What does Romans 3:21 mean?

Explanation

Romans 3:21 introduces a major turning point in the Apostle Paul's argument in his Epistle to the Romans. The previous verses in the chapter discuss the universal sinfulness of humanity and the inability of the law to justify people before God.

In this verse, Paul begins to reveal the solution to this predicament, which is the righteousness of God.

This righteousness is not based on adherence to the Mosaic Law but is instead something that God freely provides apart from the law.

Yet, it is not entirely disconnected from the law because the law and the prophets (the Hebrew Scriptures) have attested to this righteousness.

Essentially, Paul is saying that this means of obtaining righteousness was both a fulfillment of and witnessed by the Hebrew Scriptures.

The deeper meaning here is that God's righteousness is made available through faith in Jesus Christ to all who believe, both Jews and Gentiles. This new way of being righteous before God is a gift, independent of human achievement or observance of the law.

Historical Context

The Book of Romans was written by the Apostle Paul around A.D. 56-58 to the church in Rome, which was likely made up of both Jewish and Gentile Christians.

At that time, there was a great deal of discussion within the early church about the role of the Jewish law (the Torah) and whether it was necessary for salvation, especially for Gentile converts.

Romans 3:21 reflects Paul's argument that righteousness and justification before God come by faith and not by works of the law.

Theological Insights

This verse offers rich theological insights.

From a Protestant viewpoint, it emphasizes justification by faith alone (sola fide), echoing the doctrine that became central to the Reformation.

In Catholic theology, while faith is essential for justification, this event begins a process of sanctification where good works play an integral role as a response to God's grace.

For Eastern Orthodox theology, this verse might be seen within the context of theosis, the process of becoming more like God through cooperation with his grace.

Practical Applications

Romans 3:21 encourages individuals to rely not on their moral achievements or adherence to religious rites for their standing before God but rather on faith in what God has done through Jesus Christ.

In daily life, this can inspire a sense of humility and gratitude and may encourage believers to extend grace and forgiveness to others, as they themselves have been recipients of divine grace.

Cross-References

• 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."
• 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."

Language Study

The key phrase "righteousness of God" (dikaiosyne theou in Greek) refers to a God-bestowed righteousness or a status of being right before God.

The term "manifested" (pephanerōtai in Greek) implies something that has been made clear or revealed.

The term "law" (nomos in Greek) often refers to the Torah, the first five books of the Old Testament, while "prophets" (prophētai in Greek) refers to the prophetic books of the Old Testament.

Cultural and Religious Comparisons

Comparisons can be drawn between Paul's ideas and those in some other religious traditions that also emphasize an inner, divine-given righteousness apart from external rites.

For instance, in certain strands of Hinduism and Buddhism, there is a concept of achieving a form of righteousness or enlightenment through internal understanding rather than external observance.

Scientific Perspectives

Scientific perspectives might not directly relate to the conceptual content of this theological verse.

However, one might explore the psychological benefits of holding a belief in divine grace and the resulting impact on an individual's mental health.

commentaries

Several biblical scholars and theologians have commented on this verse.

Reformation figures like Martin Luther and John Calvin emphasized its role in articulating the doctrine of justification by faith.

Contemporary scholars, like N.T.

Wright, examine it in light of first-century Judaism and argue that it speaks about God's covenant faithfulness being available to all through faith in Jesus.

Tom Schreiner, in his commentary on Romans, discusses how this verse serves to unite the Old Testament and the New Testament message by showing how the latter fulfills the anticipation of the former.