Description
Book SynopsisDebates rage over Paul's understanding of election in Romans 9-11. But is election really what Paul had in mind? Aaron Sherwood argues that this debate is foreign to Paul's purpose here. Paul primarily intended these passages to be a defense of God's covenantal faithfulness.
In
The Word of God Has Not Failed, Sherwood examines the first major passage of this section, Romans 9:6-20, giving special attention to the Old Testament Scriptures Paul used. It is vital to understand Paul's interpretation of these texts in order to understand the thrust of Paul's message. Sherwood shows how Paul viewed the rejection of the gospel by unbelieving Jews as idolatry, and the inclusion of believing Gentiles as a fulfillment of God's promises to Israel.
Trade ReviewIn this careful analysis of an important and controversial text, Aaron Sherwood displays a fine sensitivity to the contours both of Paul's text and of the Scriptures he cites. The argument is clear and coherent, and adds significantly to the ongoing exegetical debate. Pauline scholars and students of Romans will want to engage with this fresh contribution.
--
John M. G. Barclay, Lightfoot Professor of Divinity, Durham University
