The book of Romans is one of the early New Testament texts, written, most scholars agree, between late 55 and early 57. A few scholars date the book as early as 53, but, overall, the consensus on the 55–57 dating is strong. It is also accepted by the vast majority of scholars that Paul actually wrote this work. (Later works attributed to Paul are often understood to be written by followers.)

The dating is important as it shows how rapidly the early Christian church spread after the death of Jesus. Jesus died between 26 and 36, as that is the period in which Pilate governed in Israel. The dating of Romans shows that within thirty years, the new faith had spread widely across the empire. Paul's authorship is also important because the biblical books authoritatively understood to have been written by Paul, such as Romans and Corinthians, are more radical in their understanding of the Christian message than later, contested works, such as first and second Timothy or Titus.

Romans is one of the most important New Testament texts because it argues for justification through faith and emphasizes the inward transformation of the believer, rather than the following of an outward set of rules.