Book Review: Irrevocable: Paul’s Radical Vision in Romans 9-11, and Why Christianity Can’t Handle It

“Discovering St. Paul’s Inclusiveness”

The church has always struggled with inclusiveness. “Who is in and who is out” has been one of the driving questions in Christianity throughout its history. It started with the discussion on whether or not Gentiles would be allowed to  enter the fledgling church, or would the church only be a Jewish sect. St Paul was adamant, in his writings, that the Gentiles were in. A few years later Christians were asking a different question. “Would the nation of Israel, once considered ‘God’s people’ ever be in, or had the church become ‘God’s people’ and Israel was permanently out?”

Paul seeks to answer this question in his letter to the Romans (chapters 9-11).  These chapters are the topic of the book, Irrevocable: Paul’s Radical Vision in Romans 9-11, and Why Christianity Can’t Handle It, by Max R. King (Presence International, 2019). King’s book is a thorough exegesis of the text. He sheds new light on the Paul’s argument that God has not deserted God’s beloved Israel. In doing so, King also provides his readers with a fresh perspective on how Christians are to relate to others in our ecumenical and inter faith conversations. This book has an important message for us to hear, understand and follow.

Worth the Challenge

Irrevocable is not an easy book to read. In my opinion, because of its in depth exegesis and theological language, it is a level 200 or 300 college religion text. Those who are willing to wrestle with the books contents, though, will find themselves appropriately rewarded. They will have a deeper understanding of the apostle Paul and his theology. Readers will also gain a broader understanding of Israel’s history and of God’s relationship with Israel—God’s Chosen People. King also brings Paul’s words forward and applies them to our lives today. He challenges readers to view “outsiders” in a new light.

I recommend this book. Readers probably won’t agree with everything that King writes. They will, though, be challenged to think and to wrestle with Paul’s words contained in Romans 9-11. The results of their efforts might surprise them.

I received this book free from the author and/or publisher through the Speakeasy blogging book review network. I was not required to write a positive review. The opinions I have expressed are my own. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255.