A Shorter Commentary on Romans by Karl Barth: With an Introductory Essay by Maico Michielin

by Maico M. Michielin

First published in 1959, Karl Barth's A Shorter Commentary on Romans originated as the manuscript for a course of extra-mural lectures held in Basle during the winter of 1940-41. During this time, Barth continued to resist the Nazi regime and its influence on the Reformed Church as he did when he was in Bonn. This reissue of Barth's A Shorter Commentary on Romans links to the renewed interest today in a 'theological' interpretation of Scripture. In response to the modern preoccupation with what lies behind the text (the author's context), and to a postmodern preoccupation with what lies in front of the text (the reader's context), both theologians and biblical scholars are asking the following questions: 'What is the relationship between the biblical text, interpreter and God?' 'Can the Bible be read both as an historical document and as a text that speaks to us today, and if so, how can it do so?' Barth's commentarial practice as exemplified in A Shorter Commentary on Romans answers these questions. This book is presented in two parts: first, an introduction by Maico Michielin helping readers understand Barth's theological exegetical approach to interpreting Scripture and showing readers how to let Scripture address theological and ethical concerns for today; the main body of the book then follows - the republication of the original English translation by D.H. van Daalen of Barth's A Shorter Commentary on Romans.

Genres: Theology

146 pages, Hardcover

First published January 1, 1933

Reviews

[Luke Merrick · Rating 4 out of 5]

This was my first exposure to Barth and I loved it. I especially enjoyed his exposition of Romans 9-11 and the implications of God's election and the salvation of Israel. I do wish he would be a little clearer on his soteriology; is it offered to all, or is it inevitable for all? But then again, perhaps he has decided to not be so bold as to claim a position on such matters. Or perhaps, as we read in the latter part of Romans, Barth considers most of christendom to be "the weaker brother" and will therefore not place a stumbling block before them.

Barth's explanation of the wrath of God was brilliant. He understands wrath through the lense of the cross where it is satisfied in death and is a means to new life. All humanity must die so that they can live, and Jesus offers us that life even before death.