What is the meaning of Romans 3:4? Certainly Not! Paul has just asked if Israel’s unbelief could somehow nullify God’s faithfulness (Romans 3:3). His immediate answer is an emphatic “Certainly not!” The same phrase punctuates other strong denials in Romans 6:2 and 9:14, underscoring that God’s character and purposes cannot be overturned by human failure. Our doubts never diminish His dependability. Let God Be True God’s truthfulness is absolute. • Numbers 23:19 declares, “God is not a man, that He should lie.” • Titus 1:2 reminds us that He “cannot lie.” • John 3:33 says those who accept Christ’s testimony “have certified that God is truthful.” Because His very nature is truth, His promises—whether of judgment or salvation—stand firm. Believers rest securely on a foundation that cannot shift. And Every Man a Liar By contrast, humanity is fallen and unreliable. • Psalm 116:11 laments, “All men are liars!” • Jeremiah 17:9 exposes the heart as “deceitful above all things.” • Romans 3:10–12 will soon list a cascade of Old Testament citations showing none righteous. Acknowledging our untrustworthiness magnifies God’s faithfulness. When human testimony clashes with divine revelation, Scripture insists we side with God. As It Is Written Paul now quotes Psalm 51:4, David’s confession after his sin with Bathsheba. By saying “as it is written,” he roots his argument in inspired text, showing that even Israel’s greatest king bowed to God’s verdict. Scripture interprets Scripture; David’s words supply the pattern for true repentance. So That You May Be Proved Right When You Speak David conceded that God’s words about his sin were “right.” • Psalm 19:9 affirms, “the judgments of the LORD are true.” • Romans 9:14 asks, “Is God unjust? Certainly not!” Every divine declaration—whether exposing sin or announcing grace—stands uncontested. God’s truth prevails even when it confronts our deepest shortcomings. And Victorious When You Judge God’s judgments are not only accurate; they triumph. • Acts 17:31 declares He “will judge the world with justice.” • Revelation 19:2 celebrates, “His judgments are true and just.” The day is coming when every creature will acknowledge the righteousness of His verdicts (Philippians 2:10–11). For the redeemed, that victory means vindication; for the unrepentant, it means rightful condemnation. Summary Romans 3:4 reminds us that God’s truth is unassailable. Human unbelief, distortion, or denial cannot alter His promises or His judgments. Like David, we must admit our own propensity to deceive and gladly yield to the One whose every word is right and whose every verdict is victorious. Placing our trust in Him alone, we find both accountability and assurance. |
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