Introduction/Thesis
It is self-evident that an individual’s worldview affects their thought, behavior and action. One’s worldview is a major component of personality formation. Of the many parameters that constitute one’s worldview, belief in God is a crucial one. The worldview of a believer is sharply contrasted to that of a non-believer. Apostle Paul expounds on this point in his esteemed epistle addressed to the Romans. In Romans (1-8) he outlines how the worldview of a Christian is shaped with respect to the natural world, human identity, human relationships and culture. This essay will highlight St. Paul’s theological insights into each of these domains, as articulated in the Romans (1-8).
The Natural World
Paul believes how ‘justification’ of the penalty of sin is part of the divine order of things. He sees no marked difference between the divine mandate and the natural order of things. Paul informs the faithful that those among them who succumb to temptation can still salvage their soul. They can free themselves from the burden of their sins by joining with the spirit of Jesus. Since all individuals have sinned in one fashion or another, it is essential for all to seek salvation. Paul thus presents a pessimistic view of the nature of man. Man’s natural instincts are poisoned by lust, sloth, envy and other sinful tendencies, that he is seldom able to keep the law in front of God. (7:2) The faithful can hope to be secure in the material world, only when they aspire to conquer their natural degradations. Hence, Paul’s view of the natural world is that of a cynic, although, salvation is possible for those who obey the laws proscribed in the scriptures.
Human Identity
Paul suggests that ungodliness will lead to severe divine reprimand. By not acknowledging God’s omnipotent force, the doubters invoke the wrath of God. Paul cites from the Wisdom of Solomon in explaining how faith is central to human identity. In terms of character traits, Paul attacks hypocrisy in humans, especially the pompous variety exhibited by Jews. He recalls how Jews have been critical of others for not obeying laws, when in truth they are none better at it. He implores Christians and Jews alike not to be hypocritical. (2:2) Paul brings to bear his own composite identity on the content of the epistle. Paul was a Hellenistic Jew coming from a Pharisaic stock. Hence, even though a proponent of the message of Jesus Christ, Paul remembers his Jewish heritage. In an implicit fashion, Paul urges his audience to think about their identities in such broad and composite terms. In this way, the tensions experienced across communal fault lines can be made to dissipate.
Human Relationships
Through the epistle, Paul makes a pitch for harmonious human relations. Having been distressed by the communal tensions between Gentiles, Jews and Christians, Paul hopes to convey a message of human solidarity. Paul’s sincerity is evident in the ‘Jew first’ motto he employed in the address. He reminded the groups in strife that they are all brothers and share the same genealogical and socio-historical origins. As for intimate relations, Paul condemns unnatural sexual acts. Such tendencies will reduce the moral and spiritual strength of the indulger and lead him toward depravity. (1:18) Hence, Paul expects the faithful to approach human relations with the same solemnity that they display in Church. In the same vein, Paul comes down heavily on violence. He says how aggressive behaviour can easily turn murderous. Paul forewarns that such consequences will lead to eternal damnation. Further, Paul encourages the faithful to be humble and honest in their relations with fellow humans.
Culture
Paul expects his audience to maintain authenticity of their culture. In a veiled attack on primate belief systems, Paul cautions against idol worship. He hints how some of the decadence seen in Rome is attributable to this practice. (1:20) Paul goes on to state how a culture of forgiveness is an imperative for a morally sustainable community. Forgiveness is a recurrent theme in chapters 3 through 5, where Paul also links them with righteousness and lawfulness. To be a Christian faithful entails respect for the testimony of the prophets. At the same time, Paul warns how ‘false teachers’ have corrupted the minds of some Romans. In the Epistle, Paul shows sound grasp of the political issues in Rome. According to him, for the Gentiles and Jewish Christians to march ahead in their spiritual quest, the political atmosphere should be devoid of scandal and jostling for power. Even the Roman Church had been adversely affected by opportunistic leadership. Paul expresses hope that a cleaner political culture would soon emerge in Rome. (6:1)
Conclusion
In conclusion, we can clearly see how the Epistle to the Romans is rich in numerous pertinent themes. Paul explicates to the readers how divinity is written into the natural order of the world. At the same time, he cautions spiritual seekers against being driven by natural instincts. These instincts, according to Paul, will lead toward sin and moral destruction. In terms of identity, the faithful should remember their composite heritage. They should also avoid hypocritical behaviour and express solidarity with larger humanity. Finally, a culture of respect for prophets is a desirable quality in the true Christian. According to Paul, the political culture of Rome should be conducive to the practice of Christianity without coercion.
Reference:
Paul’s Letter to the Romans, Retrieved from <http://ebible.org/web/Romans.htm> on 30th June, 2014.