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 3:1-8) - Let God be True: The Faithfulness of God Defended
Main Point: God is faithful both in his promises of blessing and his promises of punishment. Therefore...
I. God's privileges bring much responsibility (vv. 1-2)
II. God's judgment can and should fall on everyone (vv. 3-4)
III. God's wrath should have a place in our theology (vv. 5-6)
IV. God's sovereignty is no excuse for our sin (vv. 7-8)
(Romans 3:9-20) - That Every Mouth May be Stopped: Everyone is Under Sin
Main Point: In order to relish God's grace, it is imperative that we understand...
I. We are all slaves to sin (v. 9)
II. Our indictment is airtight (vv. 10-18)
a. We have sinful hearts (vv. 10-12)
b. We have sinful heads (vv. 13-14)
c. We have sinful hands (vv. 15-17)
d. We have a sinful heritage (v. 18)
III. We will be silent at our sentencing (v. 19)
IV. We will have no chance to appeal (v. 20)
(Romans 3:21-26) - The Christian Acropolis: The Cross as the Place Where Justice and Love Kiss
Main Point: The righteousness of God is revealed and upheld at the cross. Therefore, sinners are declared righteous by...
I. The promised way of salvation (vv. 21-22a)
II. The all-sufficient gift of sovereign grace (v. 22b-25a)
III. The One who resolves the great dilemma (vv. 25b-26)
(Romans 3:27-31) - The Swift Death of Human Boasting
Main Point: God's glory is central in salvation and is the source of our joy. Therefore, faith in Christ alone...
I. Magnifies grace (vv. 27-28)
II. Removes division (vv. 29-30)
III. Empowers obedience (v. 31)
"Nothing can damn a man but his own righteousness; nothing can save him but the righteousness of Christ." -- C. H. Spurgeon