“Romans is Paul’s masterpiece, a key that unlocks the door to vast treasures of scripture.” That is how Irving L. Jensen introduces us to the book of Romans. Our book reviewed this month is part of a series of self-study guides written by Jensen and published by Moody Bible Institute. What is paramount in a Jensen study is the structured, thorough, analytical approach to each lesson. Charts, outlines, and graphs compact the information, giving it quite a density in a mere 100 pages. If you’re looking for a casual read, look elsewhere. Jensen’s methods of confirmations, followed by tough review questions, are designed to induce long-term memory. Here is his methodology (paraphrased):
- Read through the book of Romans in one sitting to see highlights as repeated words, subjects as groups of material, and changes of subject.
- Observe verses referenced on the survey chart (page 16) and mark these segment divisions in your Bible.
- Scan though Romans segment by segment, recording a title for each segment.
- The next step is to group according to content, noting turning points in the text.
- Record your outlines on your own survey chart and compare it with the chart referenced in step one.
- Then do the review questions.
As you can tell from this intense study workout, once you are done, you will have a much greater grasp of the flow and content of the book of Romans, as well as key concepts, words and verses.
Editor’s Note: Those in Elim’s Tuesday morning Bible study who have delved into Romans have come away with a much greater grasp of the righteousness of God and the ungodliness of men. For the wrath of God is revealed from heaven against all ungodliness and unrighteousness of men, who by their unrighteousness suppress the truth. For what can be known about God is plain to them, because God has shown it to them. For his invisible attributes, namely, his eternal power and divine nature, have been clearly perceived, ever since the creation of the world, in the things that have been made. So they are without excuse (Romans 1:18-20).
Yes, an Irving Jensen study, such as this one on Romans, can be a mental workout, but the rewards are eternal. For while bodily training is of some value, godliness is of value in every way, as it holds promise for the present life and also for the life to come (1 Timothy 4:8).
Posted on June 1st, 2009 by Scott
Filed under: From the Church Library