Mar 18, 2019
Originally Presented on November 19, 2006.
Scripture: Romans 3:21-28
Romans 3:21 marks the beginning of the second main section of the book of Romans. In the first section the entire human race is indicted for denying God's honor ("For even though they knew God, they did not honor Him as God" - Rom 1:21). All people, regardless of status, stand guilty.
Romans 3:21-5:21 describes, in detail, how God can stay true to Himself, maintaining His righteousness, and accept anyone into heaven. What will a holy God do about sin, seeing that He is perfect in justice? Romans 3:21-31, in particular, answers that question.
When Romans 3:21,22 refer to "the righteousness of God," it is not a reference to God's being righteous, but God's imparting righteousness. A man can be given the righteousness of God on the basis of faith in Jesus Christ. This gift of God is not earned by one's keeping God's commands (Rom 3:20,21), but is received by trusting in the person and work of Christ.
On the basis of faith in Christ we are 'justified'. This is the great doctrine of justification by faith. The reformers used to say 'sola fide' . . . faith alone. To be justified means to be declared righteous. It is the removal of the punishment of hell and the impartation of the righteousness to us. Is there any truth in all the universe more wonderful and life-giving and hope-producing than the notion of a sinful man (each of us) being justified, forever, before our Maker and Judge?