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 6:1-5) - As Good as Dead: The Powerful Effects of Union with Christ
Main Point: By faith, we are united to Christ and are delivered from the domination of sin. Therefore . . .
I. Unregenerate People Abuse Grace (v. 1)
II. Regenerate People Cherish Grace (v. 2)
III. Baptism Illustrates the Power of Grace (vv. 3-5)
(Romans 6:6-10) - Living with a Dead Man: The Reality of Regeneration and the Comfort of Resurrection
Main Point: What has happened to Christ has happened to those who are united to him by faith. Therefore . . .
I. We have Died to Sin (v. 6a)
II. We are Dead to Sin (vv. 6b-7)
III. We are Alive with Christ (vv. 8-10)
(Romans 6:11-14) - Dying Daily: Coming to Grips with Our New Identity
Main Point: Christians should live as people who have been redeemed from the realm of sin and brought into the realm of grace. Therefore . . .
I. Relish what has been done by grace (v.11)
II. Resist sin by the power of grace (vv. 12-13)
III. Rest in the mighty promises of grace (vv. 14)
(Romans 6:15-19) - Slaves, One and All: Joyfully Obeying Our Loving Master
Main Point: A new relationship to God always brings a new relationship to sin. Therefore . . .
I. Grace Changes Our Allegiance (vv. 15-16)
II. Grace Changes Our Desires (vv. 17-18)
III. Grace Changes Our Practices (v. 19)
(Romans 6:20-23) - Choose Life: The Call to Grace-Empowered Holiness
Main Point: The contrast between life outside of Christ and life in Christ compels us to pursue righteousness. Therefore, we must examine . . .
I. Our Past Lives (vv. 20-21)
II. Our Present Lives (v. 22)
III. Our Future Lives (v. 23)