What is the meaning of Romans 10:4? For Christ Everything in Romans 10:4 begins with Jesus Himself. He is the central figure, the One to whom every promise and prophecy points. John 14:6 echoes Paul’s focus when Jesus says, “I am the way and the truth and the life.” Colossians 1:17–18 reminds us that “in Him all things hold together,” underscoring His supremacy. Scripture consistently shows that salvation is not a system, a ritual, or a moral ladder; it is a Person—Christ. Key implications: - Christ is the promised Messiah first proclaimed in Genesis 3:15 and longed for throughout the Old Testament. - He perfectly reveals the Father (John 1:18), so coming to Christ is coming to God. - All discussion of law, righteousness, and faith is meaningless without fixing our eyes on Him (Hebrews 12:2). is the end of the law Paul says plainly that Christ brings the law to its intended conclusion. Matthew 5:17–18 records Jesus declaring, “Do not think that I have come to abolish the Law or the Prophets; I have not come to abolish them, but to fulfill them.” Consider: - Fulfillment, not abolition. Jesus obeyed every command perfectly (1 Peter 2:22). Because the law demanded perfect obedience (Deuteronomy 27:26), only in Him is that demand met. - The guardian has done its job. Galatians 3:24–25 explains that the law was a tutor leading us to Christ; once faith has come, we are no longer under a tutor. - A new covenant is in place. Hebrews 8:13 states, “By calling this covenant ‘new,’ He has made the first one obsolete.” The ceremonial and civil aspects of the Mosaic code no longer bind believers; the moral heart of God’s law is written on our hearts by the Spirit (Jeremiah 31:33; Romans 8:4). to bring righteousness The outcome of Christ’s fulfillment is the gift of righteousness. Romans 3:21–22 celebrates that “now apart from the law the righteousness of God has been revealed… through faith in Jesus Christ to all who believe.” What this righteousness means: - It is imputed, not earned (2 Corinthians 5:21). Jesus bore our sin and credits us with His perfect record. - It satisfies God’s justice (Romans 5:1). We have peace with God, not probationary standing. - It produces new life (Philippians 3:9). The righteousness we receive changes how we live, bearing fruit of the Spirit (Galatians 5:22–23). to everyone who believes The offer is universal and the condition is faith. Romans 1:16 affirms the gospel is “the power of God for salvation to everyone who believes, first to the Jew, then to the Greek.” Faith involves: - Trusting in Christ’s finished work, not our own (Ephesians 2:8–9). - Receiving Him personally (John 1:12). - Continuing reliance, evidenced by confession and obedience (Romans 10:9–10; James 2:17). Because the promise is “to everyone,” there is no room for ethnic, social, or moral barriers (Galatians 3:28). Anyone who believes—regardless of past failures—stands righteous in God’s sight. summary Romans 10:4 proclaims that Jesus is the focal point of God’s redemptive plan. He fulfills the law perfectly, closes its chapter of condemnation, and opens the door of righteousness. That righteousness is offered freely, without distinction, to all who place their trust in Him. |