People of Romans

The People of Romans are identified through a theological argument that spans human history and a concluding list of specific individuals in the first-century church. Paul introduces himself as a servant of Jesus, whom he identifies as a descendant of David according to the flesh (Romans 1:1–3). To explain the nature of sin and grace, the text looks back to Adam through whom death entered the world, contrasting him with the gift of life found in the Messiah (Romans 5:12–17). The narrative then moves to Abraham, who is presented as the father of all who believe because his faith was credited as righteousness before he was circumcised (Romans 4:1–12).

The text uses several figures from the history of Israel to explain God’s sovereignty and the inclusion of the Gentiles. Sarah is mentioned as the one who received the promise of a son despite her old age (Romans 9:9). The text further describes how Rebekah was told that her elder son would serve the younger before they were even born (Romans 9:10–12). To demonstrate God's power, the author cites Pharaoh, as someone raised up specifically so that God’s name might be proclaimed (Romans 9:17). The text also quotes the prophets Hosea and Isaiah to show that God intended to call a people who were not originally his own (Romans 9:25–27).

In the final section of the letter, the focus shifts to a diverse group of contemporary believers. Phoebe is introduced as a deacon of the church in Cenchreae who has been a benefactor to many (Romans 16:1–2). Paul greets Priscilla and Aquila calling them fellow workers who risked their lives for him (Romans 16:3–4). He also identifies Andronicus and Junia as his kinsmen and fellow prisoners who are well known among the apostles (Romans 16:7). The letter concludes with greetings from those present with the author, including Tertius, who notes that he is the one physically writing the letter (Romans 16:22), and Erastus, the city treasurer (Romans 16:23).

These individuals represent the practical application of the letter’s core message regarding the unity of Jews and Greeks. By naming figures like Javan to represent the nations (Romans 11:25) alongside the root of Jesse (Romans 15:12), the text argues that the promise made to the patriarchs has been extended to all people. The inclusion of specific names such as Epaenetus, the first convert in Asia (Romans 16:5), and Urbanus, a fellow worker (Romans 16:9), serves to document the actual growth of the early Christian movement across the Roman Empire.