Don Costello: Romans 3

Romans 3:1

What advantage then hath the Jew? Or what profit is there of circumcision?

a. NLT: Then what’s the advantage of being a Jew? Is there any value in the ceremony of circumcision? [Scripture quotations marked (NLT) are taken from the Holy Bible, New Living Translation, copyright © 1996, 2004, 2007. Used by permission of Tyndale House Publishers Inc., Carol Stream, Illinois 60188. All rights reserved.]

b. Amplified Bible: Then what advantage remains to the Jew? [How is he favored?] Or what is the value or benefit of circumcision? [Amplified Bible, Classic Edition (AMPC) Copyright © 1954, 1958, 1962, 1964, 1965, 1987 by The Lockman Foundation]

1. “What advantage then hath the Jew?...”

a. [What] advantage [Strong: 4053. perissos per-is-sos' from 4012 (in the sense of beyond); superabundant (in quantity) or superior (in quality); by implication, excessive; adverbially (with 1537) violently; neuter (as noun) preeminence:--exceeding abundantly above, more abundantly, advantage, exceedingly, very highly, beyond measure, more, superfluous, vehement(-ly).]

b. [then hath the] Jew [Strong: 2453. Ioudaios ee-oo-dah'-yos from 2448 (in the sense of 2455 as a country); Judaean, i.e. belonging to Jehudah:--Jew(-ess), of Judaea.]

1). Paul is asking a very interesting question and his answer has I think profound implications for the future of the nation of Israel.

2. “…Or what profit is there of circumcision?

a. Or [Strong: 2228. e ay a primary particle of distinction between two connected terms; disjunctive, or; comparative, than:--and, but (either), (n-)either, except it be, (n-)or (else), rather, save, than, that, what, yea. Often used in connection with other particles.]

b. [what] profit [Strong: 5622. opheleia o-fel'-i-ah from a derivative of the base of 5624; usefulness, i.e. benefit:--advantage, profit.] [ Zodhiates: Increase, profit, advantage.]

c. [is there of] circumcision [Strong: 4061. peritome per-it-om-ay' from 4059; circumcision (the rite, the condition or the people, literally or figuratively):--X circumcised, circumcision.]

1). Romans 2:25 For circumcision verily profiteth, if thou keep the law: but if thou be a breaker of the law, thy circumcision is made uncircumcision.

a). If we trust in circumcision or keeping the law, Christ will profit us nothing.

b). Galatians 5:2 Behold, I Paul say unto you, that if ye be circumcised, Christ shall profit you nothing.

Romans 3:2

Much every way: chiefly, because that unto them were committed the oracles of God.

a. NLT: Yes, there are great benefits! First of all, the Jews were entrusted with the whole revelation of God. [Scripture quotations marked (NLT) are taken from the Holy Bible, New Living Translation, copyright © 1996, 2004, 2007. Used by permission of Tyndale House Publishers Inc., Carol Stream, Illinois 60188. All rights reserved.]

b. Amplified Bible Classic: Much in every way. To begin with, to the Jews were entrusted the oracles (the brief communications, the intentions, the utterances) of God. [Amplified Bible, Classic Edition (AMPC) Copyright © 1954, 1958, 1962, 1964, 1965, 1987 by The Lockman Foundation]

1. “Much every way…”

a. Much [Strong: 4183 polus, pol-oos'; including the forms from the alternate pollos; (singular) much (in any respect) or (plural) many; neuter (singular) as adverbial, largely; neuter (plural) as adverb or noun often, mostly, largely:--abundant, + altogether, common, + far (passed, spent), (+ be of a) great (age, deal, -ly, while), long, many, much, oft(-en (-times)), plenteous, sore, straitly.]

b. every [Strong: 3956. pas pas including all the forms of declension; apparently a primary word; all, any, every, the whole:--all (manner of, means), alway(-s), any (one), X daily, + ever, every (one, way), as many as, + no(-thing), X thoroughly, whatsoever, whole, whosoever.]

c. way [Strong: 5158 tropos, trop'-os; from the same as 5157; a turn, i.e. (by implication) mode or style (especially with preposition or relative prefix as adverb, like); figuratively, deportment or character:--(even) as, conversation, (+ like) manner, (+ by any) means, way.]

1). The Scripture goes on to say clearly the Jew is no better than the Gentile, that all are under sin and all need the Savior.

a). Romans 3:9-19 What then? are we better than they? No, in no wise: for we have before proved both Jews and Gentiles, that they are all under sin;

3:10 As it is written, There is none righteous, no, not one:

3:11 There is none that understandeth, there is none that seeketh after God.

3:12 They are all gone out of the way, they are together become unprofitable; there is none that doeth good, no, not one.

3:13 Their throat is an open sepulchre; with their tongues they have used deceit; the poison of asps is under their lips:

3:14 Whose mouth is full of cursing and bitterness:

3:15 Their feet are swift to shed blood:

3:16 Destruction and misery are in their ways:

3:17 And the way of peace have they not known:

3:18 There is no fear of God before their eyes.

3:19 Now we know that what things soever the law saith, it saith to them who are under the law: that every mouth may be stopped, and all the world may become guilty before God.

2). But it is also clear that the Jew has an advantage, whether you like it or not. Much advantage, much excellence, much preeminence, much increase and much profit, that is what the Jew has, mainly because unto the Jewish people through the Old Covenant the Scriptures were given. There are a number of Old Covenant promises and blessings that were given to the Jewish people that they are experiencing today and the world has been blessed by them because of it. For instance the world has been blessed by the Jewish people in fields of science and literature in amount of .Jewish Nobel Prize Winners: 165 Jewish Nobel Prize winners, since 1901. Folks that’s 24 % of the total amount of winners, no other ethnic group comes close; (2/2006 Edition of Jewish Magazine.) That my friend is a divine advantage, Glory to God! My figures up till 2018 are 194 Laureates (I may be wrong, Jewish sources get 203 Laureates)

a). Literature [11]: 1910, Paul Heyse; 1927, Henri Bergson; 1958, Boris Pasternak; 1966, Shmuel Yosef Agnon; 1966, Nelly Sachs; 1976, Saul Bellow; 1978, Isaac Bashevis Singer; 1981, Elias Canetti; 1987, Joseph Brodsky; 1991, Nadine Gordimer; 2002, Imre Kertesz; 2004, Elfriede Jelinek; 2005, Harold Pinter; 2014, Patrick Modiano; 2016, Bob Dylan; 2020 Louise Gluck

b). World Peace [9]: 1911, Alfred Fried; 1911, Tobias Asser; 1968, Rene Cassin; 1973, Henry Kissinger; 1978, Menachem Begin; 1986, Elie Wiesel; 1994, Shimon Peres; 1994, Yitzhak Rabin; 1995, Joseph Rotblat.

c). Chemistry [35]: 1905, Adolph Von Baeyer; 1906, Henri Moissan; 1910, Otto Wallach; 1915, Richard Willstaetter; 1918, Fritz Haber; 1943, George Charles de Hevesy; 1961, Melvin Calvin; 1962, Max Ferdinand Perutz; 1972, William Howard Stein; 1972, C.B. Anfinsen; 1977, Ilya Prigogine; 1979, Herbert Charles Brown; 1980, Paul Berg; 1980, Walter Gilbert; 1981, Ronald Hoffmann; 1982, Aaron Klug; 1985, Herbert A. Hauptman; 1985, Jerome Karle; 1986, Dudley R. Herschbach; 1988, Robert Huber; 1989, Sidney Altman; 1992, Rudolph Marcus; 1998, Walter Kohn; 2000, Alan J. Heeger; 2004, Irwin Rose; Avram Hershko; Aaron Ciechanover; 2006, Roger D. Kornberg; 2008, Martin Chalfie; 2009, Ada Yonath; Dan Shechtman; 2012, Robert Lefkowitz; 2013, Arieh Warshel, Michael Levitt, Martin Karpus;

d). Economics [22] 1970, Paul Anthony Samuelson; 1971, Simon Kuznets; 1972, Kenneth Joseph Arrow; 1973, Wassily Leontief; 1975, Leonid Kantorovich; 1976, Milton Friedman; 1978, Herbert A. Simon; 1980, Lawrence Robert Klein; 1985, Franco Modigliani; 1987, Robert M. Solow; 1990, Harry Markowitz; 1990, Merton Miller; 1992, Gary Becker; 1993, Rober Fogel; 1994, John Harsanyi; 1994, Reinhard Selten; 1997, Robert Merton; 1997, Myron Scholes; 2001, George Akerlof; 2001, Joseph Stiglitz, 2002, Daniel Kahneman; 2005, Robert (Israel) Aumann; 2007, Leonid Hurwicz, Eric Maskin, Roger Myerson; 2008, Paul Krugman; 2010, Peter Diamond; 2012, Alvin Roth; 2016, Oliver Hart; 2018, William Nordhaus; 2019 Michael Kremmer; 2020 Paul Milgrom

e). Medicine [59] 1908, Elie Metchnikoff; 1908, Paul Erlich; 1914, Robert Barany; 1922; Otto Meyerhof; 1930, Karl Landsteiner; 1931, Otto Warburg; 1936, Otto Loewi; 1944, Joseph Erlanger; 1944, Herbert Spencer Gasser; 1945, Ernst Boris Chain; 1946, Hermann Joseph Muller; 1950, Tadeus Reichstein; 1952, Selman Abraham Waksman; 1953, Hans Krebs; 1953, Fritz Albert Lipmann, 1958, Joshua Lederberg; 1959, Arthur Kornberg; 1964, Konrad Bloch; 1965, Francois Jacob, 1965, Andre Lwoff; 1967, George Wald, 1968, Marshall W. Nirenberg; 1969, Salvador Luria; 1970, Julius Axelrod; 1970, Sir Bernard Katz; 1972, Gerald Maurice Edelman; 1975, David Baltimore; 1975, Howard Martin Temin; 1976, Baruch S. Blumberg; 1977, Rosalyn Sussman Yalow; 1977, Andrew V. Schally; 1978, Daniel Nathans; 1980, Baruj Benacerraf; 1984, Cesar Milstein; 1985, Michael Stuart Brown, 1985, Joseph L. Goldstein; 1986, Stanley Cohen [& Rita Levi-Montalcini]; 1988, Gertrude Elion; 1989, Harold Varmus; 1991, Erwin Neher; 1991, Bert Sakmann; 1993, Richard J. Roberts; 1993, Phillip Sharp; 1994, Alfred Gilman; 1994, Martin Rodbell; 1995, Edward B. Lewis; 1997, Stanley B. Prusiner; 1998, Robert F. Furchgott; 2000, Eric R. Kandel; 2002, Sydney Brenner; 2002, Robert H. Horvitz; 2006, Andrew Fire; 2011 Ralph Steinman, Bruce Beutler; 2013, James Rothman, Randy Schekman; 2017, Michael Rosbash; 2020 Harvy J. Alter

f). Physics [45] 1907, Albert Abraham Michelson; 1908, Gabriel Lippmann; 1921, Albert Einstein; 1922, Niels Bohr; 1925, James Franck; 1925, Gustav Hertz, 1943, Gustav Stern, 1944, Isidor Issac Rabi, 1945, Wolfgang Pauli; 1952, Felix Bloch, 1954, Max Born; 1958, Igor Tamm; 1958, Il'ja Mikhailovich; 1958, Igor Yevgenyevich; 1959, Emilio Segre; 1960, Donald A. Glaser; 1961, Robert Hofstadter; 1962, Lev Davidovich Landau; 1963, Eugene P. Wigner; 1965, Richard Phillips Feynman; 1965, Julian Schwinger; 1967, Hans Albrecht Bethe; 1969, Murray Gell-Mann; 1971, Dennis Gabor; 1972, Leon N. Cooper; 1973, Brian David Josephson; 1975, Benjamin Mottleson; 1976, Burton Richter; 1978, Arno Allan Penzias; 1978, Peter L Kapitza; 1979, Stephen Weinberg; 1979, Sheldon Glashow; 1988, Leon Lederman, 1988, Melvin Schwartz; 1988, Jack Steinberger, 1990, Jerome Friedman; 1992, Georges Charpak; 1995, Martin Perl, 1995, Frederick Reines; 1996, David M. Lee; 1996, Douglas D. Osheroff; 1997, Claude Cohen-Tannoudji; 2000, Zhores I. Alferov; 2003, Vitaly Ginsburg; Alexei Abrikosov; 2004, David Gross, H. David Politzer, Frank Wilczek; 2005, Roy Jay Glauber, co-winner; 2011, Adam Riess, Saul Perlmutter; 2012, Serge Haroche; 2013, Francois Englert; 2016, J. Michael Kosterlitz; 2017, Rainer Weiss, Barry Barish; 2018 Arthur Ashkin; 2020 Roger Penrose; Andrea Ghez

2. “…chiefly, because that unto them were committed the oracles of God.”

a. chiefly [Strong: 4412 proton, pro'-ton; neuter of 4413 as adverb (with or without 3588); firstly (in time, place, order, or importance):--before, at the beginning, chiefly (at, at the) first (of all).]

b. [because unto them were] committed [Strong: 4100 pisteuo, pist-yoo-o; from 4102; to have faith (in, upon, or with respect to, a person or thing), i.e. credit; by implication, to entrust (especially one's spiritual well-being to Christ):--believe(-r), commit (to trust), put in trust with.] [Zodhiates: In Romans 3:2, to entrust, commit in trust to someone…to be entrusted with something, to have something committed to one’s trust or charge.]

c. [the] oracles [Strong: 3051 logion, log-ee-on; neuter of 3052; an utterance (of God):--oracle.] [Zodhiates: Sentence, declaration, especially the utterance of the gods,…”]

d. [of] God [Strong: 2316 theos theh'-os of uncertain affinity; a deity, especially (with 3588) the supreme Divinity; figuratively, a magistrate; by Hebraism, very:--X exceeding, God, god(-ly, -ward).]

1). The Jews were given the law, the covenants, the promises.

a). Romans 9:3-5 For I could wish that myself were accursed from Christ for my brethren, my kinsmen according to the flesh:

9:4 Who are Israelites; to whom pertaineth the adoption, and the glory, and the covenants, and the giving of the law, and the service of God, and the promises;

9:5 Whose are the fathers, and of whom as concerning the flesh Christ came, who is over all, God blessed for ever. Amen.

b). Psalm 147:19, 20 He sheweth his word unto Jacob, his statutes and his judgments unto Israel.

147:20 He hath not dealt so with any nation: and as for his judgments, they have not known them. Praise ye the LORD.

2). The Levites were to be the guardians of the Law:

a). Deuteronomy 31:24-26 And it came to pass, when Moses had made an end of writing the words of this law in a book, until they were finished,

31:25 That Moses commanded the Levites, which bare the ark of the covenant of the Lord, saying,

31:26 Take this book of the law, and put it in the side of the ark of the covenant of the Lord your God, that it may be there for a witness against thee.

3). They were probably also were responsible to make copies of the Scriptures just like the King.

a). Deuteronomy 17:18, 19 And it shall be, when he sitteth upon the throne of his kingdom, that he shall write him a copy of this law in a book out of that which is before the priests the Levites:

17:19 And it shall be with him, and he shall read therein all the days of his life: that he may learn to fear the Lord his God, to keep all the words of this law and these statutes, to do them:

4). God’s word promised the faithful Jew, that those who sought out the wisdom of His word would find wonderful discoveries. Surely the above lists of Nobel Prize winners fits into that category.

a). Proverbs 8:12 I wisdom dwell with prudence, and find out knowledge of witty inventions.

5). In light of all this the promises of God toward Israel, Jerusalem, and the Jew during the 1000 year reign of Christ and the perfect age are very powerful. Just this one passage is full of the favor of God toward Israel.

a). Isaiah 60:9-22 Surely the isles shall wait for me, and the ships of Tarshish first, to bring thy sons from far, their silver and their gold with them, unto the name of the Lord thy God, and to the Holy One of Israel, because he hath glorified thee.

60:10 And the sons of strangers shall build up thy walls, and their kings shall minister unto thee: for in my wrath I smote thee, but in my favour have I had mercy on thee.

60:11 Therefore thy gates shall be open continually; they shall not be shut day nor night; that men may bring unto thee the forces of the Gentiles, and that their kings may be brought.

60:12 For the nation and kingdom that will not serve thee shall perish; yea, those nations shall be utterly wasted.

60:13 The glory of Lebanon shall come unto thee, the fir tree, the pine tree, and the box together, to beautify the place of my sanctuary; and I will make the place of my feet glorious.

60:14 The sons also of them that afflicted thee shall come bending unto thee; and all they that despised thee shall bow themselves down at the soles of thy feet; and they shall call thee; The city of the Lord, The Zion of the Holy One of Israel.

60:15 Whereas thou has been forsaken and hated, so that no man went through thee, I will make thee an eternal excellency, a joy of many generations.

60:16 Thou shalt also suck the milk of the Gentiles, and shalt suck the breast of kings: and thou shalt know that I the Lord am thy Saviour and thy Redeemer, the mighty One of Jacob.

60:17 For brass I will bring gold, and for iron I will bring silver, and for wood brass, and for stones iron: I will also make thy officers peace, and thine exactors righteousness.

60:18 Violence shall no more be heard in thy land, wasting nor destruction within thy borders; but thou shalt call thy walls Salvation, and thy gates Praise.

60:19 The sun shall be no more thy light by day; neither for brightness shall the moon give light unto thee: but the Lord shall be unto thee an everlasting light, and thy God thy glory.

60:20 Thy sun shall no more go down; neither shall thy moon withdraw itself: for the Lord shall be thine everlasting light, and the days of thy mourning shall be ended.

60:21 Thy people also shall be all righteous: they shall inherit the land forever, the branch of my planting, the work of my hands, that I may be glorified.

60:22 A little one shall become a thousand, and a small one a strong nation: I the Lord will hasten it in his time.

6). Yes, the Jew will be the top ethnic group on the face of the earth after Christ comes back, and that will be for all of eternity. But don’t lose heart, you can be grafted into the Jewish nation, by getting born again, and accepting what was accomplished by Christ in his death and resurrection. The following passages establishes that particular Covenant truth.

a). Romans 2:28, 29 For he is not a Jew, which is one outwardly; neither is that circumcision, which is outward in the flesh:

2:29 But he is a Jew, which is one inwardly; and circumcision is that of the heart, in the spirit, and not in the letter; whose praise is not of men, but of God.

b). Romans 11:13-18 For I speak to you Gentiles, inasmuch as I am the apostle of the Gentiles, I magnify mine office:

11:14 If by any means I may provoke to emulation them which are my flesh, and might save some of them.

11:15 For if the casting away of them be the reconciling of the world, what shall the receiving of them be, but life from the dead?

11:16 For if the firstfruit be holy, the lump is also holy: and if the root be holy, so are the branches.

11:17 And if some of the branches be broken off, and thou, being a wild olive tree, wert grafted in among them, and with them partakest of the root and fatness of the olive tree;

11:18 Boast not against the branches. But if thou boast, thou bearest not the root, but the root thee.

c). Ephesians 2:11-19 Wherefore remember, that ye being in time past Gentiles in the flesh, who are called Uncircumcision by that which is called the Circumcision in the flesh made by hands;

2:12 That at that time ye were without Christ, being aliens from the commonwealth of Israel, and strangers from the covenants of promise, having no hope, and without God in the world:

2:13 But now in Christ Jesus ye who sometimes were far off are made nigh by the blood of Christ.

2:14 For he is our peace, who hath made both one, and hath broken down the middle wall of partition between us;

2:15 Having abolished in his flesh the enmity, even the law of commandments contained in ordinances; for to make in himself of twain one new man, so making peace;

2:16 And that he might reconcile both unto God in one body by the cross, having slain the enmity thereby:

2:17 And came and preached peace to you which were afar off, and to them that were nigh.

2:18 For through him we both have access by one Spirit unto the Father.

2:19 Now therefore ye are no more strangers and foreigners, but fellow citizens with the saints, and of the household of God;

Romans 3:3

For what if some did not believe? shall their unbelief make the faith of God without effect?

a. NLT: True, some of them were unfaithful; but just because they were unfaithful, does that mean God will be unfaithful? [Scripture quotations marked (NLT) are taken from the Holy Bible, New Living Translation, copyright © 1996, 2004, 2007. Used by permission of Tyndale House Publishers Inc., Carol Stream, Illinois 60188. All rights reserved.]

b. Amplified Bible Classic: What if some did not believe and were without faith? Does their lack of faith and their faithlessness nullify and make ineffective and void the faithfulness of God and His fidelity [to His Word]? [Amplified Bible, Classic Edition (AMPC) Copyright © 1954, 1958, 1962, 1964, 1965, 1987 by The Lockman Foundation]

1. “For what if some did not believe?...”

a. [For what if some] did not believe [Strong: 569 apisteo ap-is-teh'-o from 571; to be unbelieving, i.e. (transitively) disbelieve, or (by implication) disobey:--believe not.]

2. “…shall their unbelief make the faith of God without effect?”

a. [shall their] unbelief [Strong: 570 apaistia ap-is-tee'-ah from 571; faithlessness, i.e. (negatively) disbelief (lack of Christian faith), or (positively) unfaithfulness (disobedience):--unbelief.]

b.. [make the] faith [Strong: 4102 pistis pis'-tis from 3982; persuasion, i.e. credence; moral conviction (of religious truth, or the truthfulness of God or a religious teacher), especially reliance upon Christ for salvation; abstractly, constancy in such profession; by extension, the system of religious (Gospel) truth itself:--assurance, belief, believe, faith, fidelity.]

c. [of] God [Strong: 2316 theos theh'-os of uncertain affinity; a deity, especially (with 3588) the supreme Divinity; figuratively, a magistrate; by Hebraism, very:--X exceeding, God, god(-ly, -ward).]

d. without effect [Strong: 2673 katargeo kat-arg-eh'-o from 2596 and 691; to be (render) entirely idle (useless), literally or figuratively:--abolish, cease, cumber, deliver, destroy, do away, become (make) of no (none, without) effect, fail, loose, bring (come) to nought, put away (down), vanish away, make void.]

1). God is a God of faith.

a). Jesus said to have the faith of God: in the margin of Mark 11:22, it reads, “Have the faith of God,”

b). God created the universe by his word: Psalm 33:6 “By the word of the LORD were the heavens made; and all the host of them by the breath of his mouth.

c). Romans 4:17 “(As it is written, I have made thee a father of many nations,) before him whom he believed, even God, who quickeneth the dead, and calleth those things which be not as though they were.

2). Man’s unbelief will never stop or hinder the faithfulness of God to His word.

a). 2 Timothy 2:13 If we believe not, yet he abideth faithful: he cannot deny himself.

b). Numbers 23:19 God is not a man, that he should lie; neither the son of man, that he should repent: hath he said, and shall he not do it? or hath he spoken, and shall he not make it good?

c). Matthew 5:18 For verily I say unto you, Till heaven and earth pass, one jot or one tittle shall in no wise pass from the law, till all be fulfilled.

3). In the following passages we will see the faith of God in action.

a). Ephesians 2:5, 6 Even when we were dead in sins, hath quickened us together with Christ, (by grace ye are saved;)

2:6 And raised us up together, and made us sit together in heavenly places, in Christ Jesus:

b). Comparing the Scriptures Romans 4:17 and Ephesians 2:5, 6, God was quickening us and raising us when he was quickening and raising Jesus. God was calling “those things which be not as though they were.” That was faith!

Romans 3:4

God forbid: yea, let God be true, but every man a liar; as it is written, That thou mightest be justified in thy sayings, and mightest overcome when thou art judged.

a. NLT: Of course not! Even if everyone else is a liar, God is true. As the Scriptures say about him, “You will be proved right in what you say, and you will win your case in court.” [Scripture quotations marked (NLT) are taken from the Holy Bible, New Living Translation, copyright © 1996, 2004, 2007. Used by permission of Tyndale House Publishers Inc., Carol Stream, Illinois 60188. All rights reserved.]

b. Amplified Bible Classic: By no means! Let God be found true though every human being is false and a liar, as it is written, That You may be justified and shown to be upright in what You say, and prevail when You are judged [by sinful men]. [Amplified Bible, Classic Edition (AMPC) Copyright © 1954, 1958, 1962, 1964, 1965, 1987 by The Lockman Foundation]

1. “God forbid: yea, let God be true but every man a liar…”

a. God forbid [A compound Greek phrase made up of two words #3361 & 1096. The literal translation would be as the Worrell translation has it: “May it not be!] [3361 * me] [Strong: a primary particle of qualified negation (whereas 3756 expresses an absolute denial); (adverb) not, (conjunction) lest; also (as an interrogative implying a negative answer (whereas 3756 expects an affirmative one)) whether:--any but (that), X forbear, + God forbid, + lack, lest, neither, never, no (X wise in), none, nor, (can-)not, nothing, that not, un(-taken), without. Often used in compounds in substantially the same relations.] [1096 * ginomai] [Strong: a prolongation and middle voice form of a primary verb; to cause to be ("gen"-erate), i.e. (reflexively) to become (come into being), used with great latitude (literal, figurative, intensive, etc.):--arise, be assembled, be(-come, -fall, -have self), be brought (to pass), (be) come (to pass), continue, be divided, draw, be ended, fall, be finished, follow, be found, be fulfilled, + God forbid, grow, happen, have, be kept, be made, be married, be ordained to be, partake, pass, be performed, be published, require, seem, be showed, X soon as it was, sound, be taken, be turned, use, wax, will, would, be wrought.]

b. [yea let God be] true [Strong: 227 alethes al-ay-thace' from 1 (as a negative particle) and 2990; true (as not concealing):--true, truly, truth.] [Vine: Primarily unconcealed, manifest, hence, actual, true to fact.] [Zodhiates: true, real, conformed to the nature and reality of things.]

1). We are to consider God’s word as truth, because God does not and cannot lie.

a). Titus 1:2 In hope of eternal life, which God, that cannot lie, promised before the world began;

b). Hebrews 6:18 That by two immutable things, in which it was impossible for God to lie, we might have a strong consolation, who have fled for refuge to lay hold upon the hope set before us:

c). Numbers 23:19 God is not a man, that he should lie; neither the son of man, that he should repent: hath he said, and shall he not do it? or hath he spoken, and shall he not make it good?

2). This is the attitude every born again believer is to have concerning God’s word. We believe everything that He speaks on a matter to be true and right.

a). Psalm 119:127, 128 Therefore I love thy commandments above gold; yea, above fine gold.

119:128 Therefore I esteem all thy precepts concerning all things to be right; and I hate every false way.

c. [but] every [Strong: 3956 pas, pas; including all the forms of declension; apparently a primary word; all, any, every, the whole:--all (manner of, means), alway(-s), any (one), X daily, + ever, every (one, way), as many as, + no(-thing), X thoroughly, whatsoever, whole, whosoever.]

d. man [Strong: 444 Anthropos, anth'-ro-pos; from 435 and ops (the countenance; from 3700); man-faced, i.e. a human being:--certain, man.]

e. a liar [Strong: 5583 pseustes, psyoos-tace'; from 5574; a falsifier:--liar.]

1). We have to let God’s word be true for us and consider every man who says differently to be a liar, even if the individual claims to be a believer.

a). 1 John 5:10 He that believeth on the Son of God hath the witness in himself: he that believeth not God hath made him a liar; because he believeth not the record that God gave of his Son.

f. [as it is] written 1125. grapho graf'-o a primary verb; to "grave", especially to write; figuratively, to describe:--describe, write(-ing, -ten).]

2. “…That thou mightest be justified in thy sayings…”

a. [That thou mightest be] justified [Strong: 1344 dikaioo dik-ah-yo'-o; from 1342; to render (i.e. show or regard as) just or innocent:--free, justify(-ier), be righteous.]

b. [in thy]sayings [Strong: 3056 logos log'-os from 3004; something said (including the thought); by implication, a topic (subject of discourse), also reasoning (the mental faculty) or motive; by extension, a computation; specially, (with the article in John) the Divine Expression (i.e. Christ):--account, cause, communication, X concerning, doctrine, fame, X have to do, intent, matter, mouth, preaching, question, reason, + reckon, remove, say(-ing), shew, X speaker, speech, talk, thing, + none of these things move me, tidings, treatise, utterance, word, work.]

3. “…and mightest overcome when thou art judged.”

a. [and mightiest] overcome [Strong: 3528 nikao nik-ah'-o from 3529; to subdue (literally or figuratively):--conquer, overcome, prevail, get the victory.] [Vine: “a law term, to be victorious,…”]

b. [when thou art] judged [Strong: 2919 krino kree'-no properly, to distinguish, i.e. decide (mentally or judicially); by implication, to try, condemn, punish:--avenge, conclude, condemn, damn, decree, determine, esteem, judge, go to (sue at the) law, ordain, call in question, sentence to, think.] [Zodhiates: To separate, distinguish, discriminate between good and evil, select, choose out the good.]

1). When men judge God’s word, and they make a distinction against it, that it is not true. The Scripture says they have no light in them.

a). Isaiah 8:20 To the law and to the testimony: if they speak not according to this word, it is because there is no light in them.

2). As previously stated this is a Bible believer’s attitude toward God’s word, but it also includes our own thoughts. We are commanded to bring our thought life in line with God’s word also.

a). 2 Corinthians 10:4-6 (For the weapons of our warfare are not carnal, but mighty through God to the pulling down of strong holds;)

10:5 Casting down imaginations, and every high thing that exalteth itself against the knowledge of God, and bringing into captivity every thought to the obedience of Christ;

10:6 And having in a readiness to revenge all disobedience, when your obedience is fulfilled.

3). Strongholds are thought processes, imaginations that we allow to be higher in our lives than the word of God, i.e., we render obedience to them rather than the Scriptures. In 2 Corinthians 10:4-6 the Holy Ghost is saying we are to pull them down and destroy them. Force every thought that we think to be in obedience with God’s word. This includes cultural norms that are contrary to God’s word.

Romans 3:5

But if our unrighteousness commend the righteousness of God, what shall we say? Is God unrighteous who taketh vengeance? (I speak as a man).

a. NLT: “But,” some might say, “our sinfulness serves a good purpose, for it helps people see how righteous God is. Isn’t it unfair, then, for him to punish us?” (This is merely a human point of view.) [Scripture quotations marked (NLT) are taken from the Holy Bible, New Living Translation, copyright © 1996, 2004, 2007. Used by permission of Tyndale House Publishers Inc., Carol Stream, Illinois 60188. All rights reserved.]

b. Amplified Bible Classic: But if our unrighteousness thus establishes and exhibits the righteousness of God, what shall we say? That God is unjust and wrong to inflict His wrath upon us [Jews]? I speak in a [purely] human way. [Amplified Bible, Classic Edition (AMPC) Copyright © 1954, 1958, 1962, 1964, 1965, 1987 by The Lockman Foundation]

1. “But if our unrighteousness commend the righteousness of God, what shall we say…”

2. “…Is God unrighteous who taketh vengeance? (I speak as a man).”

Romans 3:6

God forbid: for then how shall God judge the world?

a. NLT: Of course not! If God were not entirely fair, how would he be qualified to judge the world? [Scripture quotations marked (NLT) are taken from the Holy Bible, New Living Translation, copyright © 1996, 2004, 2007. Used by permission of Tyndale House Publishers Inc., Carol Stream, Illinois 60188. All rights reserved.]

1. “God forbid: for then how shall God judge the world?”

Romans 3:7

For if the truth of God hath more abounded through my lie unto his glory; why yet am I also judged as a sinner?

a. NLT: “But,” someone might still argue, “how can God condemn me as a sinner if my dishonesty highlights his truthfulness and brings him more glory?” [Scripture quotations marked (NLT) are taken from the Holy Bible, New Living Translation, copyright © 1996, 2004, 2007. Used by permission of Tyndale House Publishers Inc., Carol Stream, Illinois 60188. All rights reserved.]

b. Amplified Bible Classic: But [you say] if through my falsehood God’s integrity is magnified and advertised and abounds to His glory, why am I still being judged as a sinner? [Amplified Bible, Classic Edition (AMPC) Copyright © 1954, 1958, 1962, 1964, 1965, 1987 by The Lockman Foundation]

1. “For if the truth of God hath more abounded through my lie unto his glory…”

2. “…why yet am I also judged as a sinner?”

Romans 3:8

And not rather, (as we be slanderously reported, and as some affirm that we say,) Let us do evil, that good may come? whose damnation is just.

a. NLT: And some people even slander us by claiming that we say, “The more we sin, the better it is!” Those who say such things deserve to be condemned. [Scripture quotations marked (NLT) are taken from the Holy Bible, New Living Translation, copyright © 1996, 2004, 2007. Used by permission of Tyndale House Publishers Inc., Carol Stream, Illinois 60188. All rights reserved.]

b. Amplified Bible Classic: And why should we not do evil that good may come?—as some slanderously charge us with teaching. Such [false teaching] is justly condemned by them. [Amplified Bible, Classic Edition (AMPC) Copyright © 1954, 1958, 1962, 1964, 1965, 1987 by The Lockman Foundation]

1. “And not rather, (as we be slanderously reported, and as some affirm that we say,)…”

2. “…Let us do evil, that good may come? whose damnation is just.”

Romans 3:9

What then? are we better than they? No, in no wise: for we have before proved both Jews and Gentiles, that they are all under sin;

a. NLT: Well then, should we conclude that we Jews are better than others? No, not at all, for we have already shown that all people, whether Jews or Gentiles, are under the power of sin. [Scripture quotations marked (NLT) are taken from the Holy Bible, New Living Translation, copyright © 1996, 2004, 2007. Used by permission of Tyndale House Publishers Inc., Carol Stream, Illinois 60188. All rights reserved.]

b. Amplified Bible Classic: Well then, are we [Jews] superior and better off than they? No, not at all. We have already charged that all men, both Jews and Greeks (Gentiles), are under sin [held down by and subject to its power and control]. [Amplified Bible, Classic Edition (AMPC) Copyright © 1954, 1958, 1962, 1964, 1965, 1987 by The Lockman Foundation]

1. “What then? are we better than they…”

a. [What then? are we] better [than they] [Strong: 4284 proechomai pro-ekh-om-ahee middle voice from 4253 and 2192; to hold oneself before others, i.e. (figuratively) to excel:--be better.]

2. “…No, in no wise: for we have before proved both Jews and Gentiles, that they are all under sin;”

a. No [Strong: 3756 ou oo, also (before a vowel) ouk ook, and (before an aspirate) ouch ookh a primary word; the absolute negative (compare 3361) adverb; no or not:--+ long, nay, neither, never, no (X man), none, (can-)not, + nothing, + special, un(-worthy), when, + without, + yet but.]

b. [in] no wise [Strong: 3843 pantos pan'-toce adverb from 3956; entirely; specially, at all events, (with negative, following) in no event:--by all means, altogether, at all, needs, no doubt, in (no) wise, surely.]

c. [for we have] before proved [Strong: 4256 proaitiaomai pro-ahee-tee-ah'-om-ahee from 4253 and a derivative of 156; to accuse already, i.e. previously charge:--prove before.]

d. [both] Jews [Strong: 2453 Ioudaios ee-oo-dah'-yos from 2448 (in the sense of 2455 as a country); Judaean, i.e. belonging to Jehudah:--Jew(-ess), of Judaea.]

e. [and] Gentiles [Strong: 1672 Hellen hel'-lane from 1671; a Hellen (Grecian) or inhabitant of Hellas; by extension a Greek-speaking person, especially a non-Jew:-- Gentile, Greek.]

f. [that they are] all [Strong: 3956 pas pas including all the forms of declension; apparently a primary word; all, any, every, the whole:--all (manner of, means), alway(-s), any (one), X daily, + ever, every (one, way), as many as, + no(-thing), X thoroughly, whatsoever, whole, whosoever.]

g. [under] sin [Strong: 266 hamartia ham-ar-tee'-ah from 264; a sin (properly abstract):--offence, sin(-ful).]

1). Every human being born on this planet is under the judgment of sin. Every human being who does not get born again, does not receive the righteousness of God which they get when they get born again, will go to hell when they die.

Romans 3:10

As it is written, There is none righteous, no, not one:

a. NLT: As the Scriptures say, “No one is righteous—not even one. Scripture quotations marked (NLT) are taken from the Holy Bible, New Living Translation, copyright © 1996, 2004, 2007. Used by permission of Tyndale House Publishers Inc., Carol Stream, Illinois 60188. All rights reserved.]

b. ASV: As it is written, There is none righteous, no, not one; [Thomas Nelson & Sons first published the American Standard Version in 1901. This translation of the Bible is in the public domain.]

1. “As it is written, There is none righteous, no, not one:”

a. [As it is] written [Strong: 1125 grapho graf'-o a primary verb; to "grave", especially to write; figuratively, to describe:--describe, write(-ing, -ten).]

b. [There is] none [Strong: 3756 ou oo, also (before a vowel) ouk ook, and (before an aspirate) ouch ookh a primary word; the absolute negative (compare 3361) adverb; no or not:--+ long, nay, neither, never, no (X man), none, (can-)not, + nothing, + special, un(-worthy), when, + without, + yet but.]

c. righteous [Strong: 1342 dikaios dik'-ah-yos from 1349; equitable (in character or act); by implication, innocent, holy (absolutely or relatively):--just, meet, right(-eous).]

d. no not [Strong: 3761 oude oo-deh' from 3756 and 1161; not however, i.e. neither, nor, not even:--neither (indeed), never, no (more, nor, not), nor (yet), (also, even, then) not (even, so much as), + nothing, so much as.]

e. one [Strong: 1520 heis hice (including the neuter (etc.) hen); a primary numeral; one:--a(-n, -ny, certain), + abundantly, man, one (another), only, other, some.]

1). The phrase “It is written shows that Paul is here is also speaking to Jews. Quoted from Psalm 14:1-3 and Psalm 53:1-3.

a). Psalm 14:1-3 The fool hath said in his heart, There is no God. They are corrupt, they have done abominable works, there is none that doeth good.

14:2 The Lord looked down from heaven upon the children of men, to see if there were any that did understand, and seek God.

14:3 They are all gone aside, they are all together become filthy: there is none that doeth good, no, not one.

b). Psalm 53:1-3 The fool hath said in his heart, There is no God. Corrupt are they, and have done abominable iniquity: there is none that doeth good.

53:2 God looked down from heaven upon the children of men, to see if there were any that did understand, that did seek God.

53:3 Every one of them is gone back: they are altogether become filthy; there is none that doeth good, no, not one.

Romans 3:11

There is none that understandeth, there is none that seeketh after God.

a. ASV: There is none that understandeth, There is none that seeketh after God; [Thomas Nelson & Sons first published the American Standard Version in 1901. This translation of the Bible is in the public domain.]

b. Amplified Bible Classic: No one understands [no one intelligently discerns or comprehends]; no one seeks out God. Amplified Bible, Classic Edition (AMPC) Copyright © 1954, 1958, 1962, 1964, 1965, 1987 by The Lockman Foundation]

1. “There is none that understandeth, there is none that seeketh after God.”

a. [There is] none [Strong: 3756 ou oo, also (before a vowel) ouk ook, and (before an aspirate) ouch ookh a primary word; the absolute negative (compare 3361) adverb; no or not:--+ long, nay, neither, never, no (X man), none, (can-)not, + nothing, + special, un(-worthy), when, + without, + yet but.]

b. [that] understandeth [Strong: 4920 suniemi soon-ee'-ay-mee from 4862 and hiemi (to send); to put together, i.e. (mentally) to comprehend; by implication, to act piously:-- consider, understand, be wise.]

c. [there is] none [Strong: 3756 ou oo, also (before a vowel) ouk ook, and (before an aspirate) ouch ookh a primary word; the absolute negative (compare 3361) adverb; no or not:--+ long, nay, neither, never, no (X man), none, (can-)not, + nothing, + special, un(-worthy), when, + without, + yet but.]

d. [that] seeketh after [Strong: 1567 ekzeteo ek-zay-teh'-o from 1537 and 2212; to search out, i.e. (figuratively)investigate, crave, demand, (by Hebraism) worship:--en- (re-)quire, seek after (carefully, diligently).]

e. God [Strong: 2316 theos theh'-os of uncertain affinity; a deity, especially (with 3588) the supreme Divinity; figuratively, a magistrate; by Hebraism, very:--X exceeding, God, god(-ly, -ward).]

1). Quoted from Psalms.

a). Psalm 14:1-3 The fool hath said in his heart, There is no God. They are corrupt, they have done abominable works, there is none that doeth good.

14:2 The Lord looked down from heaven upon the children of men, to see if there were any that did understand, and seek God.

14:3 They are all gone aside, they are all together become filthy: there is none that doeth good, no, not one.

b). Psalm 53:1-3 The fool hath said in his heart, There is no God. Corrupt are they, and have done abominable iniquity: there is none that doeth good.

53:2 God looked down from heaven upon the children of men, to see if there were any that did understand, that did seek God.

53:3 Every one of them is gone back: they are altogether become filthy; there is none that doeth good, no, not one.

Romans 3:12

They are all gone out of the way, they are together become unprofitable; there is none that doeth good, no, not one.

a. NLT: All have turned away; all have become useless. No one does good, not a single one. [Scripture quotations marked (NLT) are taken from the Holy Bible, New Living Translation, copyright © 1996, 2004, 2007. Used by permission of Tyndale House Publishers Inc., Carol Stream, Illinois 60188. All rights reserved.]

b. Amplified Bible Classic: All have turned aside; together they have gone wrong and have become unprofitable and worthless; no one does right, not even one! [Amplified Bible, Classic Edition (AMPC) Copyright © 1954, 1958, 1962, 1964, 1965, 1987 by The Lockman Foundation]

1. “They are all gone out of the way, they are together become unprofitable…”

a. [They are] all [Strong: 3956 pas pas including all the forms of declension; apparently a primary word; all, any, every, the whole:--all (manner of, means), alway(-s), any (one), X daily, + ever, every (one, way), as many as, + no(-thing), X thoroughly, whatsoever, whole, whosoever.]

b. gone out of the way [Strong: 1578 ekklino ek-klee'-no from 1537 and 2827; to deviate, i.e. (absolutely) to shun (literally or figuratively), or (relatively) to decline (from piety):--avoid, eschew, go out of the way.]

c. [they are together] become unprofitable [Strong: 889 achreioo akh-ri-o'-o from 888; to render useless, i.e. spoil:--become unprofitable.]

2. “…there is none that doeth good, no, not one.

a. [there is] none [Strong: 3756 ou oo, also (before a vowel) ouk ook, and (before an aspirate) ouch ookh a primary word; the absolute negative (compare 3361) adverb; no or not:--+ long, nay, neither, never, no (X man), none, (can-)not, + nothing, + special, un(-worthy), when, + without, + yet but.]

b. [that doeth] good [Strong: 5544 chrestotes khray-stot'-ace from 5543; usefulness, i.e. morally, excellence (in character or demeanor):--gentleness, good(-ness), kindness.]

c. no not [Strong: 3756 ou oo, also (before a vowel) ouk ook, and (before an aspirate) ouch ookh a primary word; the absolute negative (compare 3361) adverb; no or not:--+ long, nay, neither, never, no (X man), none, (can-)not, + nothing, + special, un(-worthy), when, + without, + yet but.]

d. one [Strong: 2076 esti es-tee' third person singular present indicative of 1510; he (she or it) is; also (with neuter plural) they are:--are, be(-long), call, X can(-not), come, consisteth, X dure for a while, + follow, X have, (that) is (to say), make, meaneth, X must needs, + profit, + remaineth, + wrestle.]

Romans 3:13

Their throat is an open sepulchre; with their tongues they have used deceit; the poison of asps is under their lips:

a. ASV: Their throat is an open sepulchre; With their tongues they have used deceit: The poison of asps is under their lips: [Thomas Nelson & Sons first published the American Standard Version in 1901. This translation of the Bible is in the public domain.]

b. Amplified Bible Classic: Their throat is a yawning grave; they use their tongues to deceive (to mislead and to deal treacherously). The venom of asps is beneath their lips. [Amplified Bible, Classic Edition (AMPC) Copyright © 1954, 1958, 1962, 1964, 1965, 1987 by The Lockman Foundation]

1. “Their throat is an open sepulchre; …”

a. [Their] throat [Strong: 2995 larugx lar'-oongks of uncertain derivation; the throat ("larynx"):--throat.]

b. [is an] open [Strong: 455 anoigo an-oy'-go from 303 and oigo (to open); to open up (literally or figuratively, in various applications):--open.]

c. sepulcher [Strong: 5028 taphos taf'-os masculine from 2290; a grave (the place of interment):--sepulchre, tomb.]

1). Paul’s description of mankind in general inspired by the Holy Ghost matches what Jesus said about unconverted religious leaders.

a). Matthew 23:27 Woe unto you, scribes and Pharisees, hypocrites! for ye are like unto whited sepulchres, which indeed appear beautiful outward, but are within full of dead men's bones, and of all uncleanness.

2. “…with their tongues they have used deceit…”

a. [with their] tongues [Strongs: 1100 glossa gloce-sah' of uncertain affinity; the tongue; by implication, a language (specially, one naturally unacquired):--tongue.]

b. [they have] used deceit [Strong: 1387 dolioo dol-ee-o'-o from 1386; to be guileful:--use deceit.]

3. “…the poison of asps is under their lips:”

a. [the poison of] asps [Strong: 785 aspis as-pece' of uncertain derivation; a buckler (or round shield); used of a serpent (as coiling itself), probably the "asp":--asp.]

b. [is under their] lips [Strong: 5491 cheilos khi'-los from a form of the same as 5490; a lip (as a pouring place); figuratively, a margin (of water):--lip, shore.]

1). Psalm 140:3 They have sharpened their tongues like a serpent; adder’s poison is under their lips.

2). Here the fallen nature of mankind (the law of sin and death, Romans 7:14-24), that entered into him at the fall in the garden is compared to the poison of asps. I believe this links the entering in of sin into man with the entering in of carnivorous natures into the animals.

Romans 3:14

Whose mouth is full of cursing and bitterness:

a. ASV: Whose mouth is full of cursing and bitterness: [Thomas Nelson & Sons first published the American Standard Version in 1901. This translation of the Bible is in the public domain.]

1. “Whose mouth is full of cursing and bitterness:”

a. [Whose] mouth [Strong: 4750 stoma stom'-a probably strengthened from a presumed derivative of the base of 5114; the mouth (as if a gash in the face); by implication, language (and its relations); figuratively, an opening (in the earth); specially, the front or edge (of a weapon):--edge, face, mouth.]

b. [is full of] cursing [Strong: 685 ara ar-ah' probably from 142; properly, prayer (as lifted to Heaven), i.e. (by implication) imprecation:--curse.]

1). Psalm 10:7 His mouth is full of cursing and deceit and fraud: under his tongue is mischief and vanity.

2). Psalm 109:17 As he loved cursing, so let it come unto him: as he delighted not in blessing, so let it be far from him.

109:18 As he clothed himself with cursing like as with his garment, so let it come into his bowels like water, and like oil into his bones.

c. [and] bitterness [Strong: 4088 pikria pik-ree'-ah from 4089; acridity (especially poison), literally or figuratively:--bitterness.]

Romans 3:15

Their feet are swift to shed blood:

a. NLT: “They rush to commit murder. [Scripture quotations marked (NLT) are taken from the Holy Bible, New Living Translation, copyright © 1996, 2004, 2007. Used by permission of Tyndale House Publishers Inc., Carol Stream, Illinois 60188. All rights reserved.]

1. “Their feet are swift to shed blood:”

a. Their feet [Strong: 4228 pous pooce a primary word; a "foot" (figuratively or literally):--foot(-stool).]

b. [are] swift [Strong: 3691 oxus oz-oos' probably akin to the base of 188 ("acid"); keen; by analogy, rapid:--sharp, swift.]

c. [to shed] blood [Strong: 129 haima hah'-ee-mah of uncertain derivation; blood, literally (of men or animals), figuratively (the juice of grapes) or specially (the atoning blood of Christ); by implication, bloodshed, also kindred:--blood.]

1). Applicable quote from Proverbs 1.

a). Proverbs 1:10-16 My son, if sinners entice thee, consent thou not.

1:11 If they say, Come with us, let us lay wait for blood, let us lurk privily for the innocent without cause:

1:12 Let us swallow them up alive as the grave; and whole, as those that go down into the pit:

1:13 We shall find all precious substance, we shall fill our houses with spoil:

1:14 Cast in thy lot among us; let us all have one purse:

1:15 My son, walk not thou in the way with them; refrain thy foot from their path:

1:16 For their feet run to evil, and make haste to shed blood.

2). Applicable quote from a secular music song:

a). Hells Bells [AC/DC] I'm rolling thunder, pouring rain. I'm coming on like a hurricane. My lightning's flashing across the sky. You're only young but you're gonna die. I won't take no prisoners won't spare no lives. Nobody's putting up a fight

I got my bell I'm gonna take you to hell. I'm gonna get ya, satan get ya. Hells bells

Hells bells, you got me ringing Hells bells, my temperature's high. Hells bells

I'll give you black sensations up and down your spine. If you're into evil, you're a friend of mine. See the white light flashing as I split the night. Cos if good's on the left then I'm sticking to the right. I won't take no prisoners won't spare no lives

Nobody's puttin' up a fight. I got my bell I'm gonna take you to hell. I'm gonna get ya, satan get ya. Songwriters: Brian Johnson / Angus Mckinnon Young / Malcolm Mitchell Young; Hells Bells lyrics © BMG Rights Management US, LLC

b). Good reason not to listen to that music.

Romans 3:16

Destruction and misery are in their ways:

a. NLT: Destruction and misery always follow them. [Scripture quotations marked (NLT) are taken from the Holy Bible, New Living Translation, copyright © 1996, 2004, 2007. Used by permission of Tyndale House Publishers Inc., Carol Stream, Illinois 60188. All rights reserved.]

b. Amplified Bible Classic: Destruction [as it dashes them to pieces] and misery mark their ways. [Amplified Bible, Classic Edition (AMPC) Copyright © 1954, 1958, 1962, 1964, 1965, 1987 by The Lockman Foundation]

1. “Destruction and misery are in their ways.”

a. Destruction [Strong: 4938 suntrimma soon-trim'-mah from 4937; concussion or utter fracture (properly, concretely), i.e. complete ruin:--destruction.]

b. [and] misery [Strong: 5004 talaiporia tal-ahee-po-ree'-ah from 5005; wretchedness, i.e. calamity:--misery.]

c. [are in their] ways [Strong: 3598 hodos hod-os' apparently a primary word; a road; by implication, a progress (the route, act or distance); figuratively, a mode or means:--journey, (high-)way.’

Romans 3:17

And the way of peace have they not known:

a. NLT: They don’t know where to find peace. [Scripture quotations marked (NLT) are taken from the Holy Bible, New Living Translation, copyright © 1996, 2004, 2007. Used by permission of Tyndale House Publishers Inc., Carol Stream, Illinois 60188. All rights reserved.]

b. Amplified Bible Classic: And they have no experience of the way of peace [they know nothing about peace, for a peaceful way they do not even recognize]. [Amplified Bible, Classic Edition (AMPC) Copyright © 1954, 1958, 1962, 1964, 1965, 1987 by The Lockman Foundation]

1. “And the way of peace have they not known:”

Romans 3:18

There is no fear of God before their eyes.

a. NLT: “They have no fear of God at all.” [Scripture quotations marked (NLT) are taken from the Holy Bible, New Living Translation, copyright © 1996, 2004, 2007. Used by permission of Tyndale House Publishers Inc., Carol Stream, Illinois 60188. All rights reserved.]

1. “There is no fear of God before their eyes.”

a. There is fear [Strong: 5401 phobos fob'-os from a primary phebomai (to be put in fear); alarm or fright:--be afraid, + exceedingly, fear, terror.]

b. [of] God [Strong: 2316 theos theh'-os of uncertain affinity; a deity, especially (with 3588) the supreme Divinity; figuratively, a magistrate; by Hebraism, very:--X exceeding, God, god(-ly, -ward).]

c. [before their] eyes [Strong: 3788 ophthalmos of-thal-mos' from 3700; the eye (literally or figuratively); by implication, vision; figuratively, envy (from the jealous side-glance):--eye, sight.]

1). Albert Barnes Commentary: There is no fear of God. The word "fear" here denotes "reverence, awe, veneration." There is no such regard or reverence for the character, authority, and honor of God as to restrain them from crime. Their conduct shows that they are not withheld from the commission of iniquity by any regard to the fear or favor of God. The only thing that will be effectual in restraining people from sin, will be a regard to the honor and Law of God.

a). Psalm 36:1 The transgression of the wicked saith within my heart, that there is no fear of God before his eyes.

Romans 3:19

Now we know that what things soever the law saith, it saith to them who are under the law: that every mouth may be stopped, and all the world may become guilty before God.

a. NLT: Obviously, the law applies to those to whom it was given, for its purpose is to keep people from having excuses, and to show that the entire world is guilty before God. [Scripture quotations marked (NLT) are taken from the Holy Bible, New Living Translation, copyright © 1996, 2004, 2007. Used by permission of Tyndale House Publishers Inc., Carol Stream, Illinois 60188. All rights reserved.]

b. Amplified Bible Classic: Now we know that whatever the Law says, it speaks to those who are under the Law, so that [the murmurs and excuses of] every mouth may be hushed and all the world may be held accountable to God. [Amplified Bible, Classic Edition (AMPC) Copyright © 1954, 1958, 1962, 1964, 1965, 1987 by The Lockman Foundation]

1. “Now we know that what things soever the law saith…”

a. [Now we] know [Strong: 1492 eido i'-do a primary verb; used only in certain past tenses, the others being borrowed from the equivalent 3700 and 3708; properly, to see (literally or figuratively); by implication, (in the perfect tense only) to know:--be aware, behold, X can (+ not tell), consider, (have) know(-ledge), look (on), perceive, see, be sure, tell, understand, wish, wot.]

b. [that what things soever the] law [Strong: 3551 nomos nom'-os from a primary nemo (to parcel out, especially food or grazing to animals); law (through the idea of prescriptive usage), genitive case (regulation), specially, (of Moses (including the volume); also of the Gospel), or figuratively (a principle):--law.]

c. saith [Strong: 3004 lego leg'-o a primary verb; properly, to "lay" forth, i.e. (figuratively) relate (in words (usually of systematic or set discourse; whereas 2036 and 5346 generally refer to an individual expression or speech respectively; while 4483 is properly to break silence merely, and 2980 means an extended or random harangue)); by implication, to mean:--ask, bid, boast, call, describe, give out, name, put forth, say(-ing, on), shew, speak, tell, utter.]

2. “…it saith to them who are under the law…”

a. [it saith to them who are under the] law [Strong: 3551 nomos nom'-os from a primary nemo (to parcel out, especially food or grazing to animals); law (through the idea of prescriptive usage), genitive case (regulation), specially, (of Moses (including the volume); also of the Gospel), or figuratively (a principle):--law.]

3. “…that every mouth may be stopped, and all the world may become guilty before God.”

a. [that every mouth may be] stopped [Strong: 5420 phrasso fras'-so apparently a strengthening form of the base of 5424; to fence or inclose, i.e. (specially), to block up (figuratively, to silence):--stop.]

b. [and all the] world [Strong: 2889 kosmos kos'-mos probably from the base of 2865; orderly arrangement, i.e. decoration; by implication, the world (in a wide or narrow sense, including its inhabitants, literally or figuratively (morally)):--adorning, world.]

c.[may become] guilty [Strong: 5267 hupodikos hoop-od'-ee-kos from 5259 and 1349; under sentence, i.e. (by implication) condemned:--guilty.]

d. [before] God [Strong: 2316 theos theh'-os of uncertain affinity; a deity, especially (with 3588) the supreme Divinity; figuratively, a magistrate; by Hebraism, very:--X exceeding, God, god(-ly, -ward).]

Romans 3:20

Therefore by the deeds of the law there shall no flesh be justified in his sight: for by the law is the knowledge of sin.

a. NLT: For no one can ever be made right with God by doing what the law commands. The law simply shows us how sinful we are. [Scripture quotations marked (NLT) are taken from the Holy Bible, New Living Translation, copyright © 1996, 2004, 2007. Used by permission of Tyndale House Publishers Inc., Carol Stream, Illinois 60188. All rights reserved.]

b. Amplified Bible Classic: For no person will be justified (made righteous, acquitted, and judged acceptable) in His sight by observing the works prescribed by the Law. For [the real function of] the Law is to make men recognize and be conscious of sin [[a]not mere perception, but an acquaintance with sin which works toward repentance, faith, and holy character]. [Amplified Bible, Classic Edition (AMPC) Copyright © 1954, 1958, 1962, 1964, 1965, 1987 by The Lockman Foundation]

1. “Therefore by the deeds of the law there shall no flesh be justified in his sight…”

a. [Therefore by the] deeds [Strong: 2041 ergon er'-gon from a primary (but obsolete) ergo (to work); toil (as an effort or occupation); by implication, an act:--deed, doing, labour, work.]

b. [of the] law [Strong: 3551 nomos nom'-os from a primary nemo (to parcel out, especially food or grazing to animals); law (through the idea of prescriptive usage), genitive case (regulation), specially, (of Moses (including the volume); also of the Gospel), or figuratively (a principle):--law.]

c. [there shall no flesh be] justified [Strong: 1344 dikaioo dik-ah-yo'-o from 1342; to render (i.e. show or regard as) just or innocent:--free, justify(-ier), be righteous.] [Zodhiates: it is used with the preposition ‘apo’-from, referring to all those things from which the Mosaic Law could not liberate us. In this instance as well as in Romans 6:7 where ‘apo’ is used with the word sin, it refers to our liberation from something, i.e., sin which holds a man a prisoner, a slave…thus dikaioo does not mean the mere declaration of innocence, but the liberation from sin which holds a man a prisoner.]

d. [in his] sight [Strong: 1799 enopion en-o'-pee-on neuter of a compound of 1722 and a derivative of 3700; in the face of (literally or figuratively):--before, in the presence (sight) of, to.]

2. “…for by the law is the knowledge of sin.”

a. [for by the] law [Strong: 3551 nomos nom'-os from a primary nemo (to parcel out, especially food or grazing to animals); law (through the idea of prescriptive usage), genitive case (regulation), specially, (of Moses (including the volume); also of the Gospel), or figuratively (a principle):--law.]

b. [is the] knowledge [Strong: 1922 epignosis ep-ig'-no-sis from 1921; recognition, i.e. (by implication) full discernment, acknowledgement:--(ac-)knowledge(-ing, - ment).]

c. [of] sin [Strong: 266 hamartia ham-ar-tee'-ah from 264; a sin (properly abstract):--offence, sin(-ful).]

Romans 3:21

But now the righteousness of God without the law is manifested, being witnessed by the law and the prophets;

a. NLT: But now God has shown us a way to be made right with him without keeping the requirements of the law, as was promised in the writings of Moses and the prophets long ago. [Scripture quotations marked (NLT) are taken from the Holy Bible, New Living Translation, copyright © 1996, 2004, 2007. Used by permission of Tyndale House Publishers Inc., Carol Stream, Illinois 60188. All rights reserved.]

b. Amplified Bible Classic: But now the righteousness of God has been revealed independently and altogether apart from the Law, although actually it is attested by the Law and the Prophets, [Amplified Bible, Classic Edition (AMPC) Copyright © 1954, 1958, 1962, 1964, 1965, 1987 by The Lockman Foundation]

1. “But now the righteousness of God without the law is manifested…”

a. [But now the] righteousness [Strong: 1343 dikaiosune dik-ah-yos-oo'-nay from 1342; equity (of character or act); specially (Christian) justification:--righteousness.]

b. [of] God [2316 * theos] [Strong: of uncertain affinity; a deity, especially (with 3588) the supreme Divinity; figuratively, a magistrate; by Hebraism, very:--X exceeding, God, god(-ly, -ward).]

c. [without] the] law [Strong: 3551 nomos nom'-os from a primary nemo (to parcel out, especially food or grazing to animals); law (through the idea of prescriptive usage), genitive case (regulation), specially, (of Moses (including the volume); also of the Gospel), or figuratively (a principle):--law.]

d. is manifested [Strong: 5319 phaneroo fan-er-o'-o from 5318; to render apparent (literally or figuratively):--appear, manifestly declare, (make) manifest (forth), shew (self).]

2. “…being witnessed by the law…”

a. being witnessed [Strong: 3140 martureo mar-too-reh'-o from 3144; to be a witness, i.e. testify (literally or figuratively):--charge, give (evidence), bear record, have (obtain, of) good (honest) report, be well reported of, testify, give (have) testimony, (be, bear, give, obtain) witness.]

1). A principle under Old Testament law and carried into the New Testament is there must be two or three witnesses to bring a decision.

a). Deuteronomy 17:6 At the mouth of two witnesses, or three witnesses, shall he that is worthy of death be put to death; but at the mouth of one witness he shall not be put to death.

b). Isaiah 8:2 And I took unto me faithful witnesses to record, Uriah the priest, and Zechariah the son of Jeberechiah.

c). Matthew 18:16 But if he will not hear thee, then take with thee one or two more, that in the mouth of two or three witnesses every word may be established.

d). 2 Corinthians 13:1 This is the third time I am coming to you. In the mouth of two or three witnesses shall every word be established.

b. [by the] law [Strong: 3551 nomos nom'-os from a primary nemo (to parcel out, especially food or grazing to animals); law (through the idea of prescriptive usage), genitive case (regulation), specially, (of Moses (including the volume); also of the Gospel), or figuratively (a principle):--law.]

1). The principle of righteousness by faith is clearly witnessed by the law.

a). Deuteronomy 30:11-14 For this commandment which I command thee this day, it is not hidden from thee, neither is it far off.

30:12 It is not in heaven, that thou shouldest say, Who shall go up for us to heaven, and bring it unto us, that we may hear it, and do it?

30:13 Neither is it beyond the sea, that thou shouldest say, Who shall go over the sea for us, and bring it unto us, that we may hear it, and do it?

30:14 But the word is very nigh unto thee, in thy mouth, and in thy heart, that thou mayest do it.

b). Habakkuk 2:4 Behold, his soul which is lifted up is not upright in him: but the just shall live by his faith.

2). This one verse in Habakkuk is quoted three times in the New Testament.

a). Romans 1:17 For therein is the righteousness of God revealed from faith to faith: as it is written, The just shall live by faith.

b). Galatians 3:11 But that no man is justified by the law in the sight of God, it is evident: for, The just shall live by faith.

c) Hebrews 10:38 Now the just shall live by faith: but if any man draw back, my soul shall have no pleasure in him.

3. “…and the prophets;”

a. [and the] prophets [Strong: 4396 prophetes prof-ay'-tace from a compound of 4253 and 5346; a foreteller ("prophet"); by analogy, an inspired speaker; by extension, a poet:--prophet.]

1). We can see it witnessed in the life of Abraham, a prophet.

a). Genesis 15:6 And he believed in the Lord; and he counted it to him for righteousness.

b). Romans 4:9 Cometh this blessedness then upon the circumcision only, or upon the uncircumcision also? for we say that faith was reckoned to Abraham for righteousness.

Romans 3:22

Even the righteousness of God which is by faith of Jesus Christ unto all and upon all them that believe: for there is no difference:

a. NLT: We are made right with God by placing our faith in Jesus Christ. And this is true for everyone who believes, no matter who we are. [Scripture quotations marked (NLT) are taken from the Holy Bible, New Living Translation, copyright © 1996, 2004, 2007. Used by permission of Tyndale House Publishers Inc., Carol Stream, Illinois 60188. All rights reserved.]

b. Amplified Bible Classic: Namely, the righteousness of God which comes by believing with personal trust and confident reliance on Jesus Christ (the Messiah). [And it is meant] for all who believe. For there is no distinction, [Amplified Bible, Classic Edition (AMPC) Copyright © 1954, 1958, 1962, 1964, 1965, 1987 by The Lockman Foundation]

1. “Even the righteousness of God which is by faith of Jesus Christ…”

a. Even [Strong: 1161 de deh a primary particle (adversative or continuative); but, and, etc.:--also, and, but, moreover, now (often unexpressed in English).]

b. [the] righteousness [Strong: 1343 dikaiosune dik-ah-yos-oo'-nay from 1342; equity (of character or act); specially (Christian) justification:--righteousness.]

1). E.W. Kenyon: Righteousness means the ability to stand in the presence of the

Father God without the sense of guilt or inferiority. Righteousness restores to man all that he lost in the Fall, plus a new relationship as a son with all its privileges… Righteousness comes to us in the New Creation. It restores our standing before God.

2). 2 Corinthians 5:17-21 Therefore if any man be in Christ, he is a new creature: old things are passed away; behold, all things are become new.

5:18 And all things are of God, who hath reconciled us to himself by Jesus Christ, and hath given to us the ministry of reconciliation;

5:19 To wit, that God was in Christ, reconciling the world unto himself, not imputing their trespasses unto them; and hath committed unto us the word of reconciliation.

5:20 Now then we are ambassadors for Christ, as though God did beseech you by us: we pray you in Christ's stead, be ye reconciled to God.

5:21 For he hath made him to be sin for us, who knew no sin; that we might be made the righteousness of God in him.

c. [of] God [Strong: 2316. theos theh'-os of uncertain affinity; a deity, especially (with 3588) the supreme Divinity; figuratively, a magistrate; by Hebraism, very:--X exceeding, God, god(-ly, -ward).]

d. [which is by] faith [Strong: 4102 pistis pis'-tis from 3982; persuasion, i.e. credence; moral conviction (of religious truth, or the truthfulness of God or a religious teacher), especially reliance upon Christ for salvation; abstractly, constancy in such profession; by extension, the system of religious (Gospel) truth itself:--assurance, belief, believe, faith, fidelity.]

e. [of] Jesus [Strong: 2424 Iesous ee-ay-sooce' of Hebrew origin (3091); Jesus (i.e. Jehoshua), the name of our Lord and two (three) other Israelites:--Jesus.]

f. Christ [Strong: 5547 Christos khris-tos' from 5548; anointed, i.e. the Messiah, an epithet of Jesus:--Christ.]

1). When we believe by faith what God did through Jesus Christ in his crucifixion, death, burial and resurrection, we receive God’s righteousness. That is right standing with God. The dictionary gives the definition, “the quality of being morally right or justifiable.” God is righteous and when we believe by faith in Christ Jesus, we receive God’s righteousness.

a). Romans 10:9 That if thou shalt confess with thy mouth the Lord Jesus, and shalt believe in thine heart that God hath raised him from the dead, thou shalt be saved.

10:10 For with the heart man believeth unto righteousness; and with the mouth confession is made unto salvation.

b). Ephesians 1:19, 20 And what is the exceeding greatness of his power to us-ward who believe, according to the working of his mighty power,

1:20 Which he wrought in Christ, when he raised him from the dead, and set him at his own right hand in the heavenly places,

2. “…unto all and upon all them that believe: for there is no difference:”

a. unto [Strong: 1519 eis ice a primary preposition; to or into (indicating the point reached or entered), of place, time, or (figuratively) purpose (result, etc.); also in adverbial phrases:--(abundant-)ly, against, among, as, at, (back-)ward, before, by, concerning, + continual, + far more exceeding, for (intent, purpose), fore, + forth, in (among, at, unto, -so much that, -to), to the intent that, + of one mind, + never, of, (up-)on, + perish, + set at one again, (so) that, therefore(-unto), throughout, til, to (be, the end, -ward), (here-)until(-to), ...ward, (where-)fore, with. Often used in composition with the same general import, but only with verbs (etc.) expressing motion (literally or figuratively).]

b. all [Strong: 3956 pas pas including all the forms of declension; apparently a primary word; all, any, every, the whole:--all (manner of, means), alway(-s), any (one), X daily, + ever, every (one, way), as many as, + no(-thing), X thoroughly, whatsoever, whole, whosoever.]

c. [and upon] all [Strong: 3956 pas pas including all the forms of declension; apparently a primary word; all, any, every, the whole:--all (manner of, means), alway(-s), any (one), X daily, + ever, every (one, way), as many as, + no(-thing), X thoroughly, whatsoever, whole, whosoever.]

d. [them that] believe [Strong: 4100 pisteuo pist-yoo'-o from 4102; to have faith (in, upon, or with respect to, a person or thing), i.e. credit; by implication, to entrust (especially one's spiritual well-being to Christ):--believe(-r), commit (to trust), put in trust with.]

1). The Scripture is clear that this righteousness will come to all that belive.

e. [for there is] no [Strong: 3756 ou oo, also (before a vowel) ouk ook, and (before an aspirate) ouch ookh a primary word; the absolute negative (compare 3361) adverb; no or not:--+ long, nay, neither, never, no (X man), none, (can-)not, + nothing, + special, un(-worthy), when, + without, + yet but.

f. difference [Strong: 1293 diastole dee-as-tol-ay' from 1291; a variation:--difference, distinction.]

Romans 3:23

For all have sinned, and come short of the glory of God;

a. NLT: For everyone has sinned; we all fall short of God’s glorious standard. [Scripture quotations marked (NLT) are taken from the Holy Bible, New Living Translation, copyright © 1996, 2004, 2007. Used by permission of Tyndale House Publishers Inc., Carol Stream, Illinois 60188. All rights reserved.]

b. Amplified Bible Classic: Since all have sinned and are falling short of the honor and glory which God bestows and receives. [Amplified Bible, Classic Edition (AMPC) Copyright © 1954, 1958, 1962, 1964, 1965, 1987 by The Lockman Foundation]

1. “For all have sinned, and come short of the glory of God;”

a. [For] all [Strong: 3956 pas pas including all the forms of declension; apparently a primary word; all, any, every, the whole:--all (manner of, means), alway(-s), any (one), X daily, + ever, every (one, way), as many as, + no(-thing), X thoroughly, whatsoever, whole, whosoever.]

b. have sinned [Strong: 264 hamartano ham-ar-tan'-o perhaps from 1 (as a negative particle) and the base of 3313; properly, to miss the mark (and so not share in the prize), i.e. (figuratively) to err, especially (morally) to sin:--for your faults, offend, sin, trespass.]

c. [and] come short [Strong: 5302 hustereo hoos-ter-eh'-o from 5306; to be later, i.e. (by implication) to be inferior; generally, to fall short (be deficient):--come behind (short), be destitute, fail, lack, suffer need, (be in) want, be the worse.]

d. [of] the glory [Strong: 1391. doxa dox'-ah from the base of 1380; glory (as very apparent), in a wide application (literal or figurative, objective or subjective):--dignity, glory(-ious), honour, praise, worship.]

e. [of] God [2316 * theos] [Strong: of uncertain affinity; a deity, especially (with 3588) the supreme Divinity; figuratively, a magistrate; by Hebraism, very:--X exceeding, God, god(-ly, -ward).]

Romans 3:24

Being justified freely by his grace through the redemption that is in Christ Jesus:

a. NLT: Yet God, with undeserved kindness, declares that we are righteous. He did this through Christ Jesus when he freed us from the penalty for our sins. [Scripture quotations marked (NLT) are taken from the Holy Bible, New Living Translation, copyright © 1996, 2004, 2007. Used by permission of Tyndale House Publishers Inc., Carol Stream, Illinois 60188. All rights reserved.]

b. Amplified Bible Classic: [All] are justified and made upright and in right standing with God, freely and gratuitously by His grace (His unmerited favor and mercy), through the redemption which is [provided] in Christ Jesus, [Amplified Bible, Classic Edition (AMPC) Copyright © 1954, 1958, 1962, 1964, 1965, 1987 by The Lockman Foundation]

1. “Being justified freely by his grace through the redemption that is in Christ Jesus:”

a. [Being] justified [Strong: 1344 dikaioo dik-ah-yo'-o from 1342; to render (i.e. show or regard as) just or innocent:--free, justify(-ier), be righteous.] [Zodhiates: it is used with the preposition ‘apo’-from, referring to all those things from which the Mosaic Law could not liberate us. In this instance as well as in Romans 6:7 where ‘apo’ is used with the word sin, it refers to our liberation from something, i.e., sin which holds a man a prisoner, a slave…thus dikaioo does not mean the mere declaration of innocence, but the liberation from sin which holds a man a prisoner.]

b. freely [Strong: 1432. dorean do-reh-an' accusative case of 1431 as adverb; gratuitously (literally or figuratively):--without a cause, freely, for naught, in vain.]

1). E.W. Kenyon: Righteousness means the ability to stand in the presence of the

2). 2 Corinthians 5:17-21 Therefore if any man be in Christ, he is a new creature: old things are passed away; behold, all things are become new.

5:18 And all things are of God, who hath reconciled us to himself by Jesus Christ, and hath given to us the ministry of reconciliation;

5:19 To wit, that God was in Christ, reconciling the world unto himself, not imputing their trespasses unto them; and hath committed unto us the word of reconciliation.

5:20 Now then we are ambassadors for Christ, as though God did beseech you by us: we pray you in Christ's stead, be ye reconciled to God.

5:21 For he hath made him to be sin for us, who knew no sin; that we might be made the righteousness of God in him.

3). When we believe by faith what God did through Jesus Christ in his crucifixion, death, burial and resurrection, we receive God’s righteousness. That is right standing with God. The dictionary gives the definition, “the quality of being morally right or justifiable.” God is righteous and when we believe by faith in Christ Jesus, we receive God’s righteousness.

a). Romans 10:9 That if thou shalt confess with thy mouth the Lord Jesus, and shalt believe in thine heart that God hath raised him from the dead, thou shalt be saved.

10:10 For with the heart man believeth unto righteousness; and with the mouth confession is made unto salvation.

c. [by his] grace [Strong: 5485 charis khar'-ece from 5463; graciousness (as gratifying), of manner or act (abstract or concrete; literal, figurative or spiritual; especially the divine influence upon the heart, and its reflection in the life; including gratitude):--acceptable, benefit, favour, gift, grace(- ious), joy, liberality, pleasure, thank(-s, -worthy).]

d. [through the] redemption [Strong: 629 apolutrosis ap-ol-oo'-tro-sis from a compound of 575 and 3083; (the act) ransom in full, i.e. (figuratively) riddance, or (specially) Christian salvation:--deliverance, redemption.]

e. [that is in] Christ [Strong: 5547 Christos khris-tos' from 5548; anointed, i.e. the Messiah, an epithet of Jesus:--Christ.]

f. Jesus [Strong: 2424 Iesous ee-ay-sooce' of Hebrew origin (3091); Jesus (i.e. Jehoshua), the name of our Lord and two (three) other Israelites:--Jesus.]

Romans 3:25

Whom God hath set forth to be a propitiation through faith in his blood, to declare his righteousness for the remission of sins that are past, through the forbearance of God;

a. NLT: For God presented Jesus as the sacrifice for sin. People are made right with God when they believe that Jesus sacrificed his life, shedding his blood. This sacrifice shows that God was being fair when he held back and did not punish those who sinned in times past, [Scripture quotations marked (NLT) are taken from the Holy Bible, New Living Translation, copyright © 1996, 2004, 2007. Used by permission of Tyndale House Publishers Inc., Carol Stream, Illinois 60188. All rights reserved.]

b. Amplified Bible Classic: Whom God put forward [before the eyes of all] as a mercy seat and propitiation by His blood [the cleansing and life-giving sacrifice of atonement and reconciliation, to be received] through faith. This was to show God’s righteousness, because in His divine forbearance He had passed over and ignored former sins without punishment. [Amplified Bible, Classic Edition (AMPC) Copyright © 1954, 1958, 1962, 1964, 1965, 1987 by The Lockman Foundation]

1. “Whom God hath set forth to be a propitiation through faith in his blood…”

a. [Whom] God [Strong: 2316. theos theh'-os of uncertain affinity; a deity, especially (with 3588) the supreme Divinity; figuratively, a magistrate; by Hebraism, very:--X exceeding, God, god(-ly, -ward).]

b. [hath set forth to be] a propitiation [Strong: 2435 hilasterion hil-as-tay'-ree-on neuter of a derivative of 2433; an expiatory (place or thing), i.e. (concretely) an atoning victim, or (specially) the lid of the Ark (in the Temple):--mercyseat, propitiation.] [English dictionary: the action of propitiating or appeasing a god, spirit, or person. "he lifted his hands in propitiation", atonement, especially that of Jesus Christ.]

c. through faith [Strong: 4102 pistis pis'-tis from 3982; persuasion, i.e. credence; moral conviction (of religious truth, or the truthfulness of God or a religious teacher), especially reliance upon Christ for salvation; abstractly, constancy in such profession; by extension, the system of religious (Gospel) truth itself:--assurance, belief, believe, faith, fidelity.]

d. [in his] blood [Strong: 129 haima hah'-ee-mah of uncertain derivation; blood, literally (of men or animals), figuratively (the juice of grapes) or specially (the atoning blood of Christ); by implication, bloodshed, also kindred:--blood.]

1). The first covering of sin and nakedness took place in the garden after Adam and Eve sinned, with the coat of skins God covered their nakedness and with the blood of the slain animal God covered their sin. Thus the blood covenant was established to allow sinful man to approach God in Covenant and obtain righteousness with God. It was the only way.

a). Genesis 3:21 Unto Adam also and to his wife did the Lord God make coats of skins, and clothed them.

2). With Abel it was the same.

a). Genesis 4:4 And Abel, he also brought of the firstlings of his flock and of the fat thereof. And the Lord had respect unto Abel and to his offering:

b). Hebrews 11:4 By faith Abel offered unto God a more excellent sacrifice than Cain, by which he obtained witness that he was righteous, God testifying of his gifts: and by it he being dead yet speaketh.

3). Faith in His blood, Praise God!

a). Hebrews 9:11, 12 But Christ being come an high priest of good things to come, by a greater and more perfect tabernacle, not made with hands, that is to say, not of this building;

9:12 Neither by the blood of goats and calves, but by his own blood he entered in once into the holy place, having obtained eternal redemption for us.

4). The rejection of the blood covenant was first practiced by Cain when he refused to bring a blood sacrifice before the LORD. Because of his rejection of the blood sacrifice his offering was rejected by God.

a). Genesis 4:3-5 And in process of time it came to pass, that Cain brought of the fruit of the ground an offering unto the Lord.

3:4 And Abel, he also brought of the firstlings of his flock and of the fat thereof. And the Lord had respect unto Abel and to his offering:

3:5 But unto Cain and to his offering he had not respect. And Cain was very wroth, and his countenance fell.

5). I believe that the deception of rejecting the blood covenant sacrifice is what Jude is referring to Jude 11 when he writes, “Woe unto them! For they have gone in the way of Cain…”. Many within apostate Christianity or progressive Christianity reject the blood covenant sacrifice.

2. “…to declare his righteousness for the remission of sins that are past…”

a. [to] declare [Strong: 1732 endeixis en'-dike-sis from 1731; indication (abstractly):--declare, evident token, proof.]

b. [his] righteousness [Strong: 1343 dikaiosune dik-ah-yos-oo'-nay from 1342; equity (of character or act); specially (Christian) justification:--righteousness.]

c. [for the] remission [Strong: 3929 paresis par'-es-is from 2935; praetermission, i.e. toleration:--remission.]

d. [of] sins [Strong: 265 hamartema ham-ar'-tay-mah from 264; a sin (properly concrete):--sin.]

e. [that are] past [Strong: 4266 proginomai prog-in'-om-ahee from 4253 and 1096; to be already, i.e. have previousy transpired:--be past.]

3. “…through the forbearance of God;”

a. [through the] forebearance [Strong: 463 anoche an-okh-ay' from 430; self-restraint, i.e. tolerance:--forbearance.

b. [of] God [Strong: 2316. theos theh'-os of uncertain affinity; a deity, especially (with 3588) the supreme Divinity; figuratively, a magistrate; by Hebraism, very:--X exceeding, God, god(-ly, -ward).]

Romans 3:26

To declare, I say, at this time his righteousness: that he might be just, and the justifier of him which believeth in Jesus.

a. NLT: For he was looking ahead and including them in what he would do in this present time. God did this to demonstrate his righteousness, for he himself is fair and just, and he declares sinners to be right in his sight when they believe in Jesus. [Scripture quotations marked (NLT) are taken from the Holy Bible, New Living Translation, copyright © 1996, 2004, 2007. Used by permission of Tyndale House Publishers Inc., Carol Stream, Illinois 60188. All rights reserved.]

b. Amplified Bible Classic: It was to demonstrate and prove at the present time ([d]in the now season) that He Himself is righteous and that He justifies and accepts as righteous him who has [true] faith in Jesus. [Amplified Bible, Classic Edition (AMPC) Copyright © 1954, 1958, 1962, 1964, 1965, 1987 by The Lockman Foundation]

1. “To declare, I say, at this time his righteousness…”

a. To declare [I say] [Strong: 1732 endeixis en'-dike-sis from 1731; indication (abstractly):--declare, evident token, proof.]

b. [at this time his] righteousness [Strong: 1343 dikaiosune dik-ah-yos-oo'-nay from 1342; equity (of character or act); specially (Christian) justification:--righteousness.]

1). E.W. Kenyon: Righteousness means the ability to stand in the presence of the

2). 2 Corinthians 5:17-21 Therefore if any man be in Christ, he is a new creature: old things are passed away; behold, all things are become new.

5:18 And all things are of God, who hath reconciled us to himself by Jesus Christ, and hath given to us the ministry of reconciliation;

5:19 To wit, that God was in Christ, reconciling the world unto himself, not imputing their trespasses unto them; and hath committed unto us the word of reconciliation.

5:20 Now then we are ambassadors for Christ, as though God did beseech you by us: we pray you in Christ's stead, be ye reconciled to God.

5:21 For he hath made him to be sin for us, who knew no sin; that we might be made the righteousness of God in him.

2. “…that he might be just, and the justifier of him which believeth in Jesus.”

a. [that he might be] just [Strong: 1342 dikaios dik'-ah-yos from 1349; equitable (in character or act); by implication, innocent, holy (absolutely or relatively):--just, meet, right(-eous).]

b. [and the] justifier [Strong: 1344 dikaioo dik-ah-yo'-o from 1342; to render (i.e. show or regard as) just or innocent:--free, justify(-ier), be righteous.]

c. [of him which] believeth [Strong: 4102 pistis pis'-tis from 3982; persuasion, i.e. credence; moral conviction (of religious truth, or the truthfulness of God or a religious teacher), especially reliance upon Christ for salvation; abstractly, constancy in such profession; by extension, the system of religious (Gospel) truth itself:--assurance, belief, believe, faith, fidelity.]

d. [in] Jesus [Strong: 2424 Iesous ee-ay-sooce' of Hebrew origin (3091); Jesus (i.e. Jehoshua), the name of our Lord and two (three) other Israelites:--Jesus.]

1). Romans 3:19-23 Now we know that what things soever the law saith, it saith to them who are under the law: that every mouth may be stopped, and all the world may become guilty before God.

3:20 Therefore by the deeds of the law there shall no flesh be justified in his sight: for by the law is the knowledge of sin.

3:21 But now the righteousness of God without the law is manifested, being witnessed by the law and the prophets;

3:22 Even the righteousness of God which is by faith of Jesus Christ unto all and upon all them that believe: for there is no difference:

3:23 For all have sinned, and come short of the glory of God;

Romans 3:27

Where is boasting then? It is excluded. By what law? of works? Nay: but by the law of faith.

a. NLT: Can we boast, then, that we have done anything to be accepted by God? No, because our acquittal is not based on obeying the law. It is based on faith. [Scripture quotations marked (NLT) are taken from the Holy Bible, New Living Translation, copyright © 1996, 2004, 2007. Used by permission of Tyndale House Publishers Inc., Carol Stream, Illinois 60188. All rights reserved.]

b. Amplified Bible Classic: Then what becomes of [our] pride and [our] boasting? It is excluded (banished, ruled out entirely). On what principle? [On the principle] of doing good deeds? No, but on the principle of faith. Amplified Bible, Classic Edition (AMPC) Copyright © 1954, 1958, 1962, 1964, 1965, 1987 by The Lockman Foundation]

1. “Where is boasting then? It is excluded…”

a. Where [is] boasting [2746 kauchesis kow'-khay-sis from 2744; boasting (properly, the act; by implication, the object), in a good or a bad sense:--boasting, whereof I may glory, glorying, rejoicing.]

b. Then ? [Strong: 3767 oun oon apparently a primary word; (adverbially) certainly, or (conjunctionally) accordingly:--and (so, truly), but, now (then), so (likewise then), then, therefore, verily, wherefore.]

c. [It is] excluded [Strong: 1576 ekkleio ek-kli'-o from 1537 and 2808; to shut out (literally or figuratively):--exclude.]

2. “…By what law? of works? Nay: but by the law of faith.”

a. By [Strong: 1223 dia dee-ah' a primary preposition denoting the channel of an act; through (in very wide applications, local, causal, or occasional):--after, always, among, at, to avoid, because of (that), briefly, by, for (cause) ... fore, from, in, by occasion of, of, by reason of, for sake, that, thereby, therefore, X though, through(-out), to, wherefore, with (-in). In composition it retains the same general importance.]

b. [what] law [Strong: 3551 nomos nom'-os from a primary nemo (to parcel out, especially food or grazing to animals); law (through the idea of prescriptive usage), genitive case (regulation), specially, (of Moses (including the volume); also of the Gospel), or figuratively (a principle):--law.]

c. [of] works [Strong: 2041 ergon er'-gon from a primary (but obsolete) ergo (to work); toil (as an effort or occupation); by implication, an act:--deed, doing, labour, work.]

d. Nay [Strong: 3780 ouchi oo-khee' intensive of 3756; not indeed:--nay, not.]

e. [but by the] law [Strong: 3551 nomos nom'-os from a primary nemo (to parcel out, especially food or grazing to animals); law (through the idea of prescriptive usage), genitive case (regulation), specially, (of Moses (including the volume); also of the Gospel), or figuratively (a principle):--law.]

f. [of] faith [Strong: 4102 pistis pis'-tis from 3982; persuasion, i.e. credence; moral conviction (of religious truth, or the truthfulness of God or a religious teacher), especially reliance upon Christ for salvation; abstractly, constancy in such profession; by extension, the system of religious (Gospel) truth itself:--assurance, belief, believe, faith, fidelity.]

Romans 3:28

Therefore we conclude that a man is justified by faith without the deeds of the law.

a. NLT: So we are made right with God through faith and not by obeying the law. [Scripture quotations marked (NLT) are taken from the Holy Bible, New Living Translation, copyright © 1996, 2004, 2007. Used by permission of Tyndale House Publishers Inc., Carol Stream, Illinois 60188. All rights reserved.]

b. Amplified Bible Classic: For we hold that a man is justified and made upright by faith independent of and distinctly apart from good deeds (works of the Law). [The observance of the Law has nothing to do with justification.] [Amplified Bible, Classic Edition (AMPC) Copyright © 1954, 1958, 1962, 1964, 1965, 1987 by The Lockman Foundation]

1. “Therefore we conclude that a man is justified by faith without the deeds of the law.”

a. Therefore [Strong: 3767 oun oon apparently a primary word; (adverbially) certainly, or (conjunctionally) accordingly:--and (so, truly), but, now (then), so (likewise then), then, therefore, verily, wherefore.]

b. we conclude [Strong: 3049 logizomai log-id'-zom-ahee middle voice from 3056; to take an inventory, i.e. estimate (literally or figuratively):--conclude, (ac-)count (of), + despise, esteem, impute, lay, number, reason, reckon, suppose, think (on).

c. [that a] man [Strong: 444 anthropos anth'-ro-pos from 435 and ops (the countenance; from 3700); man-faced, i.e. a human being:--certain, man.]

d. is justified [Strong: dikaioo dik-ah-yo'-o from 1342; to render (i.e. show or regard as) just or innocent:--free, justify(-ier), be righteous.]

e. [by] faith [Strong: 4102 pistis pis'-tis from 3982; persuasion, i.e. credence; moral conviction (of religious truth, or the truthfulness of God or a religious teacher), especially reliance upon Christ for salvation; abstractly, constancy in such profession; by extension, the system of religious (Gospel) truth itself:--assurance, belief, believe, faith, fidelity.]

f. without [Strong: 5565 choris kho-rece' adverb from 5561; at a space, i.e. separately or apart from (often as preposition):--beside, by itself, without.]

g. [the] deeds [Strong: 2041 ergon er'-gon from a primary (but obsolete) ergo (to work); toil (as an effort or occupation); by implication, an act:--deed, doing, labour, work.]

h. [of the] law [Strong: 3551 nomos nom'-os from a primary nemo (to parcel out, especially food or grazing to animals); law (through the idea of prescriptive usage), genitive case (regulation), specially, (of Moses (including the volume); also of the Gospel), or figuratively (a principle):--law.]

1). Galatians 3:10-12 For as many as are of the works of the law are under the curse: for it is written, Cursed is every one that continueth not in all things which are written in the book of the law to do them.

3:11 But that no man is justified by the law in the sight of God, it is evident: for, The just shall live by faith.

3:12 And the law is not of faith: but, The man that doeth them shall live in them.

Romans 3:29

Is he the God of the Jews only? is he not also of the Gentiles? Yes, of the Gentiles also:

a. NLT: After all, is God the God of the Jews only? Isn’t he also the God of the Gentiles? Of course he is. [Scripture quotations marked (NLT) are taken from the Holy Bible, New Living Translation, copyright © 1996, 2004, 2007. Used by permission of Tyndale House Publishers Inc., Carol Stream, Illinois 60188. All rights reserved.]

b. Amplified Bible Classic: Or is God merely [the God] of Jews? Is He not the God of Gentiles also? Yes, of Gentiles also, [Amplified Bible, Classic Edition (AMPC) Copyright © 1954, 1958, 1962, 1964, 1965, 1987 by The Lockman Foundation]

1. “Is he the God of the Jews only? is he not also of the Gentiles? Yes, of the Gentiles also:”

a. [Is he] [Strong: 2228 e ay a primary particle of distinction between two connected terms; disjunctive, or; comparative, than:--and, but (either), (n-)either, except it be, (n-)or (else), rather, save, than, that, what, yea. Often used in connection with other particles.]

b. [the] God [Strong: 2316. theos theh'-os of uncertain affinity; a deity, especially (with 3588) the supreme Divinity; figuratively, a magistrate; by Hebraism, very:--X exceeding, God, god(-ly, -ward).]

c. [of the] Jews [Strong: 2453 Ioudaios ee-oo-dah'-yos from 2448 (in the sense of 2455 as a country); Judaean, i.e. belonging to Jehudah:--Jew(-ess), of Judaea.]

d. only [Strong: 3440 monon mon'-on neuter of 3441 as adverb; merely:--alone, but, only.]

e. [is he not also of the] Gentiles [Strong: 1484 ethnos eth'-nos probably from 1486; a race (as of the same habit), i.e. a tribe; specially, a foreign (non-Jewish) one (usually, by implication, pagan):--Gentile, heathen, nation, people.]

f. Yes [Strong: nai nahee a primary particle of strong affirmation; yes:--even so, surely, truth, verily, yea, yes.]

g. [of the] Gentiles [also] [Strong: 1484 ethnos eth'-nos probably from 1486; a race (as of the same habit), i.e. a tribe; specially, a foreign (non-Jewish) one (usually, by implication, pagan):--Gentile, heathen, nation, people.]

Romans 3:30

Seeing it is one God, which shall justify the circumcision by faith, and uncircumcision through faith.

a. NLT: There is only one God, and he makes people right with himself only by faith, whether they are Jews or Gentiles. [Scripture quotations marked (NLT) are taken from the Holy Bible, New Living Translation, copyright © 1996, 2004, 2007. Used by permission of Tyndale House Publishers Inc., Carol Stream, Illinois 60188. All rights reserved.]

b. Amplified Bible Classic: Since it is one and the same God Who will justify the circumcised by faith [which germinated from Abraham] and the uncircumcised through their [newly acquired] faith. [For it is the same trusting faith in both cases, a firmly relying faith in Jesus Christ]. [Amplified Bible, Classic Edition (AMPC) Copyright © 1954, 1958, 1962, 1964, 1965, 1987 by The Lockman Foundation]

1. “Seeing it is one God, which shall justify the circumcision by faith…”

a. [Seeing it is one] God [Strong: 2316. theos theh'-os of uncertain affinity; a deity, especially (with 3588) the supreme Divinity; figuratively, a magistrate; by Hebraism, very:--X exceeding, God, god(-ly, -ward).]

b. [which shall] justify [Strong: 1344 dikaioo dik-ah-yo'-o from 1342; to render (i.e. show or regard as) just or innocent:--free, justify(-ier), be righteous.]

c. [the] circumcision [Strong: 4061 peritome per-it-om-ay' from 4059; circumcision (the rite, the condition or the people, literally or figuratively):--X circumcised, circumcision.]

d. [by] faith [Strong: 4102 pistis pis'-tis from 3982; persuasion, i.e. credence; moral conviction (of religious truth, or the truthfulness of God or a religious teacher), especially reliance upon Christ for salvation; abstractly, constancy in such profession; by extension, the system of religious (Gospel) truth itself:--assurance, belief, believe, faith, fidelity.]

2. “…and uncircumcision through faith.”

a. [and] uncircumcision [Strong: 203 akrobustia ak-rob-oos-tee'-ah from 206 and probably a modified form of posthe (the penis or male sexual organ); the prepuce; by implication, an uncircumcised (i.e. gentile, figuratively, unregenerate) state or person:--not circumcised, uncircumcised (with 2192), uncircumcision.]

c. [through] faith [Strong: 4102 pistis pis'-tis from 3982; persuasion, i.e. credence; moral conviction (of religious truth, or the truthfulness of God or a religious teacher), especially reliance upon Christ for salvation; abstractly, constancy in such profession; by extension, the system of religious (Gospel) truth itself:--assurance, belief, believe, faith, fidelity.]

Romans 3:31

Do we then make void the law through faith? God forbid: yea, we establish the law.

a. NLT: Well then, if we emphasize faith, does this mean that we can forget about the law? Of course not! In fact, only when we have faith do we truly fulfill the law. [Scripture quotations marked (NLT) are taken from the Holy Bible, New Living Translation, copyright © 1996, 2004, 2007. Used by permission of Tyndale House Publishers Inc., Carol Stream, Illinois 60188. All rights reserved.]

b. Amplified Bible Classic: Do we then by [this] faith make the Law of no effect, overthrow it or make it a dead letter? Certainly not! On the contrary, we confirm and establish and uphold the Law. [Amplified Bible, Classic Edition (AMPC) Copyright © 1954, 1958, 1962, 1964, 1965, 1987 by The Lockman Foundation]

1. “Do we then make void the law through faith? God forbid: yea, we establish the law.”

a. [Do we then] make void [Strong: 2673 katargeo kat-arg-eh'-o from 2596 and 691; to be (render) entirely idle (useless), literally or figuratively:--abolish, cease, cumber, deliver, destroy, do away, become (make) of no (none, without) effect, fail, loose, bring (come) to nought, put away (down), vanish away, make void.]

b. [the] law [Strong: 3551 nomos nom'-os from a primary nemo (to parcel out, especially food or grazing to animals); law (through the idea of prescriptive usage), genitive case (regulation), specially, (of Moses (including the volume); also of the Gospel), or figuratively (a principle):--law.]

2. “…God forbid: yea, we establish the law.”

a. God forbid [Strong: 3361 me may a primary particle of qualified negation (whereas 3756 expresses an absolute denial); (adverb) not, (conjunction) lest; also (as an interrogative implying a negative answer (whereas 3756 expects an affirmative one)) whether:--any but (that), X forbear, + God forbid, + lack, lest, neither, never, no (X wise in), none, nor, (can-)not, nothing, that not, un(-taken), without. Often used in compounds in substantially the same relations.]

b. yea [we] establish [Strong: 2476 histemi his'-tay-mee a prolonged form of a primary stao stah'-o (of the same meaning, and used for it in certain tenses); to stand (transitively or intransitively), used in various applications (literally or figuratively):--abide, appoint, bring, continue, covenant, establish, hold up, lay, present, set (up), stanch, stand (by, forth, still, up).]

c. [the] law [Strong: 3551 nomos nom'-os from a primary nemo (to parcel out, especially food or grazing to animals); law (through the idea of prescriptive usage), genitive case (regulation), specially, (of Moses (including the volume); also of the Gospel), or figuratively (a principle):--law.]

Don Costello

Friday, October 29, 2021

Romans 3

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