Continuing the series on Law and Gospel: 5. Does Paul draw a contrast or comparison between Romans 10:5 and 10:6-8? What is the significance of this contrast or comparison? According to the comparison view, 10:5 depicts the obedience of faith. This phrase is meant to describe obedience that originates in faith, meaning that the individual is empowered by the grace of God, which is imparted to him by the instrumentality of faith. The δὲ in between 10:5 and 10:6 is seen as continuative (“and”) such that the righteousness from the law (v. 5) and that of faith (v. 6) are understood not to … [Read more...] about Law and Gospel – Part VI
John Piper on Divorce and Remarriage
John Piper gave a superb sermon on divorce and remarriage, which is to be continued this coming weekend. … [Read more...] about John Piper on Divorce and Remarriage
Southern Baptists and Elders
Denny Burk offers some helpful observations about Southern Baptists, The Baptist Faith and Message, and Elders. … [Read more...] about Southern Baptists and Elders
CBMW Appoints David Kotter as Executive Director
CBMW announces: "The board of The Council on Biblical Manhood and Womanhood (CBMW) recently appointed church leader and former businessman David Kotter as the organization’s new executive director." I am personally encouraged by this move, as I recently heard some great things about Mr. Kotter. And may I add -- A bachelor's degree in engineering is a great background for tackling theological conundrums! (HT: JT) … [Read more...] about CBMW Appoints David Kotter as Executive Director
Law and Gospel – Part V
Returning to the Law-Gospel series: 4. What does it mean that Christ is the τέλος of the law (Rom. 10:4)? One must first consider what Paul meant by “law” in this verse. Historically, four different concepts have been set forth: (1) law in some general sense; (2) Old Testament revelation; (3) legalism; and (4) Mosaic law. Though a detailed treatment cannot be made here, the fourth option is preferable given the context and how Paul refers to the law earlier in Romans (namely, as a body of commandments given uniquely to Israel which functioned to give them a particular, national … [Read more...] about Law and Gospel – Part V
Stephen Westerholm
Stephen Westerholm's Perspectives Old and New on Paul: The "Lutheran" Paul and His Critics is one of the most outstanding books I have ever read or seen on the issues of Paul, the law, and justification. Westerholm masterfully summaries the views of Augustine, Luther, Calvin, and Wesley on matters such as sin, law, and redemption. Then he chronicles twentieth century responses to Paul, both those who are critical to the "Lutheran" slant on Paul (sharp dichotomy between law and gospel) -- everyone from Albert Schweitzer, Krister Stendahl, E.P. Sanders, N.T. Wright, James D.G. Dunn -- and … [Read more...] about Stephen Westerholm