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Write a 10–15-page theological, exegetical research paper on 1 of the following topics in Romans:

• Justification by Faith: Consider the theological concept of justification by faith as developed in the apostle Paul’s letter to the Romans. The paper should exegetically and systematically present the topic as it is developed in Romans. Include the following sections using appropriate subheadings according to Turabian:
  • Definition – how is the term justification defined by scholars? What is your own definition based on your research?
  • Basis – what is the act of being justified based or grounded on, that is, what is necessary to have happened or to be true in order for justification to be possible?
  • Means – How does one obtain justification? What is the means by which one is justified?
  • Time factors – Is justification an act or a process? Is it instantaneous or gradual?
  • Results/fruits – Once one has been justified, what benefits or results follow?
  • Assurance – How can one be assured of justification?

Only the words in bold (above) should appear as the subheadings. Be sure to thoroughly analyze what the apostle Paul teaches in his letter to the Romans about the subheadings and questions listed above. This paper must be based on theological and exegetical research.

Your paper must systematically present the topic of choice (from the list of Research Paper Topics) and exegete the salient passages from the book of Romans. In addition, your paper will be evaluated according to the following criteria:

1. Structure/Organization – The paper must be well-organized. Use subheadings to indicate major topics. Build your paper on topical paragraphs. Paragraphs must be coherent and lead to the overall cohesiveness of the paper, building upon one another and leading to a strong/persuasive conclusion. Format the paper according to the current edition of Kate Turabian’s Manual for Writers.
2. Content – The paper must meet the minimal criteria of 10–15 pages (see next section below). It must demonstrate serious and critical interaction with scholarly, research-oriented sources. It must clearly focus on the topic at hand and demonstrate an acute understanding of the topic as it is presented in the book of Romans. It must coherently present and discuss the topic at hand. It must demonstrate an awareness of the assumed reader/audience. It must maintain a consistent argument and line of reasoning throughout the paper. Each premise must be substantially supported.
3. Grammar/Mechanics – This includes sentence fluency; sentences must be coherent, unified, and varied. Be sure your sentences are complete and make use of excellent grammar. Also, vary sentence style so that the paragraphs are not wooden, stiff, and monotonous. Be aware of verb-noun agreement, tense agreement, etc. Be sure spelling, punctuation, and grammar are correct and consistent.