Reading Romans in Context

Simply put, “Reading Romans In Context,” is an academic work of art that clearly argues the need for recognizing the Jewish roots of Christianity’s most sacred text, that being the “Holy Bible.” As Christians, we serve the one and only, true and Living God, who came first to the Jews, and later engrafted the Gentiles into His plan for the Salvation of Mankind, via the sacrifice of the Blood of Jesus Christ. While reading this book, readers can expect to have their beliefs challenged, and their minds enlightened. In my opinion, this is a worthwhile text that can be utilized as a part of one’s daily devotional time.
Giving this one: 5 stars.

"Reading Romans in Context" is an essay collection that looked at various themes found in Romans and in Second Temple Jewish literature. Paul sometimes counters an argument that he apparently believes will be brought against his teachings, but it's not always clear what that argument is. By looking at Second Temple Jewish literature (like the Apocrypha, Pseudepigrapha, Dead Sea Scrolls, and the writings of Philo or Josephus), we can discover what other Jews around that time were teaching. The authors compare these to Romans to find similarities and where the teachings diverge.

The authors had a good understanding of Paul's teachings and used the comparison to add insights and nuances to our understanding of Romans. I found the essays interesting, especially the one on distinctive food habits. I didn't have any trouble following their arguments. There was a glossary in the back, but the terms were defined well enough in the text that I never needed to use it. I'd recommend this book to those interested in this topic.

Phrases and themes that were studied were: "son of God," God's wrath and divine justice, circumcision and covenant identity, "works of the law," "righteousness of God," the faith of Abraham, suffering of the righteous, death through Adam, slavery to sin or to righteousness, the Law's role, evil desires, human glorification linked to death, why God blesses or curses a person, righteousness by law vs. by faith and one's ability to keep the Law, Gentile inclusion, right living--self mastery vs. divine enabling, how one should interact with the government, distinctive food habits, God's role in our giving to the poor, and women in church ministry and leadership.