Imputation Contended and Defended Romans 5:12-21 is considered the locus classicus for the doctrine of "imputation"; that is, the imputation of Adam's sin, guilt, and penalty to humankind and of Christ's righteousness to the believer. However, the ‘New Perspective on Paul’ significantly contends against “imputation”. For example, as one of the most influential proponents, we … [Read more...]
Romans: The Universality of Judgement & Justification, Part 4b
EXPOSITION: Chapter 3:1-31 In v. 1-8 the apostle continues to address the Jews, although, he now rhetorically poses the potential conclusions (v. 1, 3, 5, 7, 8) from the previous passage (2:17-29), asserting that they are fallacious (v. 2, 4, 6, 9). He has so radically redefined the Jew that it begs the question of: 1) their advantage above the Gentiles; 2) the value of … [Read more...]
Romans: Kingdom through Covenant, Part 1
The question will be asked, why another commentary on Romans? First, because Romans provides the ABC's of the Gospel, it is Christianity 101. From the early church to the present day, it has been recognised as the foundational teaching of Christianity, providing the Bible's most complete statement concerning God's purpose for humankind, its fall from that purpose, and his … [Read more...]
The Gospel & Cultural Transformation: Natural Law or God’s Law?
The current emphasis on the Gospel's power to renew cities and culture is a great positive. Nevertheless, it provokes an important question. Let us assume city and cultural renewal gets traction – which, increasingly, it will – the next question is how do we determine the ethics and laws by which a renewed and just society should be governed. As a Christian you would … [Read more...]
God Revealed in History: Covenant Realities for Today
"In the beginning God..."—Unlike the pagan gods of antiquity, the God of the Bible is revealed as the God of history, not only as the eternal and infinite God but also as the Creator and Governor of the time-space world. This God purposed, from his eternal counsels (Jn 17:5, 24; Eph 1:4; 1 Pet 1:20; Rev 13:8), to bring together – in the fullness of the times (i.e. in history) – … [Read more...]
