Lecture on NT Wright's New Book: "Into the Heart of Romans"

Introduction

• Guest: NT Wright (Tom)
  • Position: Research fellow at Wycliffe College, Oxford
  • Former professor at University of St Andrews
• Book discussed: "Into the Heart of Romans"

Overview of NT Wright's Work and Influence

• NT Wright's background
  • Churchgoing family, introduction to the Bible at a young age
  • Influenced by scripture Union talks in school
  • Studied Classics at Oxford, tying it to New Testament context
  • Shifted focus to combining ministry and Biblical scholarship

Theological Education: Past and Present

• Observations on changes in theological education
  • Growing confusion about academic theology
  • Concerns over the division between Biblical Studies and Theology
  • Notable scholars: Richard Hayes, Mike Gorman, George Van Koten
• Challenges and hopes for the future
  • Encouragement to approach Biblical Studies as exciting and transformative

Romans 8: Key Themes

• Romans 8 as a focal point
  • Shift from previous commentary on Romans
  • Emphasis on temple theology and role of the spirit

Assurance and Vocation

• Assurance not based on self-reflection but on Jesus and his assurance
• The role of prayer and lament in Christian vocation
• Romans 8:26-27 as central to Christian vocation

True Humanity

• Conformity to the image of Christ as the goal of salvation
• Participation in Christ's humanity as true humanity

Glory

• Glory in Romans linked to Isaiah 40 and Psalm 8
• Humans as image bearers and partners in God's creation

Challenges in Interpretation

• Critique of traditional "Romans Road" approach
• Emphasis on reading Romans in context of God's plan to dwell with humanity
• Challenges to modern theological assumptions, especially in Protestant traditions

The Role of the Spirit

• Spirit empowers believers to live according to God's law
• Moral rigor and transformation expected in the life of believers
• Assurance tied to God's presence and support through the Spirit

NT Wright's Reflections

• Assurance comes from knowing Jesus, not introspection
• Encourages looking at the Gospels to understand Jesus and assurance

Conclusion

• NT Wright's insights provide a fresh and deep understanding of Romans 8
• Encouragement to explore the full richness of Christian theology and Biblical studies

Additional Information

• Book dedication to Peter Rogers
• Connection to the Center for Bible Study and its mission
• Encouragement for listeners to engage with deeper Biblical education

Final Thoughts

• NT Wright emphasizes how Romans 8 challenges and enriches our understanding of Christian life and theology
• Call to look beyond certainty to faithfulness and active engagement with God's plan