Romans 3:1-8

Romans 3:1–8 shows us how God by his grace changes the evil fate of his disobedient people. At first glance, this passage can almost seem to be a digression, where Paul pauses to answer some objections that may arise to what he has said so far. And Paul does do that. But this is not just an abstract discussion that we could skip if we were pressed for time. By answering these objections, Paul advances the story, and points us to the gospel solution for our unfaithfulness.[1] Therefore, let us give our attention today to this passage which shows us how God’s faithfulness in the gospel triumphs over our unfaithfulness.

[1] For the various approaches, see the commentaries. I am indebted to Wright, Paul and the Faithfulness of God, 836–41, for this approach.