But now apart from the law the righteousness of God has been made known, to which the Law and the Prophets testify. Romans 3:21
In Paul’s day Rome was a vast empire spanning an area from Britain to Arabia. It was wealthy and cosmopolitan. All roads led to Rome, so people traveled and there were Roman citizens who witnessed Peter’s sermon on the day of Pentecost. This letter is addressed to the Christian community in Rome that took root on that day. It would be three long years before Paul personally reached Rome and it would be as a prisoner.
Paul is placing all the pieces of God’s ‘puzzle’ together. The death and resurrection of Christ is the only means of salvation. The prophets testified to this even if they were not to see it in person. Christ’s sacrifice changed obedience to the law to obedience to love.
As Christians we are all the same, there is no differentiation between Jew and Gentile. We are all alike under the power of sin and salvation comes to all of us exactly the same. The following verses are very familiar and add to the understanding of verse 21. “This righteousness is given through faith in Jesus Christ to all who believe. There is no difference between Jew and Gentile, for all have sinned and fall short of the glory of God.”
Praise be to God, for His Righteousness is known and we can share in His Glory.
Love,
Gretchen