sinned in the law

Introduction

The eight topics in heading are so interwoven, in the first three chapters of Romans, that they will all be dealt with within this Theme Study chapter.

Romans 2:12-13 For as many as have sinned without law shall also perish without law: and as many as have sinned in the law shall be judged by the law; 13 (For not the hearers of the law are just before God, but the doers of the law shall be justified.

For as many as have sinned without law shall also perish without law
and as many as have sinned in the law shall be judged by the law
For not the hearers of the law are just before God, but the doers of the law shall be justified

It is virtually impossible to understand much of what Paul states in Romans 2 without proper context. Here are 3 Pauline truths that allow a correct interpretation of Romans 2 and its immediate surrounding chapters.

Paul builds a case of how both Jew and Gentile had become guilty before God regardless of the Jew being recipients of the Mosaic Covenant.
Paul discerns between God justifying the circumcision ‘by faith’ and the uncircumcision ‘through faith’ (Rom 3:29-30).
Paul shows God transitioning from one faith to another faith to come; from the ‘faith of God’, to the ‘faith of Christ’.

Prelude to Romans 1

At the time of Noah things degenerated to such a degree, after the fall of Adam, that the LORD determined to start all over again.

Genesis 6:5-7 And GOD saw that the wickedness of man was great in the earth, and that every imagination of the thoughts of his heart was only evil continually. 6 And it repented the LORD that he had made man on the earth, and it grieved him at his heart. 7 And the LORD said, I will destroy man whom I have created from the face of the earth; both man, and beast, and the creeping thing, and the fowls of the air; for it repenteth me that I have made them.

for it repenteth me that I have made them

There was but one man living who found favor with God and Noah became heir of the righteousness which is ‘by faith’.

Genesis 6:8-9 But Noah found grace in the eyes of the LORD. 9 These are the generations of Noah: Noah was a just man and perfect in his generations, and Noah walked with God.

Noah found grace in the eyes of the LORD
Noah was a just man
and perfect in his generations
and Noah walked with God

Hebrews 11:7 By faith Noah, being warned of God of things not seen as yet, moved with fear, prepared an ark to the saving of his house; by the which he condemned the world, and became heir of the righteousness which is by faith.

and became heir of the righteousness which is by faith

Noah became heir of the righteousness which is ‘by faith’ on this side of the flood. This righteousness, which is ‘by faith’, was carried over into the nation of Israel under the Mosaic Covenant and through the Acts period under the kingdom gospel. The circumcision, being justified ‘by faith’, is part of Paul’s discussion in Romans 3:29-30.

Sinned Without the Law

As Many as Have Sinned Without Law

The human nature being such as it is, having been inherited from Adam, willfully (as did Adam) turned its back on the one true God, after the flood, as described in Romans 1.

Romans 1:18-32 For the wrath of God is revealed from heaven against all ungodliness and unrighteousness of men, who hold the truth in unrighteousness; 19 Because that which may be known of God is manifest in them; for God hath shewed it unto them. 20 For the invisible things of him from the creation of the world are clearly seen, being understood by the things that are made, even his eternal power and Godhead; so that they are without excuse: 21 Because that, when they knew God, they glorified him not as God, neither were thankful; but became vain in their imaginations, and their foolish heart was darkened. 22 Professing themselves to be wise, they became fools, 23 And changed the glory of the uncorruptible God into an image made like to corruptible man, and to birds, and fourfooted beasts, and creeping things. 24 Wherefore God also gave them up to uncleanness through the lusts of their own hearts, to dishonour their own bodies between themselves: 25 Who changed the truth of God into a lie, and worshipped and served the creature more than the Creator, who is blessed for ever. Amen. 26 For this cause God gave them up unto vile affections: for even their women did change the natural use into that which is against nature: 27 And likewise also the men, leaving the natural use of the woman, burned in their lust one toward another; men with men working that which is unseemly, and receiving in themselves that recompence of their error which was meet. 28 And even as they did not like to retain God in their knowledge, God gave them over to a reprobate mind, to do those things which are not convenient; 29 Being filled with all unrighteousness, fornication, wickedness, covetousness, maliciousness; full of envy, murder, debate, deceit, malignity; whisperers, 30 Backbiters, haters of God, despiteful, proud, boasters, inventors of evil things, disobedient to parents, 31 Without understanding, covenantbreakers, without natural affection, implacable, unmerciful: 32 Who knowing the judgment of God, that they which commit such things are worthy of death, not only do the same, but have pleasure in them that do them.

Because that, when they knew God, they glorified him not as God, neither were thankful; but became vain in their imaginations, and their foolish heart was darkened
Professing themselves to be wise, they became fools
And changed the glory of the uncorruptible God into an image made like to corruptible man, and to birds, and fourfooted beasts, and creeping things
Wherefore God also gave them up to uncleanness through the lusts of their own hearts, to dishonour their own bodies between themselves
Who changed the truth of God into a lie, and worshipped and served the creature more than the Creator
for even their women did change the natural use into that which is against nature
And likewise also the men, leaving the natural use of the woman, burned in their lust one toward another; men with men working that which is unseemly
And even as they did not like to retain God in their knowledge, God gave them over to a reprobate mind, to do those things which are not convenient
Being filled with all unrighteousness, fornication, wickedness, covetousness, maliciousness; full of envy, murder, debate, deceit, malignity; whisperers
Backbiters, haters of God, despiteful, proud, boasters, inventors of evil things, disobedient to parents
Without understanding, covenantbreakers, without natural affection, implacable, unmerciful
Who knowing the judgment of God, that they which commit such things are worthy of death, not only do the same, but have pleasure in them that do them

The striking thing about this progression, of ungodliness and unrighteousness, is the willfulness in moving away from the one true God, while yet attributing the attributes and glory of that one true God, to images of man, birds, fourfooted beasts and creeping things.

God then chose Abraham, a man living ‘by faith’, to establish a people and a land unto Himself.

Hebrews 11:8-9 By faith Abraham, when he was called to go out into a place which he should after receive for an inheritance, obeyed; and he went out, not knowing whither he went. 9 By faith he sojourned in the land of promise, as in a strange country, dwelling in tabernacles with Isaac and Jacob, the heirs with him of the same promise:

By faith Abraham, when he was called to go out into a place which he should after receive for an inheritance, obeyed; and he went out, not knowing whither he went
By faith he sojourned in the land of promise, as in a strange country, dwelling in tabernacles with Isaac and Jacob, the heirs with him of the same promise

Before the Mosaic Covenant ever showed up, man proved his sinful nature both before and after the flood... "Wherefore, as by one man sin entered into the world, and death by sin; and so death passed upon all men, for that all have sinned: 13 (For until the law sin was in the world: but sin is not imputed when there is no law. 14 Nevertheless death reigned from Adam to Moses, even over them that had not sinned after the similitude of Adam's transgression, who is the figure of him that was to come." Romans 5:12-14

Have you ever questioned how certain OT saints seemed to have gotten away with in some of the things they did? Why didn't either Judah or Tamar receive consequence, of their action (Gen 38:6-26), as spelled out under law? Sin is not imputed when there is no law!

Sinned in the Law

As Many As Have Sinned in the Law

Exodus 19, is record of the establishment of a nation with God’s intent, for that nation, in being a kingdom of priests and a holy nation to be favored above all people. Stipulation was given to be in agreement with and obedient to a covenant to which the people accepted.

Exodus 19:3-8 And Moses went up unto God, and the LORD called unto him out of the mountain, saying, Thus shalt thou say to the house of Jacob, and tell the children of Israel; 4 Ye have seen what I did unto the Egyptians, and how I bare you on eagles' wings, and brought you unto myself. 5 Now therefore, if ye will obey my voice indeed, and keep my covenant, then ye shall be a peculiar treasure unto me above all people: for all the earth is mine: 6 And ye shall be unto me a kingdom of priests, and an holy nation. These are the words which thou shalt speak unto the children of Israel. 7 And Moses came and called for the elders of the people, and laid before their faces all these words which the LORD commanded him. 8 And all the people answered together, and said, All that the LORD hath spoken we will do. And Moses returned the words of the people unto the LORD.

Now therefore, if ye will obey my voice indeed, and keep my covenant, then ye shall be a peculiar treasure unto me above all people: for all the earth is mine
And ye shall be unto me a kingdom of priests, and an holy nation. These are the words which thou shalt speak unto the children of Israel
And Moses came and called for the elders of the people, and laid before their faces all these words which the LORD commanded him
And all the people answered together, and said, All that the LORD hath spoken we will do
And Moses returned the words of the people unto the LORD

This covenant of commandments was Israel’s righteousness to be lived out ‘by faith’, in order to remain in the land without repercussion.

Deuteronomy 6:13-14 Thou shalt fear the LORD thy God, and serve him, and shalt swear by his name. 14 Ye shall not go after other gods, of the gods of the people which are round about you;

Thou shalt fear the LORD thy God, and serve him
Ye shall not go after other gods, of the gods of the people which are round about you

Deuteronomy 6:24-25 And the LORD commanded us to do all these statutes, to fear the LORD our God, for our good always, that he might preserve us alive, as it is at this day. 25 And it shall be our righteousness, if we observe to do all these commandments before the LORD our God, as he hath commanded us.

the LORD commanded us to do all these statutes, to fear the LORD our God, for our good always, that he might preserve us alive, as it is at this day
And it shall be our righteousness, if we observe to do all these commandments before the LORD our God, as he hath commanded us

In Romans 2 & 3, Paul has built a case demonstrating that the Gentile, without the law, as well as the Jew with the law, have sinned and come short of the glory of God… "For all have sinned, and come short of the glory of God;" Romans 3:23

It is very enlightening to put into context the verses Paul quotes, from the Old Testament, in coming to this final deduction. Also, there is great need to correct a false interpretation, made by most commentaries, preachers and teachers, regarding Paul’s conclusion.

Paul's Argument For All Have Sinned and Come Short of The Glory of God

Sinned Without Law

Sinned in the Law

recipients of Moses' Law

Old Testament Scripture

Psalm 14:1-7 To the chief Musician, A Psalm of David. The fool hath said in his heart, There is no God. They are corrupt, they have done abominable works, there is none that doeth good. 2 The LORD looked down from heaven upon the children of men, to see if there were any that did understand, and seek God. 3 They are all gone aside, they are all together become filthy: there is none that doeth good, no, not one. 4 Have all the workers of iniquity no knowledge? who eat up my people as they eat bread, and call not upon the LORD. 5 There were they in great fear: for God is in the generation of the righteous. 6 Ye have shamed the counsel of the poor, because the LORD is his refuge. 7 Oh that the salvation of Israel were come out of Zion! when the LORD bringeth back the captivity of his people, Jacob shall rejoice, and Israel shall be glad.

Psalm 5:8-10 Lead me, O LORD, in thy righteousness because of mine enemies; make thy way straight before my face. 9 For there is no faithfulness in their mouth; their inward part is very wickedness; their throat is an open sepulchre; they flatter with their tongue. 10 Destroy thou them, O God; let them fall by their own counsels; cast them out in the multitude of their transgressions; for they have rebelled against thee.

Psalm 10:4-7 The wicked, through the pride of his countenance, will not seek after God: God is not in all his thoughts. 5 His ways are always grievous; thy judgments are far above out of his sight: as for all his enemies, he puffeth at them. 6 He hath said in his heart, I shall not be moved: for I shall never be in adversity. 7 His mouth is full of cursing and deceit and fraud: under his tongue is mischief and vanity.

Isaiah 59:1-7 Behold, the LORD'S hand is not shortened, that it cannot save; neither his ear heavy, that it cannot hear: 2 But your iniquities have separated between you and your God, and your sins have hid his face from you, that he will not hear. 3 For your hands are defiled with blood, and your fingers with iniquity; your lips have spoken lies, your tongue hath muttered perverseness. 4 None calleth for justice, nor any pleadeth for truth: they trust in vanity, and speak lies; they conceive mischief, and bring forth iniquity. 5 They hatch cockatrice' eggs, and weave the spider's web: he that eateth of their eggs dieth, and that which is crushed breaketh out into a viper. 6 Their webs shall not become garments, neither shall they cover themselves with their works: their works are works of iniquity, and the act of violence is in their hands. 7 Their feet run to evil, and they make haste to shed innocent blood: their thoughts are thoughts of iniquity; wasting and destruction are in their paths.

Isaiah 59:1-8 Behold, the LORD'S hand is not shortened, that it cannot save; neither his ear heavy, that it cannot hear: 2 But your iniquities have separated between you and your God, and your sins have hid his face from you, that he will not hear. 3 For your hands are defiled with blood, and your fingers with iniquity; your lips have spoken lies, your tongue hath muttered perverseness. 4 None calleth for justice, nor any pleadeth for truth: they trust in vanity, and speak lies; they conceive mischief, and bring forth iniquity. 5 They hatch cockatrice' eggs, and weave the spider's web: he that eateth of their eggs dieth, and that which is crushed breaketh out into a viper. 6 Their webs shall not become garments, neither shall they cover themselves with their works: their works are works of iniquity, and the act of violence is in their hands. 7 Their feet run to evil, and they make haste to shed innocent blood: their thoughts are thoughts of iniquity; wasting and destruction are in their paths. 8 The way of peace they know not; and there is no judgment in their goings: they have made them crooked paths: whosoever goeth therein shall not know peace.

Psalm 36:1 To the chief Musician, A Psalm of David the servant of the LORD. The transgression of the wicked saith within my heart, that there is no fear of God before his eyes.

Paul’s References

Romans 3:9-12 What then? are we better than they? No, in no wise: for we have before proved both Jews and Gentiles, that they are all under sin; 10 As it is written, There is none righteous, no, not one: 11 There is none that understandeth, there is none that seeketh after God. 12 They are all gone out of the way, they are together become unprofitable; there is none that doeth good, no, not one.

Romans 3:13 Their throat is an open sepulchre; with their tongues they have used deceit; the poison of asps is under their lips:

Romans 3:14 Whose mouth is full of cursing and bitterness:

Romans 3:15-16 Their feet are swift to shed blood: 16 Destruction and misery are in their ways:

Romans 3:17 And the way of peace have they not known:

Romans 3:18 There is no fear of God before their eyes.

Paul's Deductions to All Have Sinned...

The focus, of Paul’s quotations, is on David’s enemies as well as on the wicked represented, not only of the nations around about Israel, but also within the nation of Israel herself! The words ‘wicked’ and ‘wickedness’, are found 29 times in the book of Ezekiel with focus mostly on Israel.

Ezekiel 5:6 And she hath changed my judgments into wickedness more than the nations, and my statutes more than the countries that are round about her: for they have refused my judgments and my statutes, they have not walked in them.

she hath changed my judgments into wickedness more than the nations
and my statutes more than the countries that are round about her
for they have refused my judgments and my statutes, they have not walked in them

The condition of Israel’s religious hierarchy at the time of John the Baptist, the Lord Jesus Christ and through to the end of the Acts period, are summed up by John, Jesus and Paul.

John the Baptist

Matthew 3:5-10 Then went out to him Jerusalem, and all Judaea, and all the region round about Jordan, 6 And were baptized of him in Jordan, confessing their sins. 7 But when he saw many of the Pharisees and Sadducees come to his baptism, he said unto them, O generation of vipers, who hath warned you to flee from the wrath to come? 8 Bring forth therefore fruits meet for repentance: 9 And think not to say within yourselves, We have Abraham to our father: for I say unto you, that God is able of these stones to raise up children unto Abraham. 10 And now also the axe is laid unto the root of the trees: therefore every tree which bringeth not forth good fruit is hewn down, and cast into the fire.

generation of vipers, who hath warned you to flee from the wrath to come?

Jesus

Matthew 23:31-37 Wherefore ye be witnesses unto yourselves, that ye are the children of them which killed the prophets. 32 Fill ye up then the measure of your fathers. 33 Ye serpents, ye generation of vipers, how can ye escape the damnation of hell? 34 Wherefore, behold, I send unto you prophets, and wise men, and scribes: and some of them ye shall kill and crucify; and some of them shall ye scourge in your synagogues, and persecute them from city to city: 35 That upon you may come all the righteous blood shed upon the earth, from the blood of righteous Abel unto the blood of Zacharias son of Barachias, whom ye slew between the temple and the altar. 36 Verily I say unto you, All these things shall come upon this generation. 37 O Jerusalem, Jerusalem, thou that killest the prophets, and stonest them which are sent unto thee, how often would I have gathered thy children together, even as a hen gathereth her chickens under her wings, and ye would not!

Ye serpents, ye generation of vipers, how can ye escape the damnation of hell?
That upon you may come all the righteous blood shed upon the earth, from the blood of righteous Abel unto the blood of Zacharias son of Barachias, whom ye slew between the temple and the altar
Verily I say unto you, All these things shall come upon this generation

Paul

Acts 28:23-27 And when they had appointed him a day, there came many to him into his lodging; to whom he expounded and testified the kingdom of God, persuading them concerning Jesus, both out of the law of Moses, and out of the prophets, from morning till evening. 24 And some believed the things which were spoken, and some believed not. 25 And when they agreed not among themselves, they departed, after that Paul had spoken one word, Well spake the Holy Ghost by Esaias the prophet unto our fathers, 26 Saying, Go unto this people, and say, Hearing ye shall hear, and shall not understand; and seeing ye shall see, and not perceive: 27 For the heart of this people is waxed gross, and their ears are dull of hearing, and their eyes have they closed; lest they should see with their eyes, and hear with their ears, and understand with their heart, and should be converted, and I should heal them.

Paul had spoken one word, Well spake the Holy Ghost by Esaias the prophet unto our fathers
Saying, Go unto this people, and say, Hearing ye shall hear, and shall not understand; and seeing ye shall see, and not perceive
For the heart of this people is waxed gross, and their ears are dull of hearing, and their eyes have they closed

Statements of Overreach

An overreach, by many, on what Paul has done in proving both Gentile and Jew guilty before God, is a broad stoke of a brush painted on everyone! Let it be clear that there is absolutely no question that all have sinned and come short of the glory of God and Jesus nails the activity within the human heart… “For out of the heart proceed evil thoughts, murders, adulteries, fornications, thefts, false witness, blasphemies:” Matthew 15:19 However, to claim that none understandeth and none seeketh God and all gone out of the way becoming unprofitable and none that doeth good, no, not one, simply defies examples that can be traced clear back to Noah himself, who… “found grace in the eyes of the LORD because he was a just man and perfect in his generations, and Noah walked with God." (Gen 6:8-9).

When Paul’s quotations are taken out of context, then the following examples of Zacharias and Elisabeth, a centurion, Cornelius’ household, Sergius Paulus and Gentiles at Antioch in Pisidia, are virtually impossible to either understand or explain.

Zacharias and Elisabeth

Luke 1:5-6 There was in the days of Herod, the king of Judaea, a certain priest named Zacharias, of the course of Abia: and his wife was of the daughters of Aaron, and her name was Elisabeth. 6 And they were both righteous before God, walking in all the commandments and ordinances of the Lord blameless.

they were both righteous before God, walking in all the commandments and ordinances of the Lord blameless

The centurion

Matthew 8:6-10 And saying, Lord, my servant lieth at home sick of the palsy, grievously tormented. 7 And Jesus saith unto him, I will come and heal him. 8 The centurion answered and said, Lord, I am not worthy that thou shouldest come under my roof: but speak the word only, and my servant shall be healed. 9 For I am a man under authority, having soldiers under me: and I say to this man, Go, and he goeth; and to another, Come, and he cometh; and to my servant, Do this, and he doeth it. 10 When Jesus heard it, he marvelled, and said to them that followed, Verily I say unto you, I have not found so great faith, no, not in Israel.

When Jesus heard it, he marvelled, and said to them that followed, Verily I say unto you, I have not found so great faith, no, not in Israel

Cornelius’ Household

Acts 10:1-2 There was a certain man in Caesarea called Cornelius, a centurion of the band called the Italian band, 2 A devout man, and one that feared God with all his house, which gave much alms to the people, and prayed to God alway.

A devout man, and one that feared God with all his house, which gave much alms to the people, and prayed to God alway

Sergius Paulus

Acts 13:7 Which was with the deputy of the country, Sergius Paulus, a prudent man; who called for Barnabas and Saul, and desired to hear the word of God.

a prudent man; who called for Barnabas and Saul, and desired to hear the word of God

Ye that fear God

Acts 13:16 Then Paul stood up, and beckoning with his hand said, Men of Israel, and ye that fear God, give audience.

and ye that fear God, give audience

Peter was sent to the household of Cornelius to …”tell thee words, whereby thou and all thy house shall be saved.” (Acts 11:14). The very thing that triggered this visit by Peter to this Gentile household was… “He saw in a vision evidently about the ninth hour of the day an angel of God coming in to him, and saying unto him, Cornelius. 4 And when he looked on him, he was afraid, and said, What is it, Lord? And he said unto him, Thy prayers and thine alms are come up for a memorial before God.” (Acts 10:3-4)

Thy prayers and thine alms are come up for a memorial before God

In Acts 16, we have Paul seeing a vision of a man, of Macedonia, praying Paul would come and help, as well as a woman, who worshipped God, that ends up having the Lord opening her heart to receive the words spoken of Paul.

Acts 16:9-10 And a vision appeared to Paul in the night; There stood a man of Macedonia, and prayed him, saying, Come over into Macedonia, and help us. 10 And after he had seen the vision, immediately we endeavoured to go into Macedonia, assuredly gathering that the Lord had called us for to preach the gospel unto them.

Acts 16:14 And a certain woman named Lydia, a seller of purple, of the city of Thyatira, which worshipped God, heard us: whose heart the Lord opened, that she attended unto the things which were spoken of Paul.

The word of God doesn’t contradict, but taking scripture out of context not only brings out appearance of contradictions, but also false interpretations. False interpretations leads to confusion! We do know that... "So then faith cometh by hearing, and hearing by the word of God." Romans 10:17

On the flip side of this, we have the actual conversion of Paul who by his own testimony… “And I thank Christ Jesus our Lord, who hath enabled me, for that he counted me faithful, putting me into the ministry; 13 Who was before a blasphemer, and a persecutor, and injurious: but I obtained mercy, because I did it ignorantly in unbelief.” 1 Timothy 1:12-13

Who was before a blasphemer, and a persecutor, and injurious
but I obtained mercy, because I did it ignorantly in unbelief

Here we’re reminded that Paul’s conversion was not only unique, but set a precedence from there on out!

1 Timothy 1:15-16 This is a faithful saying, and worthy of all acceptation, that Christ Jesus came into the world to save sinners; of whom I am chief. 16 Howbeit for this cause I obtained mercy, that in me first Jesus Christ might shew forth all longsuffering, for a pattern to them which should hereafter believe on him to life everlasting.

Howbeit for this cause I obtained mercy:

that in me first
Jesus Christ might shew forth all longsuffering
for a pattern to them
which should hereafter believe on him to life everlasting

Very few commentaries recognize this important benchmark in the history of the church!

Hearer versus Doers of Law

Statements of Overreach

Hearers of the Law Versus Doers of the Law

Romans 2:1-15 Therefore thou art inexcusable, O man, whosoever thou art that judgest: for wherein thou judgest another, thou condemnest thyself; for thou that judgest doest the same things. 2 But we are sure that the judgment of God is according to truth against them which commit such things. 3 And thinkest thou this, O man, that judgest them which do such things, and doest the same, that thou shalt escape the judgment of God? 4 Or despisest thou the riches of his goodness and forbearance and longsuffering; not knowing that the goodness of God leadeth thee to repentance?

And thinkest thou this, O man, that judgest them which do such things
and doest the same, that thou shalt escape the judgment of God?

A point that MUST be made here, that is most often overlooked, is that Paul is building up a case regarding the righteousness of God ‘then’ as compared to ‘now’! Romans 2 is a reflection back when God judged man according to one’s walk ‘by faith’; a righteous walk based on faithful obedience.

Romans 3:21 But now the righteousness of God without the law is manifested, being witnessed by the law and the prophets;

But now…

Paul makes a case that there were Gentiles more ‘righteous’, manifested by their actions governed by conscience, than the Jew who rested in the law making their boast of God.

Romans 2:17 Behold, thou art called a Jew, and restest in the law, and makest thy boast of God…

God is a fair judge and will judge fairly those, under the OT, though this principal be denied by those that don’t understand justification ‘by faith’, that was prior to justification ‘through faith’.

Romans 2:5-15 But after thy hardness and impenitent heart treasurest up unto thyself wrath against the day of wrath and revelation of the righteous judgment of God; 6 Who will render to every man according to his deeds: 7 To them who by patient continuance in well doing seek for glory and honour and immortality, eternal life: 8 But unto them that are contentious, and do not obey the truth, but obey unrighteousness, indignation and wrath, 9 Tribulation and anguish, upon every soul of man that doeth evil, of the Jew first, and also of the Gentile; 10 But glory, honour, and peace, to every man that worketh good, to the Jew first, and also to the Gentile: 11 For there is no respect of persons with God. 12 For as many as have sinned without law shall also perish without law: and as many as have sinned in the law shall be judged by the law; 13 (For not the hearers of the law are just before God, but the doers of the law shall be justified. 14 For when the Gentiles, which have not the law, do by nature the things contained in the law, these, having not the law, are a law unto themselves: 15 Which shew the work of the law written in their hearts, their conscience also bearing witness, and their thoughts the mean while accusing or else excusing one another;)

Who will render to every man according to his deeds
To them who by patient continuance in well doing seek for glory and honour and immortality, eternal life
But unto them that are contentious, and do not obey the truth, but obey unrighteousness, indignation and wrath
Tribulation and anguish, upon every soul of man that doeth evil, of the Jew first, and also of the Gentile
But glory, honour, and peace, to every man that worketh good, to the Jew first, and also to the Gentile
For there is no respect of persons with God
For as many as have sinned without law shall also perish without law:
And as many as have sinned in the law shall be judged by the law
For not the hearers of the law are just before God, but the doers of the law shall be justified
For when the Gentiles, which have not the law, do by nature the things contained in the law, these, having not the law, are a law unto themselves
Which shew the work of the law written in their hearts, their conscience also bearing witness

The above passage does not and cannot apply today! Trying to force these principals today, regarding one’s justification, leads to nothing but contradiction and confusion.

Doers of Law Be Justified A

The Doers of the Law Shall Be Justified

It is unbelievable the amount of dispute and denial I’ve encountered, in my lifetime, over the validity of this next verse!

Romans 2:13 (For not the hearers of the law are just before God, but the doers of the law shall be justified.

Unless rightly dividing the word of truth, in distinguishing between justification ‘by faith’ from ‘through faith’ and the ‘faith of God’ from that of the faith to come, the ‘faith of Christ’, the scripture contradicts itself here.

doers of the law shall be justified

Romans 2:13 (For not the hearers of the law are just before God, but the doers of the law shall be justified.

For not the hearers of the law are just before God
but the doers of the law shall be justified

by the works of the law shall no flesh be justified

Galatians 2:16 Knowing that a man is not justified by the works of the law, but by the faith of Jesus Christ, even we have believed in Jesus Christ, that we might be justified by the faith of Christ, and not by the works of the law: for by the works of the law shall no flesh be justified.

Knowing that a man is not justified by the works of the law
for by the works of the law shall no flesh be justified

As stated earlier in this chapter, Noah became the heir of the righteousness which is ‘by faith’, after the flood.

and became heir of the righteousness which is by faith

This ‘by faith’ principal, on behalf of man, towards the ‘faithfulness of God’, is then seen evident in the life of Abraham.

Hebrews 11:8 By faith Abraham, when he was called to go out into a place which he should after receive for an inheritance, obeyed; and he went out, not knowing whither he went.

By faith Abraham, when he was called to go out...
obeyed; and he went out, not knowing whither he went

This same and continuing principal is immediately adopted in the establishment of the Mosaic Covenant, as the law became the righteousness of God, preceding the righteousness of God found in Christ.

Romans 10:4-5 For Christ is the end of the law for righteousness to every one that believeth. 5 For Moses describeth the righteousness which is of the law, That the man which doeth those things shall live by them.

For Christ is the end of the law for righteousness

The OT verse that clearly demonstrates this righteousness ‘by faith’, under law, is found in Habakkuk 2.

Habakkuk 2:4 Behold, his soul which is lifted up is not upright in him: but the just shall live by his faith.

but the just shall live by his faith

At the core definition of ‘by' faith, is ‘his' faith, which speaks to a man’s faithfulness in relationship to the faithfulness of God.

Hebrews 11:6 But without faith it is impossible to please him: for he that cometh to God must believe that he is, and that he is a rewarder of them that diligently seek him.

But without faith it is impossible to please him:
for he that cometh to God must believe that he is
and that he is a rewarder of them that diligently seek him

The context, in which Habakkuk 2:4 is used by Paul in Galatians 3, regarding that no man is justified by the law in the sight of God, speaks volumes! As clearly pointed out in chapter titled "obedience of faith", Paul is speaking in the present tense, contrasting the faith that was to that faith which was to come. In emphasizing once again that the law is not ‘of faith’, but via faithful obedience/works, Paul references Habakkuk 2:4, in eliminating the pronoun ‘his’!

The just shall live by 'his' faith

Habakkuk 2:4 Behold, his soul which is lifted up is not upright in him: but the just shall live by his faith.

but the just shall live by his faith

The just shall live by faith

Galatians 3:11-12 But that no man is justified by the law in the sight of God, it is evident: for, The just shall live by faith. 12 And the law is not of faith: but, The man that doeth them shall live in them.

The just shall live by faith

This omission of the pronoun ‘his’, reflects back to God justifying the heathen ‘through faith’ and they which be ‘of faith’ are blessed with faithful Abraham!

Galatians 3:8-9 And the scripture, foreseeing that God would justify the heathen through faith, preached before the gospel unto Abraham, saying, In thee shall all nations be blessed. 9 So then they which be of faith are blessed with faithful Abraham.

the scripture, foreseeing that God would justify the heathen through faith
So then they which be of faith are blessed with faithful Abraham

Knowing that a man is not justified by the works of the law
but by the faith of Jesus Christ
even we have believed in Jesus Christ
that we might be justified by the faith of Christ
for by the works of the law shall no flesh be justified

In closing this segment, on the ‘doers of the law shall be justified’, we’re again reminded of Israel’s failure under law.

Romans 9:31-32 But Israel, which followed after the law of righteousness, hath not attained to the law of righteousness. 32 Wherefore? Because they sought it not by faith, but as it were by the works of the law. For they stumbled at that stumblingstone;

Because they sought it not by faith

Law of Works

Romans 3:27 Where is boasting then? It is excluded. By what law? of works?

By what law? of works?

Why is a concept of justification, by the law of works, so vehemently denied by so many? Denied in particular by some whom claim to understand salvation by grace? There is a very simple threefold answer. The first, is that which is stated over and over within the theme of this website and that is being or not being able to discern the difference between God justifying the circumcision ‘by faith’ and the uncircumcision ‘through faith’. The second, is unfamiliarity with the bible! I once asked a preacher, who was a potential candidate for a church, how did an OT saint get saved? After thinking for a while, quoted Ephesians 2:8-9, which is directed to converted non-covenanted Gentiles. Third, is rejection of the King James Bible; all translations don’t teach same doctrine! All of these and other reasons, that can be given, are dealt with extensively throughout the Theme Study, so focus here will be staying within the confines of first three chapters of Romans.

We have demonstrated, in this chapter, that Paul has built a case in showing that both Jew and Gentile are guilty before God. The Gentile, who wasn’t given the law and the Jew that was. How exactly does this concept, of ‘works’, enter the picture in relationship to law? Simply put, Israel’s righteousness was based on faithful obedience to a set of commandments!

Exodus 19:8 And all the people answered together, and said, All that the LORD hath spoken we will do. And Moses returned the words of the people unto the LORD.

All that the LORD hath spoken we will do

Deuteronomy 6:25 And it shall be our righteousness, if we observe to do all these commandments before the LORD our God, as he hath commanded us.

it shall be our righteousness
if we observe to do all these commandments before the LORD our God, as he hath commanded us

Faithful obedience, to rules and regulations, was mandatory to remain in favor of the LORD, as a nation and to remain in the congregation, as an individual!

Exodus 18:19-20 Hearken now unto my voice, I will give thee counsel, and God shall be with thee: Be thou for the people to God-ward, that thou mayest bring the causes unto God: 20 And thou shalt teach them ordinances and laws, and shalt shew them the way wherein they must walk, and the work that they must do.

And thou shalt teach them ordinances and laws
and shalt shew them the way wherein they must walk
and the work that they must do

Imputed righteousness, at this time, was based on faithful obedience to God’s set of instructions and this faithful obedience is simply, as well as scripturally, defined as ‘works’... the WAY wherein they MUST WALK and the WORK that they MUST DO.

Paul couldn’t be any clearer in pointing out that a remnant of Israel was being saved, without works, during the Acts period and yet this scripture is twisted, by many, in trying to make Paul saying something completely different than what’s clearly stated.

Romans 11:5-6 Even so then at this present time also there is a remnant according to the election of grace. 6 And if by grace, then is it no more of works: otherwise grace is no more grace. But if it be of works, then is it no more grace: otherwise work is no more work.

at this present time also there is a remnant according to the election of grace
And if by grace, then is it no more of works
otherwise grace is no more grace
But if it be of works, then is it no more grace
otherwise work is no more work

And if by grace, then is it NO MORE OF WORKS!

Law of Works

Law of Faith

But now... at this time...

Romans 3:26-27 To declare, I say, at this time his righteousness: that he might be just, and the justifier of him which believeth in Jesus. 27 Where is boasting then? It is excluded. By what law? of works? Nay: but by the law of faith.

To declare, I say, at this time his righteousness
that he might be just, and the justifier of him which believeth in Jesus
Where is boasting then? It is excluded
By what law? of works?
Nay: but by the law of faith

One law, the ‘law of works’, is now being replaced by another law, the ‘law of faith’, in which the previous law, the ‘law of works’, is NO LONGER applicable as it previously was!

Romans 3:21-22 But now the righteousness of God without the law is manifested, being witnessed by the law and the prophets; 22 Even the righteousness of God which is by faith of Jesus Christ unto all and upon all them that believe: for there is no difference:

But now the righteousness of God without the law is manifested
being witnessed by the law and the prophets

The righteousness of God under the law, the Mosaic Covenant, is now replaced with the righteousness of God, without the law, by 'faith of Jesus Christ', upon all them that believe, which now includes both Gentile and Jew that’s been proven guilty. The ‘faith of God’, that was essential in the ‘by faith’ relationship with man living ‘by faith’, is now being replaced with the 'faith of Christ' to those who believe in Christ, which is justification that is ‘of faith’.

We can clearly see Paul’s argument unfold in the following passage.

Romans 3:19-28 Now we know that what things soever the law saith, it saith to them who are under the law: that every mouth may be stopped, and all the world may become guilty before God. 20 Therefore by the deeds of the law there shall no flesh be justified in his sight: for by the law is the knowledge of sin. 21 But now the righteousness of God without the law is manifested, being witnessed by the law and the prophets; 22 Even the righteousness of God which is by faith of Jesus Christ unto all and upon all them that believe: for there is no difference: 23 For all have sinned, and come short of the glory of God; 24 Being justified freely by his grace through the redemption that is in Christ Jesus: 25 Whom God hath set forth to be a propitiation through faith in his blood, to declare his righteousness for the remission of sins that are past, through the forbearance of God; 26 To declare, I say, at this time his righteousness: that he might be just, and the justifier of him which believeth in Jesus. 27 Where is boasting then? It is excluded. By what law? of works? Nay: but by the law of faith. 28 Therefore we conclude that a man is justified by faith without the deeds of the law.

Now we know that what things soever the law saith, it saith to them who are under the law (Then)
that every mouth may be stopped, and all the world may become guilty before God (Now Jew & Gentile)
Therefore by the deeds of the law there shall no flesh be justified in his sight (Now!)
for by the law is the knowledge of sin (Then & Now)
But now the righteousness of God without the law is manifested (Now!)
Even the righteousness of God which is by faith 'of' Jesus Christ unto all and upon all them that believe (Now!)
To declare, I say, at this time his righteousness: that he might be just, and the justifier of him which believeth in Jesus
Where is boasting then? It is excluded. By what law? of works? Nay: but by the law of faith (Now!) (Now!)
Therefore we conclude that a man is justified by faith without the deeds of the law (Now!)

Whenever Paul declares that one is justified ‘by faith’, it MUST be qualified in context! Paul’s declaration that a man is justified ‘by faith’, without the deeds of the law, is defined in Romans 10 as being… "For Christ is the end of the law for righteousness to every one that believeth. 5 For Moses describeth the righteousness which is of the law, That the man which doeth those things shall live by them. 6 But the righteousness which is of faith speaketh on this wise, Say not in thine heart, Who shall ascend into heaven? (that is, to bring Christ down from above:) 7 Or, Who shall descend into the deep? (that is, to bring up Christ again from the dead.) 8 But what saith it? The word is nigh thee, even in thy mouth, and in thy heart: that is, the word of faith, which we preach; 9 That if thou shalt confess with thy mouth the Lord Jesus, and shalt believe in thine heart that God hath raised him from the dead, thou shalt be saved. 10 For with the heart man believeth unto righteousness; and with the mouth confession is made unto salvation." Romans 10:4-10

But the righteousness which is of faith speaketh on this wise…
The word is nigh thee, even in thy mouth, and in thy heart
that is, the word of faith, which we preach

Being justified by faith in Christ Jesus = Not being justified by the deeds of the Law

Not being justified by the deeds of the Law = Righteousness which is ‘of faith’

Righteousness which is ‘of faith’ ≠ Righteousness which is of the Law

God justifying the uncircumcision 'through faith' = Righteousness which is ‘of faith’

In other words... if one testifies as to being saved ‘by faith’ today, that statement in of itself is virtually meaningless unless qualified! The early Acts Jewish Christians (the circumcision) were saved ‘by faith’, but had to believe and be baptized, in the name of Jesus Christ for the remission of sins (Mk 16:16; Acts 2:38). Righteousness, which is 'of faith', is faith on faith! One's faith in the faith of Christ... "Even the righteousness of God which is by faith of Jesus Christ unto all and upon all them that believe: for there is no difference:" Romans 3:22

The contrast between then and now, relating to the means and method, in obtaining the righteousness of God, is clearly pointed out in Romans 3:28... Therefore we conclude that a man is justified by faith without the deeds of the law.

Under the law, the means of obtaining the righteousness of God was the law. The method was 'by faith'! But now, at this time, the means of obtaining the righteousness of God is by the faith of Jesus Christ. The method is of faith; faith on faith. One's faith in the faith of Jesus Christ!

Law of Faith

Being Justified Freely

By his grace... the gift by grace

Romans 3:24 Being justified freely by his grace through the redemption that is in Christ Jesus:

Being justified freely
by his grace
through the redemption that is in Christ Jesus

The mere fact that Paul is now repeatedly talking about something being offered freely and by grace, in the beginning chapters of Romans, tells us that a dramatic change has and is being taken place that WASN’T in place before!

Romans 3:21-31 But now the righteousness of God without the law is manifested, being witnessed by the law and the prophets; 22 Even the righteousness of God which is by faith of Jesus Christ unto all and upon all them that believe: for there is no difference: 23 For all have sinned, and come short of the glory of God; 24 Being justified freely by his grace through the redemption that is in Christ Jesus: 25 Whom God hath set forth to be a propitiation through faith in his blood, to declare his righteousness for the remission of sins that are past, through the forbearance of God; 26 To declare, I say, at this time his righteousness: that he might be just, and the justifier of him which believeth in Jesus. 27 Where is boasting then? It is excluded. By what law? of works? Nay: but by the law of faith. 28 Therefore we conclude that a man is justified by faith without the deeds of the law. 29 Is he the God of the Jews only? is he not also of the Gentiles? Yes, of the Gentiles also: 30 Seeing it is one God, which shall justify the circumcision by faith, and uncircumcision through faith. 31 Do we then make void the law through faith? God forbid: yea, we establish the law.

Being justified freely by his grace
through the redemption that is in Christ Jesus
Whom God hath set forth to be a propitiation through faith in his blood
to declare his righteousness for the remission of sins that are past, through the forbearance of God

Romans 5:12-21 Wherefore, as by one man sin entered into the world, and death by sin; and so death passed upon all men, for that all have sinned: 13 (For until the law sin was in the world: but sin is not imputed when there is no law. 14 Nevertheless death reigned from Adam to Moses, even over them that had not sinned after the similitude of Adam's transgression, who is the figure of him that was to come. 15 But not as the offence, so also is the free gift. For if through the offence of one many be dead, much more the grace of God, and the gift by grace, which is by one man, Jesus Christ, hath abounded unto many. 16 And not as it was by one that sinned, so is the gift: for the judgment was by one to condemnation, but the free gift is of many offences unto justification. 17 For if by one man's offence death reigned by one; much more they which receive abundance of grace and of the gift of righteousness shall reign in life by one, Jesus Christ.) 18 Therefore as by the offence of one judgment came upon all men to condemnation; even so by the righteousness of one the free gift came upon all men unto justification of life. 19 For as by one man's disobedience many were made sinners, so by the obedience of one shall many be made righteous. 20 Moreover the law entered, that the offence might abound. But where sin abounded, grace did much more abound: 21 That as sin hath reigned unto death, even so might grace reign through righteousness unto eternal life by Jesus Christ our Lord.

But not as the offence, so also is the free gift
much more the grace of God, and the gift by grace, which is by one man, Jesus Christ, hath abounded unto many
And not as it was by one that sinned, so is the gift: for the judgment was by one to condemnation, but the free gift is of many offences unto justification
For if by one man's offence death reigned by one; much more they which receive abundance of grace and of the gift of righteousness shall reign in life by one, Jesus Christ
But where sin abounded, grace did much more abound
even so might grace reign through righteousness unto eternal life by Jesus Christ our Lord

Being Justified Freely

justified by faith today? A

The Blood Principal

Established from the very beginning of creation was a blood principal that without the shedding of blood there’s no remission of sins… “…and without shedding of blood is no remission. (Heb 9:22)

We see this in the LORD’s provision of coats of skin for Adam and Eve, and in the firstlings of Abel’s flock. Noah, Abraham and Job all offered blood sacrifices. To understand the significance of Paul stating… “for the remission of sins that are past, through the forbearance of God”, is to comprehend how God dealt with sin under the Mosaic Covenant. Individuals were held accountable for sins on a personal basis, throughout a given year, to then be dealt with nationally on the day of atonement.

Leviticus 16:21-22 And Aaron shall lay both his hands upon the head of the live goat, and confess over him all the iniquities of the children of Israel, and all their transgressions in all their sins, putting them upon the head of the goat, and shall send him away by the hand of a fit man into the wilderness: 22 And the goat shall bear upon him all their iniquities unto a land not inhabited: and he shall let go the goat in the wilderness.

Aaron shall lay both his hands upon the head of the live goat, and confess over him all the iniquities of the children of Israel, and all their transgressions in all their sins, putting them upon the head of the goat
And the goat shall bear upon him all their iniquities unto a land not inhabited: and he shall let go the goat in the wilderness

Leviticus 16:29-30 And this shall be a statute for ever unto you: that in the seventh month, on the tenth day of the month, ye shall afflict your souls, and do no work at all, whether it be one of your own country, or a stranger that sojourneth among you: 30 For on that day shall the priest make an atonement for you, to cleanse you, that ye may be clean from all your sins before the LORD.

For on that day shall the priest make an atonement for you, to cleanse you, that ye may be clean from all your sins before the LORD

Leviticus 16:33-34 And he shall make an atonement for the holy sanctuary, and he shall make an atonement for the tabernacle of the congregation, and for the altar, and he shall make an atonement for the priests, and for all the people of the congregation. 34 And this shall be an everlasting statute unto you, to make an atonement for the children of Israel for all their sins once a year. And he did as the LORD commanded Moses.

and he shall make an atonement for the priests, and for all the people of the congregation
this shall be an everlasting statute unto you, to make an atonement for the children of Israel for all their sins once a year

Hebrews 9:13-14 For if the blood of bulls and of goats, and the ashes of an heifer sprinkling the unclean, sanctifieth to the purifying of the flesh: 14 How much more shall the blood of Christ, who through the eternal Spirit offered himself without spot to God, purge your conscience from dead works to serve the living God?

For if the blood of bulls and of goats, and the ashes of an heifer sprinkling the unclean
sanctifieth to the purifying of the flesh

Sins That Are Past

I’m in total disagreement with any notion that the activities on the day of atonement were merely symbolic and in reality, didn’t accomplish the purposes described! Also, in fully comprehending justification ‘by faith’, under the Mosaic Covenant, one must admit to the consequences of those who were excommunicated, from the congregation, because of certain violations within that covenant.

Acts 13:38-39 Be it known unto you therefore, men and brethren, that through this man is preached unto you the forgiveness of sins: 39 And by him all that believe are justified from all things, from which ye could not be justified by the law of Moses.

that through this man is preached unto you the forgiveness of sins
by him all that believe are justified from all things
from which ye could not be justified by the law of Moses

David was in deep doo-doo!

Here is where the recipients of this epistle, written to the Romans, could find real consolation in Paul’s words… “Whom God hath set forth to be a propitiation through faith in his blood, to declare his righteousness for the remission of sins that are past, through the forbearance of God”. Not only any and all sins could and would be forgiven, but there was now no issue of a yearly time restriction, as was under the Mosaic Covenant, whether being Jew or Gentile! Think about it… if one was born and remained within the nation of Israel, technically, a provision for forgiveness of sins was provided from birth to death.

Paul holds being justified freely, by his grace, in contrast to that work element (faithful obedience) contained under the Mosaic Covenant.

Sins that are past

First blood Sacrifice

Contrast in the Calls to Repentance

Then

Confession, Repentance and Baptism for Remission of Sins

Under the Mosaic Covenant there was always a confession of sins associated with the forgiveness of those sins when offering sacrifices. Also, as a nation in whole, making things right was mandated before God would once again bless that nation.

Leviticus 16:21 And Aaron shall lay both his hands upon the head of the live goat, and confess over him all the iniquities of the children of Israel, and all their transgressions in all their sins, putting them upon the head of the goat, and shall send him away by the hand of a fit man into the wilderness:

Aaron shall lay both his hands upon the head of the live goat
and confess over him all the iniquities of the children of Israel
and all their transgressions in all their sins

Isaiah 1:2-4 Hear, O heavens, and give ear, O earth: for the LORD hath spoken, I have nourished and brought up children, and they have rebelled against me. 3 The ox knoweth his owner, and the ass his master's crib: but Israel doth not know, my people doth not consider. 4 Ah sinful nation, a people laden with iniquity, a seed of evildoers, children that are corrupters: they have forsaken the LORD, they have provoked the Holy One of Israel unto anger, they are gone away backward. Isaiah 1:16-17 Wash you, make you clean; put away the evil of your doings from before mine eyes; cease to do evil; 17 Learn to do well; seek judgment, relieve the oppressed, judge the fatherless, plead for the widow.

Wash you, make you clean; put away the evil of your doings from before mine eyes; cease to do evil
Learn to do well; seek judgment, relieve the oppressed, judge the fatherless, plead for the widow

These exact principals are seen in the preaching of the kingdom gospel with a specific call to repentance. This prophesied kingdom would be preceded with tribulation and wrath. There were specific demands given to the Jew, in the call to repentance, such as confessing sins, meeting certain demands and being baptized for the remission of sins.

Matthew 3:1-6 In those days came John the Baptist, preaching in the wilderness of Judaea, 2 And saying, Repent ye: for the kingdom of heaven is at hand. 3 For this is he that was spoken of by the prophet Esaias, saying, The voice of one crying in the wilderness, Prepare ye the way of the Lord, make his paths straight. 4 And the same John had his raiment of camel's hair, and a leathern girdle about his loins; and his meat was locusts and wild honey. 5 Then went out to him Jerusalem, and all Judaea, and all the region round about Jordan, 6 And were baptized of him in Jordan, confessing their sins.

Then went out to him Jerusalem, and all Judaea, and all the region round about Jordan
And were baptized of him in Jordan
confessing their sins

Luke 3:7-14 Then said he to the multitude that came forth to be baptized of him, O generation of vipers, who hath warned you to flee from the wrath to come? 8 Bring forth therefore fruits worthy of repentance, and begin not to say within yourselves, We have Abraham to our father: for I say unto you, That God is able of these stones to raise up children unto Abraham. 9 And now also the axe is laid unto the root of the trees: every tree therefore which bringeth not forth good fruit is hewn down, and cast into the fire. 10 And the people asked him, saying, What shall we do then? 11 He answereth and saith unto them, He that hath two coats, let him impart to him that hath none; and he that hath meat, let him do likewise. 12 Then came also publicans to be baptized, and said unto him, Master, what shall we do? 13 And he said unto them, Exact no more than that which is appointed you. 14 And the soldiers likewise demanded of him, saying, And what shall we do? And he said unto them, Do violence to no man, neither accuse any falsely; and be content with your wages.

Then said he to the multitude that came forth to be baptized of him
O generation of vipers, who hath warned you to flee from the wrath to come?
Bring forth therefore fruits worthy of repentance
And the people asked him, saying, What shall we do then?
He answereth and saith unto them, He that hath two coats, let him impart to him that hath none
he that hath meat, let him do likewise
also publicans to be baptized, and said unto him, Master, what shall we do?
And he said unto them, Exact no more than that which is appointed you
the soldiers likewise demanded of him, saying, And what shall we do?
he said unto them, Do violence to no man, neither accuse any falsely; and be content with your wages

In my personal observation, of hundreds of baptisms with water, I’ve never witnessed once where it was demanded to either confess sins or vowing to make things right before submitting to baptism!

We must be reminded that under the priesthood environment that God set up, regardless of consideration of Israel being a kingdom of priests or of the priesthood setup within that nation, man was held accountable to man! Consider this… it was mandated that the Jew, who would justify God, would have to do so by going through either the ministries of John the Baptist (Lk 7:29-30), Jesus’ disciples (Jn 4:1-2; Mk 16:16) or the Apostles (Jn 20:23; Acts 2:38). Even Cornelius, a Gentile, was directed to Peter (Acts 11:14), who identified himself with a royal priesthood and holy nation.

1 Peter 2:9-10 But ye are a chosen generation, a royal priesthood, an holy nation, a peculiar people; that ye should shew forth the praises of him who hath called you out of darkness into his marvellous light: 10 Which in time past were not a people, but are now the people of God: which had not obtained mercy, but now have obtained mercy.

ye are a chosen generation, a royal priesthood, an holy nation

Now

Under Paul’s gospel, there is a difference of emphases on repentance, confession and works:

repentance

Acts 20:20-21 And how I kept back nothing that was profitable unto you, but have shewed you, and have taught you publickly, and from house to house, 21 Testifying both to the Jews, and also to the Greeks, repentance toward God, and faith toward our Lord Jesus Christ.

Testifying both to the Jews, and also to the Greeks
repentance toward God
and faith toward our Lord Jesus Christ

confession

Romans 10:9-10 That if thou shalt confess with thy mouth the Lord Jesus, and shalt believe in thine heart that God hath raised him from the dead, thou shalt be saved. 10 For with the heart man believeth unto righteousness; and with the mouth confession is made unto salvation.

That if thou shalt confess with thy mouth the Lord Jesus
and shalt believe in thine heart that God hath raised him from the dead, thou shalt be saved
For with the heart man believeth unto righteousness
and with the mouth confession is made unto salvation

good works

Acts 19:17-19 And this was known to all the Jews and Greeks also dwelling at Ephesus; and fear fell on them all, and the name of the Lord Jesus was magnified. 18 And many that believed came, and confessed, and shewed their deeds. 19 Many of them also which used curious arts brought their books together, and burned them before all men: and they counted the price of them, and found it fifty thousand pieces of silver.

And many that believed came
and confessed, and shewed their deeds

Just the Opposite

Justification or salvation which is ‘of faith’ today, is exactly backwards or opposite of salvation which was ‘by faith’! Repentance and faith are towards God and the Lord Jesus Christ. Confession is that of the Lord Jesus Christ, believing in one’s heart that God has raised him from the dead. Good works are to follow one’s salvation today.

There is no better way in ending this segment, on being justified freely, than with that written by Paul, the apostle to the Gentiles, addressed to saved non-covenanted Gentiles.

Ephesians 2:11-12 Wherefore remember, that ye being in time past Gentiles in the flesh, who are called Uncircumcision by that which is called the Circumcision in the flesh made by hands; 12 That at that time ye were without Christ, being aliens from the commonwealth of Israel, and strangers from the covenants of promise, having no hope, and without God in the world:

that ye being in time past Gentiles in the flesh, who are called Uncircumcision by that which is called the Circumcision in the flesh made by hands
That at that time ye were without Christ, being aliens from the commonwealth of Israel, and strangers from the covenants of promise, having no hope, and without God in the world

Ephesians 2:8-10 For by grace are ye saved through faith; and that not of yourselves: it is the gift of God: 9 Not of works, lest any man should boast. 10 For we are his workmanship, created in Christ Jesus unto good works, which God hath before ordained that we should walk in them.

For by grace are ye saved through faith; and that not of yourselves: it is the gift of God
Not of works, lest any man should boast
For we are his workmanship, created in Christ Jesus unto good works, which God hath before ordained that we should walk in them

The scripture foresaw the day in which God would justify the heathen ‘through faith’, based on the faith of Abraham pointing back to Genesis 15 (Gal 3:8-9). This gospel ‘of faith’ was a mystery hidden in the prophets, to then be revealed to and through Paul (Rom 16:25-26). A mystery hidden in God was that one day, after Israel had been set aside, the next level of God’s holy temple, in the Lord, would be built together made up of converted non-covenanted Gentiles.

Ephesians 2:21-22 In whom all the building fitly framed together groweth unto an holy temple in the Lord: 22 In whom ye also are builded together for an habitation of God through the Spirit.

ye also are builded together
for an habitation of God through the Spirit

Today, in this dispensation of the grace of God, we are justified freely by his grace through the redemption that is in Christ Jesus!

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