Romans 9–16: A Theological Exposition of Sacred Scripture (Concordia Commentary | CC)

by Michael P. Middendorf

Publisher:

Concordia Publishing House

, 2016

Overview

Romans conveys the timeless truths of the Gospel to all people of all times and places. That very fact explains the tremendous impact the letter has had ever since it was first written. In this letter, Paul conveys the essence of the Christian faith in a universal manner that has been cherished by believers—and challenged by unbelievers—perhaps more so than any other biblical book.

In Romans 1–8, Paul discloses the righteousness of God and our life in and through our Lord Jesus Christ. But he is only half done! Romans 9–16 continues Paul's comprehensive exposition of the theme articulated in 1:16–17. We find some of Paul’s richest theology in his analysis of Israel and the church in Romans 9–11. And his appeals for Christian living in chapters 12–15 are supported and strengthened by the theological foundations of the Gospel. Finally, it is not until Romans 14–16 that we receive vital clues for identifying the original audience and for discerning the overall purposes behind his most magnificent treatise.

Key Features

• Provides clear exposition of the Law and Gospel theology in Paul’s most comprehensive epistle
• Features an in-depth overview of the context, flow of Paul’s argument, and commonly discussed issues in each passage
• Includes detailed textual notes on the Greek, with a well-reasoned explanation of the apostle’s message

Contents

Top Highlights

“Since there is, in fact, only one tree, that tree would, it seems, be God’s ‘Israel.’” (Page 1155)

“Theologically, 9:30–10:5 centers on diagnosing why those characterized as ‘Israel’ fail to receive the righteousness of God in faith. Paul contends that their attempt to secure ‘their own’ righteousness (10:3) ‘as [if it could be attained] from works’ of the Law explains their stumbling (9:32). Yet Paul also includes his own fervent ‘plea’ for a change (10:1).” (Page 945)

“Thus νόμος reflects its most common Pauline understanding, as a reference to the commands of God’s Law.⁵⁹ The phrase then communicates that ‘the law ‘promises’ righteousness when its demands are met’ (as in 7:10; see also 10:5).” (Page 948)

“‘While this transformation is not the Christians’ own doing but the work of the Holy Spirit, they nevertheless have a real responsibility in the matter—to let themselves be transformed, to respond to the leading and pressure of God’s Spirit.’” (Page 1221)

“Third, in regard to Yahweh’s treatment of Esau, ‘it must be stressed that, as in the case of Ishmael, so also with Esau, the rejected one is still, according to the testimony of Scripture, an object of God’s merciful care.’” (Page 863)

Praise for the Print Edition

Throughout the book of Romans, Paul keeps Jesus Christ and the kingdom that his death and resurrection have graciously brought us at the heart of the discussion. And in this commentary Dr. Michael Middendorf does the same with the skill of a professor and an exegete as well as with the heart of a pastor who cares for his people. Not only are there original language nuggets and detailed textual research throughout, but Dr. Middendorf also brings to bear the church fathers, the Lutheran Confessions, and other scholars to amplify the centrality of the Gospel in all things. Especially helpful are the summary sections of the work that recap the message for both the lay reader and the pastor. Romans clearly delineates the person and work of Jesus as the key that unlocks the whole of the Scriptures. Dr. Michael Middendorf provides an in-depth, comprehensive look into what that Good News means for us all. This commentary is a must-have on every believer’s shelf.

—Rev. Dr. Gregory P. Seltz, The Voice of The Lutheran Hour, Lutheran Hour Ministries

Michael Middendorf’s commentary on Romans is now complete! It is a pleasure to welcome this work on Romans 9–16, which displays the same fine characteristics of the first volume. The thorough, thoughtful, and careful interaction with other interpreters of Romans and contemporary literature that runs through the commentary is truly excellent. Yet Middendorf listens first and foremost to the text and faithfully formulates his own answers to interpretive questions. His patient hearing of the text will bring other readers of Romans to do so as well. His cross-referencing and review of earlier sections of his argument is especially useful and will help others to understand the message of Romans as a whole. This commentary will have its impact in the pulpit and in the pew.

—Mark Seifrid, professor of exegetical theology, Concordia Seminary, St. Louis

The second volume of Dr. Middendorf’s work on Romans is very welcome indeed. I found it especially helpful in bringing us up-to-date on the range of various views of the epistle which have surfaced since the previous generation of commentaries. Middendorf has proven quite able at leading non-specialists deeply into the words of St. Paul and what he is really saying, as opposed to arriving at premature conclusions based on a surface reading alone. Readers of the Concordia Commentary series will be glad to add this new contribution to the strong lineup we have already seen. This book has left me itching to get out there and unpack the treasures of Romans as a preacher to Christ’s people!

—Rev. Dr. Robert Bugbee, president, Lutheran Church-Canada

Product Details

• Title: Romans 9–16
• Author: Michael P. Middendorf
• Series: Concordia Commentary
• Publisher: Concordia Publishing House
• Print Publication Date: 2016
• Logos Release Date: 2017
• Pages: 832
• Era: era:contemporary
• Language: English
• Resources: 1
• Format: Digital › Logos Research Edition
• Subject: Bible. N.T. Romans 9-16 › Commentaries
• ISBNs: 9780758638670, 0758638671
• Resource ID: LLS:CONCOM66ROM2
• Resource Type: Bible Commentary
• Metadata Last Updated: 2025-01-07T23:27:44Z

About Michael P. Middendorf

Michael P. Middendorf is professor of theology at Concordia University, Irvine, California. He is the author of several books and articles including The "I" in the Storm: A Study of Romans 7, The Bud Has Flowered: Trinitarian Theology in the New Testament, and Concordia Commentary: Romans 1–8. He also serves on the Commission on Theology and Church Relations of The Lutheran Church-Missouri Synod.

Sample Pages from Romans 9–16: A Theological Exposition of Sacred Scripture (Concordia Commentary | CC)