Here Paul continues to address the relationship of the Jews with God, a relationship that has been defined by their covenant relationship with him. Paul addresses their likely thought in response to Chapter 2: Why do we deserve the same judgment as unrighteous Gentiles who do not have a covenant relationship with God? Paul addresses this through 4 sets of 2 questions (v. 1, 3, 5, 7-8). Paul asserts and demonstrates throughout that the gospel affirms the promises, faithfulness, justice and truth of God; and you must personally accept this good news.

Throughout Romans, Paul offers a defense of what he believes and teachers about the gospel for these believers in Rome he has not yet met. Some of them may have been questioning him, his message and how it relates to Judaism. Paul writes to explain at length the connection of Jesus, the gospel and defend it, in spite of the rejection of Jesus as the Jewish Messiah by many Jews.