The Mystery of Romans: The Jewish Context of Paul's Letter

Pauls letter to the Romans says Nanos is an example of Jewish correspondence addressing believers in Jesus who are steeped in Jewish ways-whether of Jewish or gentile origin. Arguing against those who think Paul was an apostate from Judaism Nanos maintains Pauls continuity with his Jewish heritage. Several key arguments here are: Those addressed in Pauls letter were still an integral part of the Roman synagogue communities. The weak are non- Christian Jews while the strong included both Jewish and gentile converts to belief in Jesus. Paul as a practicing devout Jew insists on the rules of behavior for the righteous gentiles. Christian subordination to authorities (Romans 13:1-7) is intended to enforce submission to leaders of the synagogues not Roman government officials. Paul behaves in a way to confirm the very Jewish portrait of him in Acts: going first to the synagogues.