In this episode of Creating Space, Scott explores how the book of Romans can be read through the lens of spiritual formation and participation in the larger biblical narrative. Rather than approaching Romans merely as a theological system, a defense of justification by faith, or a roadmap for individual salvation, this episode presents Paul's letter as a pastoral and transformative call to become a Spirit-formed community shaped into the likeness of Jesus. Scott argues that Romans is fundamentally concerned with the formation of a rescued, restored, and resurrected people. Special attention is given to Romans 12:1-2 and the relationship between worship, repentance, the renewing of the mind, and life in the Spirit. The episode also traces the theme of transformation throughout the entire letter, showing how each chapter contributes to Paul's vision of a unified and cruciform community. Along the way, listeners are encouraged to read Romans within its first-century context while also allowing the text to function as a mirror through which the Spirit continues to shape the church today.
Resources:
Romans series at New Story Church - Scott Lackey
Reading Romans Backwards by Scot McKnight
Romans: A Theological and Pastoral Commentary by Michael Gorman
Romans: A Commentary by Beverly Roberts Gaventa