by J. Aaron White
I blush to post this series of blogs. Men of much greater intellectual and spiritual stature than I have masterfully unpacked Paul's magnum opus, the Book of Romans. Yet I experienced the joy (and headache) of preaching through Romans for over four years to a local congregation. I realize that four years is a paltry attempt compared to the likes of Lloyd-Jones or Piper, but I tried nonetheless.
What follows is my attempt to help you, fellow preacher, bring your flock joyfully, soundly, and Christ-exaltingly through the Book of Romans. The sermon outlines provided are in no way meant to bind your conscience. If you feel that your exegesis is clearer and more faithful to the text, please use your own!
(Romans 2:1-5) - The Impartial Judge pt. 1: Lessons from Self-Righteous Jews
Main Point: Neither pedigree nor moralism can save us from God's righteous judgment because . . .
I. He disdains self-righteous hypocrisy (v. 1)
II. He alone is able to judge rightly (vv. 2-3)
III. He is exceedingly merciful yet dreadfully righteous (vv. 4-5)
(Romans 2:6-11) - The Impartial Judge pt. 2: Justification by Faith and the Role of Works
Main Point: Either eternal wrath or eternal joy awaits every one of us. Therefore, we must understand . . .
I. God cannot be fooled by external facades (vv. 6, 11)
II. Imperfect but fruitful perseverance is rewarded with eternal life (vv. 7, 10)
III. Rebellious and self-glorifying defiance will be rewarded with eternal wrath (vv. 8-9)
(Romans 2:12-16) - The Impartial Judge pt. 3: The Law, the Heart, and the Conscience
Main Point: Sinful humans will suffer the consequences of impartial divine judgment whether they possess God's written law or not. Therefore...
I. The punishment will fit the crime (v. 12)
II. Actions speak louder than words (v. 13)
III. Consciences convict and condemn (vv. 14-15)
IV. Only God-glorifying motivations matter (v. 16)
(Romans 2:17-24) - Boasting and Blaspheming: Jewish Pride and the Damning Effects of Hypocrisy
Main Point: On the Day of judgment, God will vindicate his honor by punishing everyone who makes empty claims of religious affiliation. Therefore . . .
I. Find your identity in Christ alone (v. 17a)
II. Pursue humble obedience to the glory of God (v. 17b-24)
(Romans 2:25-29) - Signs Don't Save: Jews, Gentiles, and the Grace of God
Main Point: External signs don't save, only the internal work of grace can. Therefore . . .
I. Outward religious conformity without inward change is worthless (v. 25)
II. Grace-empowered obedience exposes and devalues empty formalism (vv. 26-27)
III. We are saved by grace alone, to the glory of God alone (vv. 28-29)