ROMANS, BOOK OF

Paul's letter to the Christians in Rome develops the theme of God's gospel plan of justification for sinful man on the ground Christ's atoning death. The book demonstrates that redemption could not be effected by means of the law of Moses; rather, it is achieved through "the faith" system. While salvation is received on the basis of "faith," it is not an inactive faith, but an obedient faith (1:5; 16:26). The sinner receives "newness of life" when he is buried with Christ in baptism (6:3ff).