Discipleship
Southwestern Journal of Theology
Volume 50, No. 2 - Spring 2008
Managing Editor: Malcolm B. Yarnell III
By Robert Jewett. Minneapolis: Fortress, 2006. 1140 + lxx pages. Hardcover, $90.00.
Robert Jewett is known for his longtime fascination with Pauline literature and theology, particularly as found in Romans. His work in the field is demonstrated by the depth and breadth of this commentary that covers things grammatical, syntactical, and theological while his pastoral heart is shown by his comments that are practical and applicable to the current world. The stated purpose of the commentary is to be as compre- hensive as possible while remaining readable (1), certainly a laudable if lofty goal.
Jewett believes that Paul’s main concern in writing Romans is to promote his mission to Spain, and in so doing to unite the disparate elements of a divided Roman church into a single body under the “shameful cross” of Christ (1). The introduction continues to outline Jewett’s method, bringing to bear all critical forms of evaluation including socio-rhetorical along with historical and cultural information. In terms of the structure of Romans itself, Jewett outlines a typical persuasive letter, though he differs in the details from others. Jewett lists the various parts: exordium(1:1–12), narratio(1:13–15), propositio(1:16–17), probatio(1:18–15:13), and perora- tio(15:14–16:24). He certainly simplifies the overall outline of the letter, which clarifies the flow of Romans.
Each section of the commentary is broken down such that information can be easily accessed. For example, 7:7–25 begins with a translation along with text critical notes (the notes are intentionally limited to changes that make a difference in sense). Jewett then gives a brief analysis of the section as a whole, noting what verses belong together and how the section coheres to the previous and coming portions of the text. He then explains the contentious issues of the passage (in this case determining who the “I” of 7–25 is), explains the various positions, both historic and current, along with the major proponents, and then explains and defends his own conclusion (“I” refers to Paul’s pre-conversion self as seen through his post-conversion eyes, building on the work of Lambrecht and Stowers). He follows this with a detailed outline of the section based upon rhetorical disposition. Finally, Jewett gives a verse by verse exegesis of the text, melding grammar, syntax, theology, and praxis into this portion.
Robert Jewett has crafted a magnificent commentary on Romans. In no way is this a revolutionary text or a major breakthrough for exegetes of Romans, rather it is a compendium of scholarship on the letter along with detailed, critical analysis offered with an eye toward application in today’s world. The only complaint one can offer is that Jewett assumes Paul can- not have a developed Trinitarian understanding of God, and thus neglects such passages as Romans 8:9–11. While Jewett’s offering is not a landmark in the understanding of Romans, it is one of the most complete works on Paul’s letter because it incorporates various disciplines into a coherent whole. This commentary is intended for scholars and pastors who have retained a deep understanding of Greek, and it should be on the shelf of all those who want to study this letter from Paul.
