In Romans 3, Paul dives deep into the essence of faith and righteousness, reminding us that everyone, regardless of their background, is in need of grace. This chapter reveals timeless truths that resonate with our human experience.
The Reading: Romans 3
World English Bible1 Then what advantage does the Jew have? Or what is the profit of circumcision?
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2 Much in every way! Because first of all, they were entrusted with the revelations of God.
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3 For what if some were without faith? Will their lack of faith nullify the faithfulness of God?
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4 May it never be! Yes, let God be found true, but every man a liar. As it is written, “That you might be justified in your words, and might prevail when you come into judgment.”
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5 But if our unrighteousness commends the righteousness of God, what will we say? Is God unrighteous who inflicts wrath? I speak like men do.
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6 May it never be! For then how will God judge the world?
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7 For if the truth of God through my lie abounded to his glory, why am I also still judged as a sinner?
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8 Why not (as we are slanderously reported, and as some affirm that we say), “Let us do evil, that good may come?” Those who say so are justly condemned.
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9 What then? Are we better than they? No, in no way. For we previously warned both Jews and Greeks, that they are all under sin.
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10 As it is written, “There is no one righteous; no, not one.
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11 There is no one who understands. There is no one who seeks after God.
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12 They have all turned away. They have together become unprofitable. There is no one who does good, no, not so much as one.”
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13 “Their throat is an open tomb. With their tongues they have used deceit.” “The poison of vipers is under their lips”;
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14 “whose mouth is full of cursing and bitterness.”
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15 “Their feet are swift to shed blood.
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16 Destruction and misery are in their ways.
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17 The way of peace, they haven’t known.”
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18 “There is no fear of God before their eyes.”
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19 Now we know that whatever things the law says, it speaks to those who are under the law, that every mouth may be closed, and all the world may be brought under the judgment of God.
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20 Because by the works of the law, no flesh will be justified in his sight. For through the law comes the knowledge of sin.
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21 But now apart from the law, a righteousness of God has been revealed, being testified by the law and the prophets;
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22 even the righteousness of God through faith in Jesus Christ to all and on all those who believe. For there is no distinction,
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23 for all have sinned, and fall short of the glory of God;
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24 being justified freely by his grace through the redemption that is in Christ Jesus;
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25 whom God sent to be an atoning sacrifice, through faith in his blood, for a demonstration of his righteousness through the passing over of prior sins, in God’s forbearance;
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26 to demonstrate his righteousness at this present time; that he might himself be just, and the justifier of him who has faith in Jesus.
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27 Where then is the boasting? It is excluded. By what kind of law? Of works? No, but by a law of faith.
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28 We maintain therefore that a man is justified by faith apart from the works of the law.
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29 Or is God the God of Jews only? Isn’t he the God of Gentiles also? Yes, of Gentiles also,
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30 since indeed there is one God who will justify the circumcised by faith, and the uncircumcised through faith.
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31 Do we then nullify the law through faith? May it never be! No, we establish the law.
What This Chapter Is Really Saying
What's the Advantage?
Paul begins by asking if there's any advantage to being Jewish or having the law. He quickly answers that there's much benefit, primarily because the Jews were entrusted with God's revelations. But then he poses a tough question: if some lose faith, does that mean God is unfaithful? Absolutely not! God's truth remains intact, regardless of human unfaithfulness.
The Human Condition
He continues, emphasizing that everyone is under sin - no one is righteous or seeks God on their own. Paul uses vivid imagery to describe humanity as deceitful and filled with cursing and bitterness. It's a grim picture, showing that all of us fall short of God's standards.
The Role of the Law
Paul explains that the law has a purpose: it reveals our shortcomings. However, he introduces a game-changer - righteousness apart from the law has been revealed through faith in Jesus Christ. This righteousness is available to everyone who believes, breaking down barriers between Jews and Gentiles.
Justification by Faith
The highlight of this chapter is the concept of justification. Paul asserts that we are made right with God not by our works but through faith in Jesus. He emphasizes that this is a gift of grace, freely given. The law isn't made void; rather, faith establishes it by showing how we can fulfill its deeper purpose through love and trust in God.
Why It Matters
Shared Humanity
One of the key lessons from Romans 3 is recognizing our common humanity. We all struggle with sin, and acknowledging our need for grace can foster compassion for others. It's a unifying truth that invites us into a community of believers, where we can support each other.
The Power of Faith
Faith is central to our relationship with God. Paul's assertion that we are justified by faith, not by works, shifts the focus from performance to trust. This means we can rest assured in God's grace, knowing that it's not about earning approval but accepting the gift of righteousness that comes through faith in Christ.
Finding a Church Community
If this chapter resonates with you, consider exploring a local church where you can grow in faith and understanding. Sancta can help you find a church near you that embraces these principles and offers a space for spiritual growth and connection.
Coming Up Next: Romans 4
In the next part of our journey through Romans 4, we'll discover Abraham's example of faith and how it sets the stage for understanding righteousness. Don't miss this transformative exploration!