Interpretation: Romans 6-8

In preparation for this assignment, be sure to read Chapter 5 in the textbook. In that chapter, Dr. Caleb Friedman notes how prevalent it is in popular Christian circles to see Romans 7:14-24 as Paul describing his and all of our never-ending struggle and defeat by sin. Perhaps surprisingly, he informs us that this is neither the way ancient Christians nor the vast majority of scholars today understand this passage. Rather, Romans 7 portrays someone who does not have the Spirit to set them free from the law of sin and death.

In this assignment, go through Romans 6-8 systematically noting what Paul says “used to be” in contrast to what is now. On your first time through, skip 7:14-24 so that you can get a good sense of the context. Take notes that you will organize and submit at the end of your study.

Now go back to Romans 7:14-24. Read it as Paul re-enacting the plight of someone who might want to keep the Law but who does not have the Spirit to be able to do so. Read it as a dramatic portrayal leading to a climax in 7:24 and then a resolution in the first part of 7:25. Then read 7:25b as a summary of the state of someone without the Spirit. Now re-read Romans 8 as the person who has the Spirit and has thus moved beyond Romans 7.

Now, write up your notes in an organized fashion. Does this reading ring true to the text for you? What are its strengths or weaknesses? Include your response to this interpretation in your submission. After you have edited your notes, upload them to the course. This assignment is worth 60 points.