6. The Explanation of Redemption: the 21 Epistles

The Epistles, or letters, explain, interpret and apply Christ's redemption. They are a rich source of doctrine, and the most like systematic theology of any books of the Bible. However, they are much more personal than most theological books. They are written by particular church leaders who are applying the truth of the gospel in specific contexts, so they are vivid and concrete rather than abstract and theoretical.
The Book of Romans is a prime example of how the Epistles explain our great redemption. It expounds the righteousness from God by grace through faith in Jesus Christ: "But now a righteousness from God, apart from the law, has been made known, to which the law and the Prophets testify. This righteousness from God comes through faith in Jesus Christ to all who believe" (Romans 3:21-22). The inspired text is masterful in its design:

1. Introduction and Theme 1:1-1:17
2. The Need for Righteousness 1:18 -3:20
3. The Imputed Righteousness: Justification 3:21-5:21
4. The Infused Righteousness: Sanctification 6-8
5. The Mystery of Israel 9-11
6. The Practice of Righteousness 12-16