October 21 – Theology in a Nutshell – Romans 3
Two main topics are discussed in this chapter. The first is the sin of man, and the second is the saving grace provided through the redemption from Jesus Christ. If man had not sinned, grace would not be needed. Without the law, sin could not be revealed. Verse four lays a foundation as to how to approach the Law; “let God be true and every man a liar.” Verse eighteen highlights the reason why we sin; “There is no fear of God before their eyes.” The Old Testament law was given to us to act as a mirror to reveal our sin problem. The Law was never intended to be a means of salvation, but was to reveal sin, pointing to man’s need for salvation. Some have perverted Scripture to say that once a person is saved, they are under grace and do not need to obey Scriptures or please God. Of course, we know this is not the case. Paul is highlighting the importance of recognizing our sin condition, and the only solution to our sin condition, which is Jesus Christ.