Romans 3.1-8
Consulting with International Critical Commentary under C.E.B. Cranfield (Edinburgh: T. & T. Clark, 1977). We are comparing this with Sandlay and Headlam’s ICC of 1908.
Observations:
1. Paul is denying the name of “Jew” to those who are “outward Jews” but “not inwardly circumcised Jews.” (Romans 2.28, 29)
2. Is he denying that the Abrahamic promises do not apply to non-Christian Jews? Yes. Thanks to a request for clarification from one of our readers, Peter Otajian, we add this, using his words: "In other words, Paul is asserting that the Abrahamic promises do not apply to non-Christian Jews, who rejected their Messiah. It only applies to Christian Jews, who have received the circumcision of the heart through the work wrought in their hearts by the power of the Holy Spirit." Thanks Peter, well put.
3. Is the Abrahamic covenant still in force? Yes.
4. Do the promises of Abraham apply to Christians, Jew or Gentile, in the new administration of the covenant? Yes.
5. Paul takes over the “term” Jew and gives it new meaning.
2 comments:
Philip,
Re: Observation(2)I think you have to re-word it.
Paul is asserting that the Abrahamic promises do not apply to non-Christian Jews, who rejected their Messiah. It only applies to Christian Jews, who have received the circumcision of the heart through the work wrought in their hearts by the power of the Holy Spirit.
I think we're saying the same thing, although your sentence is more clearly stated. Good re-phrase and, as always, thank you.
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