Encountering the Book of Romans by Douglas Moo - Literature review Example

?Topic: Book Review 2 Affiliation: Scholars and other general readers face difficult times trying to understand the most basic book and literary works that suit the purposes for their studies. In the case of theology, leaders and other interested parties are yet to identify items that capture their interests and curiosity regarding religion. Most bible scholars identify the major books they need to major on and proceed to get the necessary information on where to base their studies. Douglas Moo in the book, Encountering the Book of Romans, has simplified the work of most populace by addressing the book of Romans in the Bible. Throughout the history of religion in general, the book has had an interest to scholars and the foundation of the Roman Catholic faith is based on the name. Researchers, therefore, have little to do but need to get to the shops and obtain the one important link to the study and an in depth look as well as a proper analysis of the book of Romans as described. The book was published On December 2002 by the Baker publishing group and has had various sales whose range is close to four hundred thousand. The basics of the writings are clear, concise, and the message is to all parties seeking to know about the letter of Paul to the Romans. The book is not one to pass by on the counter especially the theological readers and scholars, and like most well written books, this one is a great self-discovery adventure. The cover page is well printed with an advance picture of a building which most people would view as an old fashioned empire church. The imprints are bold presumably to depict the importance of the contemporary writing and what is actually contained inside. The creation is set to encounter the bible studies especially with a great concentration on the book of Romans and the impact of the writings therein to a moderate reader. Douglas J. Moo is a PhD holder in the University of St. Andrews and has a wide knowledge on theological issues. He is a Blanchard Professor of New Testament at Wheaton College and also the author to various books and commentaries on biblical writings such as the books of Judges, 2 Peter, Jude and James. Based on his academic circle and knowledge, the lecturer has provide a book worth reading and one that leaves those who come across it fulfilled and having a quest for more. Over the years, many theorists have raised questions on just what intended and what he had in mind regarding how the book of Romans is to be read. Moo has simplified this and has given guidelines especially to scholars and students with regard to the ancient letter and provided the basis for contemporary debates. The theme of the book centres on the gospel of Christ Jesus and in writing the book, the author has a purpose to help create an identity to the Roman Christians and help them understand their history of salvation chain. The structure of the book is centred on the letter, and the author shows key aspects such as the introduction which shows a proper understanding of the book based on the first century (Moo, 2002, p.7). Other issues discussed include the prevailing events during the life of Paul and also the situations in the lives of the proceeding readers. In this context, the author bases his study on two approaches including the reformation and the new perspective approach which are grounds for interpretation of the letter. Scholars thus need to decide which approach to use and which best suits their learning needs as the two provide different ways of interpretation. The book is segmented, with each segment further split into well-defined topics for easy navigation and access of study material. The broad networking has made it even available for study and print in the world through website and shops. The contents of the book are well aligned with the contents of the prevailing chapters flowing from the preceding. Moo lays the groundwork for reading the ancient book and provides the arguments that the book argues. He highlights the basics themes and passages to time that the book presents as well as guides students through the relevance of the writings of Paul in daily life. He explains that the book has a general purpose in the life of Christians through the provision of practical advice so as to enhance the glory of God. Therefore, those who come across it, read it, practice it, understand it and live out it consequences come to glorify God in their activities. The author implores that when reading the book of Roman, readers need to understand and interpret it as the first readers would have after which they can begin to apply the words to their situations. He cites a case of the word ‘law’ and shows what Paul had in mind by saying that it was based on his Jewish background which was actually the Law of Moses (Moo, 2002, p.143). He relates this usage to the current society and how law is used to encompass state, federal biblical and laws of nature. Various citations in the books of Galatians 3:17, Romans 2:12-16 and Romans 5:13-14 explain the concept of law, its origin and the difference with gospel. Moo explain the situations that facilitated the writing of the book by Paul following the foundation of the church by Jews in Rome and the later expulsion of all the Jews from Rome by the Roman emperor Claudius (Acts18:2). The author identifies the book of Romans as a letter written at a particular time, place and to certain people. In the application then to daily life, it should be conceived as it would have been by those to whom it was addressed. The author describes that the book of Romans was written to show how a sinful human being can get into a right relationship with a just and righteous God. He bases his argument on the reformer Martin Luther who was a Roman Catholic monk who read the letter and interpreted it from that vantage point. Moo explains that Luther draws the importance of the book by clearly examining himself and discovering that he is a selfish, proud and rebellious fellow who has no idea how to close the gap between himself and God. Then he discovers that what he could not do, Christ has already accomplished through death and crucifix, thus providing a way for redemption and forgiveness for humans (Moo, 2002, p.213). The book is applicable to daily life, and the doctrines highlighted are in line with the Christian faith. My opinion is that it is a source of motivation to believers and even a foundation through which Christians base their belief. The death and resurrection of the Messiah is essential as shown throughout the book of Roman and I am in support of the issues provided by Moo. Reference Moo, D. (2002). Encountering the Book of Romans: A Theological Survey, Grand Rapids: Baker Academic. Read More