How does Romans 3:22 emphasize faith in Jesus for righteousness? Setting the Scene in Romans • Paul has just demonstrated that every person, Jew and Gentile alike, stands guilty before a holy God (Romans 3:9–20). • Into that darkness Paul introduces the only true remedy: the righteousness that God Himself provides. Exact Words to Anchor Us “And this righteousness from God comes through faith in Jesus Christ to all who believe. There is no distinction” (Romans 3:22). Three Core Truths in the Verse 1. Source: “this righteousness from God” • Righteousness is not manufactured by humanity; it originates with God alone. • Isaiah 45:24 affirms that righteousness is found “only in the LORD.” 2. Means: “through faith in Jesus Christ” • Faith, not human effort, is the sole conduit. • Galatians 2:16 declares that a person is “not justified by works of the law but through faith in Jesus Christ.” • Ephesians 2:8–9 reinforces that salvation is “by grace … through faith … not a result of works.” 3. Scope: “to all who believe … no distinction” • The offer extends universally—Jew or Gentile, moral or immoral. • Romans 10:12 states there is “no distinction between Jew and Greek, for the same Lord is Lord of all.” Faith, Not Works • Romans 4:4–5 explains that righteousness is “credited … to the one who does not work but believes.” • Works can never erase sin; faith receives the finished work of Christ. • Titus 3:5 underscores salvation “not by works of righteousness that we have done.” Jesus: The Exclusive Object of Saving Faith • John 14:6 records Jesus saying He is “the way, and the truth, and the life.” • Acts 4:12 insists there is “no other name under heaven … by which we must be saved.” • 2 Corinthians 5:21 shows the exchange: Christ “became sin for us … so that in Him we might become the righteousness of God.” Righteousness as a Gift Credited to Believers • Genesis 15:6 sets the precedent with Abraham: belief credited as righteousness. • Philippians 3:9 speaks of a righteousness “that comes through faith in Christ.” • Romans 5:17 calls it “the gift of righteousness.” Universal Need, Universal Provision • Romans 3:23 states all have sinned; Romans 3:22 declares the way to be right with God. • John 3:16 proclaims God’s love made manifest in the gift of His Son, received by believing. Living in the Reality of Credited Righteousness • Rest in the sufficiency of Christ’s finished work. • Stand confident before God, clothed in the righteousness He freely gives. • Walk in gratitude and obedience, not to earn favor but because favor has already been granted through faith in Jesus. |
    |