Romans: The Gospel of God's Grace

by Alva J. McClain

McClain approaches Romans from a double perspective. The first perspective looks at the text using the lenses of justification, faith and life. The second perspectiveapproaches the text with Paul's statement, "I am not ashamed of the Gospel of Christ," (Rom. 1.16) in mind.This conservative look at the book of Romans is essential for anyone who preaches or teaches the Word of God.

Genres: Biblical Studies, Reference, Christian, New Testament, Theology

253 pages, Paperback

First published December 1, 1979

Reviews

[Sean Cavender · Rating 5 out of 5]

I enjoyed reading this series of essays. It doesn't plunge the depths of Paul's theology. It is a good general read and explanation of the book of Romans. I didn't agree with all of McClain's thoughts, but I did very much appreciate his homiletics and outlines of each chapter. Overall, I believe he gave a good explanation to a challenging New Testament book.

[Rafe · Rating 5 out of 5]

Well written and Biblical.

[Sagely · Rating 2 out of 5]

A 1973 essay collection/commentary from a fundamentalist seminary professor is NOT a source I'd usually look to when preaching Romans. But somewhere along the line I picked up this volume, and I believe strongly in listening to all voices.

While I can't endorse all (or even much) of McClain's approach to Romans, I did find his tone pleasantly refreshing and modest. At points, an illustration or turn of phrase would show up in a sermon. While a pre-critical view of justification holds centerstage throughout the text, McClain is sensitive to some elements of historical circumstance (e.g., the position of Jewish Christians in the Roman churches) in ways that complicate some of the excesses of over-simplicity.

If you have this volume, it won't hurt you to read it. It won't push you in new directions, but it won't push you the other direction either.

[Bob · Rating 4 out of 5]

Writing a brief, solid, & understandable commentary of the Book of Romans would be very difficult. Most who would attempt this would find a great deal of criticism concerning the various things they had left out, under emphasized or simply overlooked. However, Alva McClain has done all of us a great favor as his brief commentary cannot be criticized in this way. He breaks down & explains Romans in a comprehensive & clear way. It is easy to read & will give the reader terrific insight to Romans. Whether one is a novice or one who has read several commentaries, both will find this work beneficial. I highly recommend it.

[Lesa Livingston · Rating 4 out of 5]

Excellent book!!!

[Jason Drumm]

You should also read his small pamphlet "Law and Grace."