Romans 1:1-17

Paul’s introduction, not usually the part of the letter that we focus on, but in this introduction are the keys to who Jesus is and why that matters.

“Romans 1:1-7 constitutes the most extensive salutation and greeting of any of Paul’s letters. Because Paul had not yet been to Rome, he cannot rely on a personal relationship having already been established and needs to provide an introduction of himself and the gospel he proclaims. That these two are inseparable is made clear from the way in which they are introduced here.” Beverly Gaventa, Texts for Preaching, Year A, p 33)
In identifying himself, he identifies Christ, and he identifies all who follow Christ.
Paul is first and foremost, a “slave of Christ.” NRSV softens this to “servant of Christ.” What you use may be contextual, but slave of Christ involves a social lowering that servant does not.
Apostle: “authorized and commissioned representative”

Apostle and Slave seem to create a paradox. A slave is low status, low relationship. A “commissioned representative” carries with it great weight and dignity.

NRSV makes clause out of vs 1-2 and has v. 1-7 all as one sentence.
Common English leaves vs. 1 as one sentence. Then combines verses 2-3 into one sentence. Then has 4-7 as distinct sentences describing Jesus.

Is that at baptism? Is that through his ministry? Is that by people like Peter, or even the Centurion at the Cross?
Identified as God’s Son through his resurrection
The key to this whole thing is Resurrection.

Not to fix or change but to share in the mutuality of faithfulness and companionship
Paul wants to see the good news that is flourishing in Rome
Paul recognizes that he doesn't know everything but has things he can learn

When you introduce yourself, how do you start. Most of us wouldn’t start with “slave of Jesus Christ.” We may even know someone who does use that kind of language, but most in mainline churches would not. Why not? Is Jesus a part of our identity, or is Jesus just someone we enjoy learning about?
Two Callings: First is Paul’s, then is ours. Paul is “set apart” for the Gospel. “Our appointment to be apostles” is shared by “You who are called by Jesus Christ.” Paul is called to be an apostle, and he is writing to a group of people who are also called to be apostles, sent out among the Gentiles.

“This double calling of Paul and his audience both frames the introduction and sets the agenda for the whole letter.” (Elizabeth Shively, Working Preacher)
Can we claim this as a time to be called to be an apostle.
Eastertide as a time to renew our apostleship.

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