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 9:1-5) The Preacher of Sovereign Grace: Election, Evangelism, and the Pride of Unbelief
Main Point: Paul’s understanding of God’s sovereignty led him to a place of heartfelt concern for the unsaved. Paul was . . .
I. Earnest in his Evangelism (vv. 1-2)
II. Loving Toward His Kinsmen (v. 3)
III. Grieved Over Wasted Blessings (vv. 4-5)
(Romans 9:6-9) The Initiative of Sovereign Grace: The Futility of Trusting in Family Trees
Main Point: God’s promise of redemption has always been his gift of sovereign grace to his chosen people. God’s true Israel . . .
I. Is Not Based on Ethnicity (v. 6)
II. Is Not Based on Ancestry (v. 7)
III. Is Based on Promise (vv. 8-9)
(Romans 9:10-13) The Exaltation of Sovereign Grace: Salvation by Works and the Purpose of Election
Main Point: God’s people (true Israel) have always been defined by God’s choice, not their works. God’s choosing is done . . .
I. Eternally (vv. 10-11a)
II. Freely (vv. 11b-12)
III. Mercifully (v. 13)
(Romans 9:14-18) The Righteousness of Sovereign Grace: Bowing Before the God Who Shows Mercy
Main Point: God’s sovereign grace in election in no way undermines his righteous character because…
I. God is Not Obligated to Show Mercy (vv. 14-16)
II. God is Not Obligated to Share Glory (v. 17)
III. God is Not Obligated to Shackle Sinners (v. 18)
“The sovereignty of God may be defined as the exercise of his supremacy. Being infinitely elevated above the highest creature, He is the Most High, Lord of heaven and earth. Subject to none, influenced by none, absolutely independent; God does as He pleases, only as He pleases as he pleases.”
(A. W. Pink)