Romans 3:21-26 But now the righteousness of God has been manifested apart from the law, although the Law and the Prophets bear witness to it– 22 the righteousness of God through faith in Jesus Christ for all who believe. For there is no distinction: 23 for all have sinned and fall short of the glory of God, 24 and are justified by his grace as a gift, through the redemption that is in Christ Jesus, 25 whom God put forward as a propitiation by his blood, to be received by faith. This was to show God’s righteousness, because in his divine forbearance he had passed over former sins. 26 It was to show his righteousness at the present time, so that he might be just and the justifier of the one who has faith in Jesus. (ESV)
Martin Luther claimed that this section was “the chief point, and the very central place of the Epistle, and of the whole Bible.”
That may be overstated, but it does point out how signification this section is.
Paul transition form the problem of sin, which affects all mankind, to the possibility and promise of a relationship with God through Jesus Christ.
While some have seen from 5 to 13 different metaphors in Scripture to explain what was accomplished for us by Christ on the cross–the process, provision and pattern of salvation–in this one short passage Paul covers three primary concepts.
These three concepts help us understand some of the wonder, beauty, depth, breath and fullness of our salvation.
Justification |
Court Room Language |
declared righteous in Christ |
Redemption |
Market Place Language |
purchased through exchange of Christ |
Propitiation |
|
atoning sacrifice satisfying God’s holiness by Christ’s blood |
What wonderful truths. Leads to WOW! Wonder of Wonders.
Praise the Lord for His so great salvation.