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How the Gospel Brings Us All the Way Home
The Apostle Paul’s letter to the Romans is widely regarded as his magnum opus. At the center of that book lies chapter 8, which Dr. Derek W.H. Thomas calls “the best chapter in the Bible,” for in the thirty-nine verses of that single chapter of Scripture, Paul shows how the gospel brings believers all the way home. From “no condemnation” (v. 1) to “no separation” (v. 39), the chapter is an overview of the Christian life.
In these pages, Dr. Thomas leads his readers step by step through this remarkable chapter of Scripture, unfolding the waystations along the Christian journey and uncovering profound exhortations and reassurances for God’s people.
In these pages, Dr. Thomas leads his readers step by step through this remarkable chapter of Scripture, unfolding the waystations along the Christian journey and uncovering profound exhortations and reassurances for God’s people.
162 pages, Kindle Edition
First published April 1, 2011
100 people are currently reading
1027 people want to read
About the author
Derek W.H. Thomas
59 books65 followersOriginally from Wales, Dr. Derek Thomas is the John E. Richards Professor of Systematic and Practical Theology at Reformed Theological Seminary, Jackson, Mississippi. After pastoring for 17 years in Belfast, Northern Ireland, Dr Thomas returned to the USA in 1996 where, in addition to his work at the seminary, he serves as the Minister of Teaching at First Presbyterian Church in Jackson.
In addition to serving in the pastorate, Derek has served as editor of the Evangelical Presbyterian, a monthly denominational magazine. A 1978 graduate of RTS, he gained a Ph.D. from the University of Wales, Lampeter, in Calvin’s preaching on the book of Job. He has written numerous books, including The Storm Breaks: Job Simply Explained, Wisdom: the Key to Living God’s Way, and God Strengthens: Ezekiel Simply Explained, Making the Most of Your Devotional Life based on the Ascent Psalms, and Praying the Savior’s Way, based on the Lord’s Prayer. Recently he published Let’s Study Revelation (Banner of Truth), Let’s Study Galatians (Banner of Truth), and Calvin’s Teaching on Job: Proclaiming the Incomprehensible God (Christian Focus). He also co-edited, Give Praise To God: A Vision for Reforming Worship (P & R).
His interests include the music of Anton Bruckner, Richard Wagner and Gustav Mahler as well as a passion for good coffee.
He has been married to his wife, Rosemary, for almost 30 years. They have two adult children, Ellen and Owen.
In addition to serving in the pastorate, Derek has served as editor of the Evangelical Presbyterian, a monthly denominational magazine. A 1978 graduate of RTS, he gained a Ph.D. from the University of Wales, Lampeter, in Calvin’s preaching on the book of Job. He has written numerous books, including The Storm Breaks: Job Simply Explained, Wisdom: the Key to Living God’s Way, and God Strengthens: Ezekiel Simply Explained, Making the Most of Your Devotional Life based on the Ascent Psalms, and Praying the Savior’s Way, based on the Lord’s Prayer. Recently he published Let’s Study Revelation (Banner of Truth), Let’s Study Galatians (Banner of Truth), and Calvin’s Teaching on Job: Proclaiming the Incomprehensible God (Christian Focus). He also co-edited, Give Praise To God: A Vision for Reforming Worship (P & R).
His interests include the music of Anton Bruckner, Richard Wagner and Gustav Mahler as well as a passion for good coffee.
He has been married to his wife, Rosemary, for almost 30 years. They have two adult children, Ellen and Owen.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 70 reviews
May 31, 2017
This book is in an interesting category, because it originated as a sermon series on Romans 8. The flow from one idea to another is good, but not seamless in the same way many books are. This book has some really good truths in it. I appreciate how Derek Thomas spent so much time elaborating on what he believes to be the best chapter in all of the Bible. From "no condemnation" to "no separation" is something all Christians need to hear. Buy this book. Use it for devotionals. It'll be worth it.
May 14, 2022
Dr Thomas has done a terrific job of pulling together in context the main truths of Romans 8. This book is a most rewarding read. I am blessed and encouraged from having read it.
August 3, 2015
I recently read Derek Thomas's How the Gospel Brings Us All the Way Home (2011), a purchase I made through Ligonier Ministries $5 Fridays. If you have not availed yourself of their continually great offerings, you should. I have many wonderful books in my library because of $5 Fridays.
Thomas's book is essentially an exposition of Romans 8. More precisely, it is a book about Romans 8 based upon a series of sermons that Thomas gave. Switching from the spoken word to the written carries with it certain challenges and, I think, this book has done that reasonably well.
Thomas builds upon the guilt-grace-gratitude chain that I had not previously heard, though interestingly, one of the next books I picked up, Transformed by the Gospel by Jerry Bridges also builds upon that notion. Thomas sets out to show how salvation for the Christian is truly an unmerited gift, dependent only upon the blood of Christ.
On page 12, he asks the question, "Can I still be in a right relationship with God (justified and adopted) and still sin as I do?" He seems to come down on the side of suggesting that we will continue to sin, but that we cannot be satisfied to stop there. He then moves on to address big topics like sanctification and mortification and prayer.
All in all, this is a good little book, certainly worth the $5 dollars I paid for it. It encourages me to go again to Romans 8 as one of the golden gems of Paul's writing.
Thomas's book is essentially an exposition of Romans 8. More precisely, it is a book about Romans 8 based upon a series of sermons that Thomas gave. Switching from the spoken word to the written carries with it certain challenges and, I think, this book has done that reasonably well.
Thomas builds upon the guilt-grace-gratitude chain that I had not previously heard, though interestingly, one of the next books I picked up, Transformed by the Gospel by Jerry Bridges also builds upon that notion. Thomas sets out to show how salvation for the Christian is truly an unmerited gift, dependent only upon the blood of Christ.
On page 12, he asks the question, "Can I still be in a right relationship with God (justified and adopted) and still sin as I do?" He seems to come down on the side of suggesting that we will continue to sin, but that we cannot be satisfied to stop there. He then moves on to address big topics like sanctification and mortification and prayer.
All in all, this is a good little book, certainly worth the $5 dollars I paid for it. It encourages me to go again to Romans 8 as one of the golden gems of Paul's writing.
March 5, 2020
I listened to this on a difficult day, when I was physically alone, facing some significant trials with a vigorous temptation to dwell in fear and anxiety. I was fighting overwhelming emotion, and “what if’s” were competing for my mental attention. This book was a near perfect companion to me, sitting with me throughout the day, answering a lot of questions I was struggling with, speaking God’s truth into all of my fears and anxieties. This really helped me to keep my mind fixed on the “things that are above and not on things of the earth”. Highly recommend this one , especially if you find yourself grappling with struggles of any sort!
May 14, 2014
I started reading this book on April 23rd and looking forward to finish it. So far this is a great book to read especially about Romans 8. I do love Romans 8 too. Thankful for this! I am very thankful for this wonderful book to reminded me who I am before Christ and who I am with Christ. This book is very expository preaching by passage to passage. Excellent book to read. I do have this in e-book form and got it free. It would be better to get this book in book form format and not the e-book so that you can underline, highlight, and mark it up. I did read this along with my ESV Bible.
May 28, 2014
Excellent book! This is, essentially, an exposition on Romans 8. The main theme is that it is the Gospel by which we are saved, persevere, and finally go home to be with Jesus.
One aspect that stuck with me the most was in the section in which Paul talks about the current fallen-ness of creation and how it will one day be made right. Derek Thomas notes that "it is our calling to gaze deliberately and see things as they will be rather than as they are."
One aspect that stuck with me the most was in the section in which Paul talks about the current fallen-ness of creation and how it will one day be made right. Derek Thomas notes that "it is our calling to gaze deliberately and see things as they will be rather than as they are."
June 20, 2021
Wonderful little book on the gospel realities of Romans 8, which begins with “no condemnation” and ends with “no separation.” Thomas does a marvelous job of relating huge truths and unbelievable good news to our every day lives and how truth ought to impact our walk.
June 12, 2021
There is arguably no greater chapter in Scripture than Romans 8. Derek Thomas walks slowly through this crucial chapter to show the security of our salvation in Christ, carrying us from the time of our conversion to our final day on earth when we will be brought all the way home. Thomas has a brilliant way of taking deep scholastic theology and making it clear to anyone who reads his work. Highly recommended! (Particularly recommend the audiobook, read by the author in his full Scottish accent)
June 29, 2023
A 144-page brief exposition of Romans 8. This is an easy-to-read, clear, biblically-saturated walk through what is perhaps the most referenced chapter in the Bible. This is Gospel 101 and very helpful as a primer of the grace of God in the Gospel of Christ.
July 16, 2021
A great commentary on Romans 8 that helpfully reminded me of all the assurance I have in Christ for forgiveness of all my sins all the time.
May 31, 2024
This book is a deep dive in Romans 8 that my church small group and I have been going through. Somewhat difficult to understand but excellent content, and great food for thought
Final rating: 3.5/5
Final rating: 3.5/5
May 14, 2012
It has been well said that the book of Romans is “the Gospel according to Paul,” because of his comprehensive overview of the story of man’s redemption from the fall to glory. More so than any other chapter in Scripture, Romans 8, the center of Paul’s letter, distills the grand narrative and powerful truths of the Gospel into a few verses packed with meaning. For this reason, many (possibly) most hold one or more of its passages as their favorite verses. Also for this reason, it ranks as one of few chapters in Scripture that can support a commentary on its own, independent of the book as a whole.
It is with that in mind that Derek Thomas offers theological meditations on Romans 8 in The Gospel Brings Us All the Way Home. Over eleven chapters Thomas expounds on our great and living hope: the work of Christ in Salvation, our adoption and protection by God, the intercession of Christ and the Spirit, and the response of believers through mortification of sin, submission, and prayer.
Though Thomas’ scholarship and depth of reasoning are clearly evident here, this book is not a commentary “for commentary sake.” It beats with a pastor’s heart for understanding and application (it was even born out of a series of sermons), reading not as an academic study, but as an impassioned appeal for Christians to soak in the truth of the Gospel that it is by God’s grace that His Son was given for our sins and that His Spirit lives within us to bind us to Him. Because of this style, the book would be an excellent choice for a personal, family, or small group study.
Thomas is quick to remind us that this Gospel spelled out so beautifully by Paul in this chapter is the heartbeat of our faith, and that we can never devote too much time and energy to telling and retelling its mysteries to God’s great glory. Indeed the cross of Christ is the center point of all God’s creation and character, as Paul writes, “He who did not spare His own Son, but delivered Him over for us all, how will He not also with Him freely give us all things?” (Rom. 8:32). How could we spend our energies on anything less?
It is with that in mind that Derek Thomas offers theological meditations on Romans 8 in The Gospel Brings Us All the Way Home. Over eleven chapters Thomas expounds on our great and living hope: the work of Christ in Salvation, our adoption and protection by God, the intercession of Christ and the Spirit, and the response of believers through mortification of sin, submission, and prayer.
Though Thomas’ scholarship and depth of reasoning are clearly evident here, this book is not a commentary “for commentary sake.” It beats with a pastor’s heart for understanding and application (it was even born out of a series of sermons), reading not as an academic study, but as an impassioned appeal for Christians to soak in the truth of the Gospel that it is by God’s grace that His Son was given for our sins and that His Spirit lives within us to bind us to Him. Because of this style, the book would be an excellent choice for a personal, family, or small group study.
Thomas is quick to remind us that this Gospel spelled out so beautifully by Paul in this chapter is the heartbeat of our faith, and that we can never devote too much time and energy to telling and retelling its mysteries to God’s great glory. Indeed the cross of Christ is the center point of all God’s creation and character, as Paul writes, “He who did not spare His own Son, but delivered Him over for us all, how will He not also with Him freely give us all things?” (Rom. 8:32). How could we spend our energies on anything less?
July 4, 2017
“Nondum considerasti, quanti ponderis sit peccatum!” wrote Anselm in his famous work on the incarnation, Cur Deus Homo. Translated, it means: “You have not considered how weighty sin is!”
Opera Trinitatis ad extra indivisa - the external operations of the Spirit cannot be separated from the other two person of the Trinity.
"Thy learn to live, as the Puritans encouraged their flocks long ago, to live sub specie aeternitatis (from the standpoint of eternity: that is, in two-worldly terms, with this world seen as a path of pilgrimage to the next one. Christians must learn to view the death-encompassed life of the now as but a stage we pass through life in its fullness dawn as after death" (37).""""
Gal 3:25 suggests a military style of synchronous marching. 58
"Quite simply, there is no pathway to glory apart from the one that leads through testing and suffering"(70).
"Look at you! You keep failing, and I've had enough" (121).
"'Where there's a will, there's a way,' and when the will in question is God's, the way is certain"(131).
"... tombs in cemetersis often bear The inscription mors janua vita - death is the gateway to life" (131).
"Vincit qui patitur [he who suffers conquers]. . . . . Suffering is to be expected insofar as the saying is true: the closer we are to the King, the more likely we are to become targets of the enemy" (134).
Death mentioned about 40 times.
Opera Trinitatis ad extra indivisa - the external operations of the Spirit cannot be separated from the other two person of the Trinity.
"Thy learn to live, as the Puritans encouraged their flocks long ago, to live sub specie aeternitatis (from the standpoint of eternity: that is, in two-worldly terms, with this world seen as a path of pilgrimage to the next one. Christians must learn to view the death-encompassed life of the now as but a stage we pass through life in its fullness dawn as after death" (37).""""
Gal 3:25 suggests a military style of synchronous marching. 58
"Quite simply, there is no pathway to glory apart from the one that leads through testing and suffering"(70).
"Look at you! You keep failing, and I've had enough" (121).
"'Where there's a will, there's a way,' and when the will in question is God's, the way is certain"(131).
"... tombs in cemetersis often bear The inscription mors janua vita - death is the gateway to life" (131).
"Vincit qui patitur [he who suffers conquers]. . . . . Suffering is to be expected insofar as the saying is true: the closer we are to the King, the more likely we are to become targets of the enemy" (134).
Death mentioned about 40 times.
July 22, 2014
What a convicting, encouraging read. Thomas takes the reader through Romans 8, so it should come as no surprise that the feel and order follows quite naturally the same trajectory upon which the Apostle Paul wrote long ago. The reader is bound to take a true, undeniable look at the nature of sin, both objectively and subjectively, all the while studying what it is that makes it so heinous to a holy God. After establishing these grounds, Thomas breaks the heart of the believer by showing him the price paid to redeem him from so iniquitous an existence.
Once compelled to bask in the nature of sin and the bounty provided to purchase redemption, Thomas reminds the disciple of the rich assurances that belong to the Christian, by virtue of Christ's sacrifice and the Spirit's eager, purifying work. Just as Romans 8 was never designed to end in the terrors of sin, neither is the Christian life: and this book drips with the sweet honey of God's vows to His people.
Christians, reading with a resolve to know the Father more deeply, cannot help but have the glories of The Lord applied to them by His charitable, Holy Spirit. And those who do not know The Lord yet are compelled to meet the beauties of the Gospel head-on.
Once compelled to bask in the nature of sin and the bounty provided to purchase redemption, Thomas reminds the disciple of the rich assurances that belong to the Christian, by virtue of Christ's sacrifice and the Spirit's eager, purifying work. Just as Romans 8 was never designed to end in the terrors of sin, neither is the Christian life: and this book drips with the sweet honey of God's vows to His people.
Christians, reading with a resolve to know the Father more deeply, cannot help but have the glories of The Lord applied to them by His charitable, Holy Spirit. And those who do not know The Lord yet are compelled to meet the beauties of the Gospel head-on.
March 16, 2016
A tremendous book, from start to finish. Dr. Thomas offers a superb treatment of his sermon series walking through Romans 8. He touches on so many aspects of Christianity, all of them crucial to the lives of believers. He is also fond of highlighting his themes with portions of hymns, some familiar and some not so much; as someone who loves the music of the church, I enjoyed this part of his presentation. I would recommend this book for any and every Christian reader; it isn't a difficult read, and his thoughts flow well from point to point. If I did have a criticism, it would be that the end notes were not linked in my Kindle edition, forcing me to have to go back and forth in my reading
January 11, 2015
An encouraging and sound work
Dr. Thomas's work here is of the highest caliber. He works hard throughout this book to exegete Scripture faithfully and pastorally. Like the great theologians of old who wrote both as scholars and pastors, this book will challenge, renew, and refresh the mind but also enliven the heart. Romans 8 is often held as one of the greatest chapters in Scripture, and I find this work to be among the greatest teachings on this chapter that I have been privileged to read.
Dr. Thomas's work here is of the highest caliber. He works hard throughout this book to exegete Scripture faithfully and pastorally. Like the great theologians of old who wrote both as scholars and pastors, this book will challenge, renew, and refresh the mind but also enliven the heart. Romans 8 is often held as one of the greatest chapters in Scripture, and I find this work to be among the greatest teachings on this chapter that I have been privileged to read.
July 4, 2017
I listened to this book while driving weekends for work as a Hospice Nurse. So many applicable reminders as I minister to patients and families-- believers, weary pilgrims who need to be reminded of the truths of Romans 8. Dr. Thomas brings clarity to the foundation of what we believe. His communicating the gospel of grace through our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ in this book encourages me to continue to look for opportunities to speak this truth to those who need this comfort. Loved this book, a hearty endorsement!
December 30, 2013
Working through Romans 8, Thomas presents this series of sermons about the persevering power of the Gospel. As is typical when spoken messages are converted to the printed page there tends to be repetition, though not overwhelmingly so (likely due to astute editing). Thomas unpacks amazing truths and makes them wonderfully applicable to the ongoing struggles and trials of Christ’s followers. Underneath all the exhortations is God’s promise to bring His people all the way home.
March 22, 2014
March 2014 - Every so often I "stumble upon" a book that is much more than I thought it would be. This compilation of a sermon series on Romans 8 is one of them. Thomas writes with pastoral care and great joy, pointing His readers to great glories of the Gospel. Walking slowly through the chapter, the book puts the sweet story of salvation and the great love of God for His redeemed people on display. I quite glad I actually own a copy of this book, as I imagine I'll return to it many times.
April 24, 2014
Is there a place of comfort for the Christian greater than Romans 8? It is full of grace and the defining truth our our assurance, empowerment and privilege in Christ. Thomas does a fine job or conveying the truths of Romans 8 into our lives and giving us a new sense of "home" as the destination we are assured of and promised in Jesus through the Spirit. That we might heed his words and live in this hope.
December 24, 2014
If you're looking for a heavy theological book on Romans 8 with lots of fresh new insights, this probably isn't the book for you. On the other hand, if you're looking at a more pastoral look at Romans 8, with reminders of great spiritual truths that we all too easily forget, this may just be the book for you. My perspective was once again focused on Christ through this book, and my soul edified by Thomas' meditations on this powerful chapter.
Rating: 3.5-4 Stars. (Good)
Rating: 3.5-4 Stars. (Good)
February 18, 2017
First, Piper asks his readers this very fundamental question:-
Have you been born again?
Then he scrutinizes 1 John and 1 Peter to answer a few other questions that stem out from the most accurate definition of being born again.
What is the new birth?
Why must we be born again?
How does the new birth come about?
What are the effects of the new birth?
How can we help others become born again?
Have you been born again?
Then he scrutinizes 1 John and 1 Peter to answer a few other questions that stem out from the most accurate definition of being born again.
What is the new birth?
Why must we be born again?
How does the new birth come about?
What are the effects of the new birth?
How can we help others become born again?
November 12, 2017
I started reading this book a while ago, then put it down for some reason. This week, I picked it up again. Whether it was that timing or whatever, I found myself really interested. The book is a commentary of sorts on Romans chapter 8--it started life as a sermon series on the chapter. It gave me a lot of meat to chew on, and while I didn't agree with all the particulars, the intellectual exercise was very enjoyable.
April 14, 2014
Pastor Thomas takes Romans Chapter 8 from a sermon series that he preached and writes a book based on those sermons. I was convicted many times in this book, so much so, that I wish I could have heard the series being preached. He is not afraid to confront nominal Christianity and discusses what the Christian life is all about.
December 18, 2015
I read this book in one week a few years ago at a church camp. It was a fantastic exposition of Romans 8, one of the most rich chapters in the entire Bible. Derek Thomas's approach of asserting that Romans 8 "brings the gospel all the way home" was profound. This book left me marveling at how complete the gospel is at satisfying a sinner's soul.
September 14, 2016
Great read - easy to understand yet not light on the theology. Based solely on Romans 8, this is a terrific "presentation" of the gospel and what it means to be a true believer and follower of Christ. Pretty amazing how much theology is packed into one chapter of the Bible - let alone all of Romans.
June 23, 2017
A pastoral exposition of Romans 8, solid and fruitful, particularly from. an Evangelical standpoint. The focus on the love and grace of God, and the Spirit's power, can encourage many in their walk and understanding of salvation and eternal security. As would be expected from a Presbyterian, unfortunately, no application to the Supper or baptism.
May 27, 2012
A great book for devotional reading. Definitely one to recommend to folks in the church including those who find reading difficult. Also useful for homiletical insights, illustrations and application.
March 14, 2014
Very good exposition on Romans chapter 8. There were a few points where I might take exception with some things he said (I won't mention what to keep from tainting anyone else's read), but nothing that would keep me from recommending this book.
February 22, 2016
My review here: http://wp.me/pttRS-17J
Displaying 1 - 30 of 70 reviews