Romans 1-8

Concordia Commentary

by Michael Paul Middendorf

This commentary articulates the meaning of the Greek text of Romans in its original context for the benefit of the church and world today. Those without any knowledge of Greek will also profit from utilizing the volume. It provides insights that will enhance the understanding and effectiveness of scholars, pastors, and teachers who have the privilege of proclaiming Paul’s most famous letter. This commentary seeks to be theologically thorough in as few words as possible. Romans is the Spirit-breathed, living, and powerful Word of God. Its purpose is to bestow the righteous of God, which comes through faith alone, and to inculcate the life of faith in and through our Lord Jesus Christ.

848 pages, Paperback

First published April 1, 2013

Reviews

[Glenn Crouch · Rating 5 out of 5]

This series of commentaries continue to impress, and when doing a series of Bible Studies on Romans, I found this to be one of the core commentaries I used - and will be using the “sequel” as we continue our journey through Romans. No doubt, that I am a Lutheran pastor, I would find this Lutheran commentary of value - but I found the author quite generous in how he deals with alternate views and how he tackles scholarly issues.

This is a scholarly commentary with good coverage of the Greek text and detailed translation notes as well as good textual analysis. The “Commentary” section for each passage is very readable and provides not just background but well thought out theological explanations.

Highly recommended for Pastors (especially Lutheran ones) and those who are doing serious study of Romans.

[Bethany · Rating 3 out of 5]

I found this book helpful in some ways, but it was also frustrating because I would have liked to have more content with which to wrestle. Perhaps the introduction wasn't the best way for me to be introduced to the book, either, because (a) it starts with an "introduction to the introduction" and some musings on how long introductions should be, followed by 53 additional introductory pages. There were many good things in the book, but it was difficult for me, at least, to engage with much of the content.

[Sylvan Finger · Rating 4 out of 5]

I had a class with the author of this book. He discusses the major interpretations of the texts and explains why he chooses a particular interpretation to be the best. The repetitiveness of the explanations and how some of his arguments could become more developed. But over all, for someone that is interested in a scholarly understanding of the first part of Romans, the knowledge here will make you sound like a Romans guru.