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A STUDY IN COVENANT THEOLOGY

AN EXPOSITION OF THE BOOK OF ROMANS

(Romans-RASV-1901)

ROMANS-OVERVIEW

   THOUGH this complex transition from Israel to the Christian Church is precisely explained here in the book of Romans, I have not found a single commentary that has correctly deciphered this complicated riddle: A very difficult riddle that has so much Scriptural consequence for all of God’s peoples. Therefore, the book of Romans with its sixty-six confirmed or fulfilled Old Testament references (which is, by the way, second only to the book of Matthew in all of the New Testament) must also be viewed toward the discovery of its eschatological insights.

THE THEOLOGY OF ROMANS

   The following brief descriptions that are being given for these various sections taken from the book of Romans, are intended only to highlight those things that the body of this work will more fully illustrate.

   Then finally from this introduction, to fully understand the designed purpose and the breadth of God’s Abrahamic Covenant of Grace, we must fully comprehend these important details from the book of Romans:

   Rom.1:1-15 boldly introduces us to the revelation of the "Gospel of God". Where the gospel of God is defined as the good news concerning the distribution of God’s boundless grace through the propitiatory work of His Son; the seed of David; the Messiah: our Lord Jesus Christ. Then here in these passages, we are also given some important terms that the book of Romans develops and defines: [1] God’s gospel. [2] God’s promise. [3] God’s Spirit. [4] God’s grace through the propitiatory work of Christ. [5] God’s faith. [6] God’s saints. [7] God’s universal reconciliation.

   Rom.1:16 through 2:24 explains the universal character of God’s reconciliation, by telling us that God’s gospel is the power of God unto salvation to everyone who believes. It is only through the fulfilled death, burial, and resurrection of our Lord Jesus Christ that has enabled God’s grace to flow wherever God wills. God then shows His strong hand in the established equality in His justification and in His condemnation. The central point is not that the Jews are being excluded from God’s reconciliation, but the message to be found here in the book of Romans is that the Nations are now being included in God’s reconciliation. His whole creation is included in this edict.

   Rom.2:25-27; 2:28-29; 9:6-8 reveals and defines the present existence of both the visible characteristics and the invisible characteristics of God’s dispositions: And that, it is only God who establishes and controls all of these complex elements. We must also remember that God’s visible dispositions and God’s invisible dispositions are always coexistent within His entire reconciliation—inclusive of both the Old and New Testament dispensations. Additional terms: [8] Visible Jew. [9] Invisible Jew. [10] Visible Circumcision. [11] Invisible Circumcision.

   NOW IF THIS IS THE FACTUAL CASE CONCERNING VISIBLE ISRAEL:

1. An evident removal of visible Israel from their former place of preeminence.
2. The revelation of the invisible characteristics of God’s peoples.
3. Comprehending that it is only the invisible Jews, the invisible Circumcision, and invisible Israel who are in fact the Jews, the Circumcision, and the Israel who make-up the Elect Priests of God.
4. Though the invisible peoples of God are always a participating part of the visible peoples of God, the visible peoples of God are not necessarily an inclusive part of the invisible peoples of God. That there are in fact two separate and distinct categories of people groups here—the one visible and the other invisible.
5. Recognizing that because of the revealed complex character of God’s peoples found here in Romans, some might have mistakenly concluded that visible Israel was altogether removed from God’s grace and mercy.

All of which is the precise reason why Paul then goes on in chapter three to ask and answer some crucial questions concerning his brethren—

   Rom.3:1-31 gives us more insight into the universal character of God’s gracious reconciliation, as well as Israel’s inclusive role in all of these covenant matters. Remember, they were the first peoples to be entrusted with the oracles of God. But at the very same time, it is also extremely important that we continue to keep God’s law in an active mode—As God’s law and God’s grace are always coexistent within God’s reconciliation. Additionally, God’s grace is also expressed in the fact that Israel’s lack of faith did not hinder the flow of God’s grace at all. God’s promises always stand firm. Added term: [12] God’s law. [13] Works.

   Rom.4:1-25 explains God’s original intent, by exploring the universal character of the Covenant of Grace that was initially made with father Abraham. Explaining that from the very beginning, both the circumcision and the uncircumcision were, by God’s prophetic design, to be included within this Abrahamic Covenant of Grace. Then Romans chapter four also verifies the evident preeminence of God’s boundless grace as it fulfills His law. Yet even here, we are to observe that God’s grace is now being brought into full view by the contrasting of the law and grace—by validating God’s grace as preeminent to any and all works that one might suppose to do. For additional insight, we are also instructed on the two features of circumcision: They are the visible sign and the invisible seal. (Ref. Eph.1:3; 4:30) Additional terms: [14] The flesh. [15] The Creature’s Total Depravity. (3:10-18) [16] Transgression; trespass; sin. [17] The Dead. [18] Justification. [19] God’s seed—the children of promise.

   Rom.5:, 6:, 7:, and 8: gives us more of the details about where we are in God’s reconciliation, by explaining precisely how we got there. That it is by God’s grace, grace, wonderful grace. We should also notice the subtle definitions that are being given to both the visible and the invisible characteristics of God’s dispositions. Added terms: [20] The mind of the flesh. [21] The mind of the Spirit. [22] Sons of God. [23] Children of God. [24] God’s elect.

   Rom.9: and 10 details visible Israel’s inclusive role in demonstration of the universal character of God’s reconciliation, as He fully manifests His absolute grace through the unwavering faith of His dear Son.

add: [25] Visible Israel. [26] Invisible Israel. [27] Children of promise.

   Rom.11: reveals more of the transition in God’s universal reconciliation, by exploring and explaining the continued hope that remains for His visible peoples Israel. More terms: [28] The remnant Israel. [29] The rest of Israel. [30] The Holy Olive Tree. [31] The Holy Firstfruit. [32] The Holy Root. [33] The Holy lump. [34] The Holy branches.

   Rom.11:7-10 clearly reveals the predicted conditions for visible Israel throughout God’s reconciliation: But especially noticing the changes during the transition period, and then continuing on through the duration of His reconciliation. (Ref.Isa.6:9-10; Mat.13:13-17; Rom.9:33; Acts.28:25; Ps.69:22-23; Rom.11:25-32)

   Rom.11:25-32 specifically reveals God’s absolute plan for His visible peoples. Which is, in all reality, representative of the whole institutional corporate peoples of God. This is God’s absolute promise for their ultimate delivery from their bondage. (Ref.Rom.8:19-21)

   Rom.15:8-12, 21 confirms the transition within God’s reconciliation and the promises that were made to visible Israel. (Ref.Gal.4:4-5; Rom.3:24-26)