Scripture to Read: Romans 3
Sin destroys everyone because sin always results in death. God had Paul reveal, in Romans 3:1–20, the ugliness of sin and the awesomeness of God’s righteousness. God had Paul ask some ridiculous questions in Romans 3 because God knows the hearts of mankind and knows that all mankind will seek to rationalize their sin and think God to be too harsh in His judgment of sin. God leaves no doubt that everyone is under the power and penalty of sin apart from Christ. Everyone is born with a sinful nature, so everyone is accountable to God for the sins they commit each day. God also has Paul, in Romans 3:10–18, quote from Psalm 14:1–3, Psalm 53:1–3, Psalm 5:9, Psalm 140:3, Psalm 10:7, and Psalm 36:1 to show how sinful everyone is apart from having a relationship with our Lord Jesus Christ. As God led Paul to write His Word, God had Paul nail down, in Romans 3:21–31, that people can only be justified before Him through placing their faith in Christ alone. We read in Romans 3:21–22, “But now the righteousness of God has been clearly revealed [independently and completely] apart from the Law, though it is [actually] confirmed by the Law and the [words and writings of the] Prophets. 22 This righteousness of God comes through faith in Jesus Christ for all those [Jew or Gentile] who believe [and trust in Him and acknowledge Him as God’s Son]” (AMP). God makes sure that no one misses His Truth about salvation through Christ.
Challenge & Application
Why does sin separate everyone from God, and why is everyone under the power and penalty of sin apart from Christ?
How are people set free from the power and penalty of sin, and why should we share this truth?
Don’t forget to pray using the A.C.T.S. (Adoration, Confession, Thanksgiving, Supplication) method!