Latest Commentaries

Paul is pointing out that no one can obey the law perfectly; the law gives us knowledge of sin and makes us accountable to God.

Those who pursue sin and wickedness do not fear God.

The peace that comes from following God’s way is not known by those who pursue sin.

Paul continues pointing out the sinfulness of mankind by quoting from the Old Testament.

Paul further makes his point that all are under sin by quoting the Old Testament, reiterating that we are all sinners and cannot do good apart from God.

Paul is making the points that all men are sinners and therefore no one man better than another.

The competing Jewish “authorities” continue their argument opposing Paul, which Paul calls slander. Paul says that their condemnation (judgment) from God is just for making an untrue assertion.

Similarly, the competing Jewish “authorities” argue: “If my untruth reveals God’s truth, how can God judge that as sin?”

Paul is presenting an argument made by the Jewish “authorities” that if our sin demonstrates the grace of God then it is not fair for God to judge us. Paul clarifies that this is a human argument that is false; God is God and He is the judge of the world.

Just because someone is not faithful to God does not mean that God is not still faithful.

Even though God has chosen Israel, He still allows freedom of choice. Israel, and all men, are free to choose whether to believe. So if some did not choose to believe God’s word, it is because they decided not to. God, however, is always faithful, notwithstanding.

The Jewish people still hold a special place with God.

If God cares about faith and not works or heritage, what advantage do the Jewish people have? And if God cares about the heart of the individual and not merely outward actions, what benefit is circumcision?

Just because someone appears to be following God outwardly, through physical circumcision and other outward actions, that does not mean that he or she is following God and pursuing righteous living. True righteousness occurs from the inside out.

Just and righteous living comes through living by faith. The Jewish people, who break the law and are circumcised, are the same as those who are uncircumcised. Circumcision is of no value if you do not keep the law.

The hypocrisy of those who teach the law, but do not follow it themselves, not only dishonors God, but it also harms the witness of God and His word. The competing Jewish “authorities” who assert that the Roman believers should be following the law are, in truth, sinful hypocrites who judge others for actions they themselves also do. Therefore they should not be listened to.

Paul is pointing out the hypocrisy of those who teach the law but do not obey it.

When people without knowledge of the scripture follow the teaching of scripture, it validates that God has written His law within the heart of man.

If someone depends on the law, they will be judged by the law. So, disobedience of the law (sin, which we all do) will bring us condemnation under the law.

As believers, we have the choice to follow God and pursue His will, thus storing rewards, glory, and honor for us in heaven. Or, we can do the opposite and incur tribulation and distress on our soul.