation to humanity. The "righteousness of God" is a central theme of the letter, and Paul will use it to explore the idea of God's justice and righteousness in relation to humanity.