This unity would have been crucial to a predominantly Gentile Roman church that was now welcoming back the Jewish diaspora that had been expelled from Rome at the hands of Claudius (“to the Jew first and also to the Greek,” 1:16c). Paul appeals to Jews to remember that they are equally in need of Christ, and to Gentiles to remember their Jewish roots of faith. Others argue that Paul’s purpose is to unite Jew and Gentile in the Roman church. Some hold that Paul wrote primarily to give a theological treatise of the gospel (“ is the power of God for salvation to everyone who believes,” 1:16b). Between Paul’s discussion of sin and the Christian (Romans 7), predestination and election (Romans 9), and Israel and the Church (Romans 10-11), it is no wonder that pastors and theologians alike are often at odds over how to interpret Paul’s treatise.Įven Paul’s main purpose in writing the letter is largely up for debate. Not only is the book of Romans a favorite for many, it is also one of the most difficult books to interpret in the New Testament (perhaps Revelation aside). It is held by many as the pinnacle of Christian theology, as espoused by the Apostle Paul. Wrap-Up Lectures on DVD or CD may be ordered separately.The book of Romans is one of the most beloved books of the entire Bible. Romans also highlights the ethical demands of the gospel. Paul examines the new life attained in the Holy Spirit as God's gift and proclaims the mystery of God's plan to save Israel. It explores both the strength and limits of the law of Moses. It addresses the universal reality of sin in the world and the need for salvation in Jesus Christ. He reprimands the Galatians for deserting the Gospel by seeking justification through circumcision rather than through faith in Christ, who achieved our salvation by his sacrifice on the cross. Galatians addresses Paul's understanding of Christian freedom and justification by faith. The Commentary includes a helpful glossary which clarifies the meaning of terms frequently used in discussions of Paul's theology. Those who wish to adapt the study will find it easy to split the study into two parts or to simply focus on either Galatians or Romans, as best fits their needs. This study opens with Galatians because it was written first. Many of Paul's themes are shared by Galatians and Romans, but the tone and length of the two works differ sharply. Galatians and Romans are pivotal for those seeking to understand the faith and teaching of the Apostle Paul. He is currently preparing a similar commentary on the Gospel of John. Byrne is the author of numerous books, including Romans in the Sacra Pagina series and a three-volume commentary on the Synoptic Gospels (Liturgical Press). A member of the Pontifical Biblical Commission (1990–96) and Fellow of the Australian Academy of the Humanities (2000–), he is editor in chief of the theological journal Pacifica. Yeary (Romans) and a commentary, Galatians and Romans, by Brendan Byrne (Liturgical Press).īrendan Byrne, SJ, is professor of New Testament at Jesuit Theological College, Parkville, Victoria, Australia. The Study Set includes the Study Guide by Catherine Upchurch (Galatians) and Clifford M. This study has 14 sessions, incorporating an introductory session and 13 lessons.
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