Interpreting Romans for Community Formation

Paul's letter to the Romans emphasizes the importance of community formation and transformation rather than individual faith. It calls for the church to be an alternative and new way of being human, reflecting the future kingdom of God. Living out the gospel entails being a peaceable community, bearing one another's differences, and engaging in reconciling work. Romans 14 highlights the need for justice, peace, and joy in the Holy Spirit. The letter invites the church to be instruments in God's hands, working towards righteousness and participating in God's saving activity. Romans challenges believers to build strong communities amidst the forces that may push against it in the modern era.