Two ways to read Romans 4 are: (i) Paul is using Abraham as an example that we come into a right relationship with God through our faith and not the law, or (ii) Paul’s entire argument is based upon God’s promise to Abraham and it fulfillment in Jesus.
For tonight, think through the argument against Paul’s argument. Think through the position of the Jewish teacher he writes against. Where does the teacher place his trust? What makes him right before God? Why would it have been difficult for the teacher to give up his obedience to the Law?
Romans 2:12-3:31, pt.2 Read More »
The Jewish teacher Paul is arguing against presumably believes himself to be a good and faithful follower of Jesus and simply wants the other members of the congregation (and particularly the Gentiles) to obey the rules laid down in Scripture (as the teacher interprets and applies them).
Romans 2:12-3:31, pt.1 Read More »
The heart of Paul’s argument in this passage is contained in the word “Therefore” in Romans 2:1. Paul’s argument is not about Gentile idolatry, but about holier-than-thou judgments by pious Jewish Christians who seek to set themselves apart.
Romans 1:18-2:29, pt.2 Read More »
Within the readings this week, Paul tells us that all people can know God through natural revelation and people can know what God requires through the natural law.
Romans 1:18-2:29, pt.1 Read More »
Under the New Persepctive, the question Paul answers is not “What must I do to be saved?” but “How do the life, death, and resurrection of Jesus fit into God’s continuing faithfulness to the promises he made to Abraham to bless all people and all creation through his seed (Gen 12:3)?”
Romans 1:1-17, pt.2 Read More »
When we look at the audience and purpose of Paul’s letter, there are three main points to keep in mind: (1) the gospel breaks down all walls, (2) the tension between Jews and Gentiles, and (3) Paul’s future missionary work.
Romans 1:1-17, pt.1 Read More »
All of Paul’s other letters are sent to individuals or to churches that he founded and are addressed to the specific needs of that congregation. Paul, however, hasn’t been to Rome, and therefore, this letter serves as an introduction to his teaching.
Romans – An Introduction Read More »
Let us be like Joseph, always increasing in virtue, and taking hold of that which is truly good. And let us also take the Body of Jesus, through Holy Communion, and place It in a tomb hewn out of a rock, that is, place It within a soul which always remembers God and does not forget Him. – Theophylact of Ohrid (c.1050-c.1107)
Imitation of Christ – Book 4, Ch.12-15, pt.2 Read More »
Enter into the story of the Road to Emmaus. Read the passage slowly, reverentially, and expectantly allowing yourself to live into the story itself. Reflect on the part of the story that resonates with you, particularly its conclusion that the Risen Jesus is known in the breaking of the bread.
Imitation of Christ – Book 4, Ch.8-11, pt.2 Read More »
