Evaluation
Overall Score: 9.3/10
A first-rate evangelical commentary on Romans, ideal for teaching and preaching with theological clarity and depth
Summary
At a Glance
- Length
- 1184 pages
- Type
- Exegetical (Technical), Expository (Mid-Level)
- Theo. Perspective
- Broadly Evangelical
- Overall score
- 9.3 / 10
- Strength
- Comprehensive scholarship, gospel-centered theology, pastoral and ministerial usefulness
- Limitation
- Its size and depth may be daunting for those seeking a lighter commentary
In The Letter to the Romans (2nd Edition) Douglas J. Moo offers a masterful, verse-by-verse exposition of Paul’s letter to the Romans. His revised edition renews the commentary with updated engagement with recent scholarship, improved clarity, and expanded discussions of key theological issues such as justification, the righteousness of God, the law and the gospel, and the relationship between Jews and Gentiles in the people of God. The volume remains rooted in the original Greek where relevant, yet speaks directly to the needs of pastors, students, and serious lay readers.
Why Should I Own This Commentary?
First, Moo’s commentary stands out for its careful exegetical work combined with theological seriousness. He does not treat Romans as an academic exercise alone; he brings out its gospel-centered truths with pastoral sensitivity and doctrinal clarity. For a preacher or Bible teacher, this means sermons or studies grounded in sound exegesis but richly connected to the message of salvation, holiness, and the life of the church.
Second, the 2018 revision brings the commentary fully up to date. Moo interacts with recent debates over Paul and Judaism including the so-called new perspectives and more recent voices. He expands excurses on “in Christ” language, on “righteousness of God,” and on issues of covenant and participation. That makes this edition more useful than many older commentaries, especially in a time when cultural and theological challenges press the church to understand Paul well while remaining faithful to Reformation convictions.
Closing Recommendation
We believe The Letter to the Romans by Douglas J. Moo (2nd Edition) belongs on the shelf of every pastor and Bible teacher who wants a trustworthy, doctrinally solid, pastorally sensitive guide to Romans. Its depth, clarity, and balance make it, in our view, a primary commentary on Romans for contemporary ministry and teaching.
Classification
- Level: Advanced
- Best For: Advanced students / scholars, Busy pastors, Pastors-in-training
- Priority: Top choice