Romans 10:4

For Christ is the end of the law for righteousness to every one that believeth.

Romans 10:4 (KJV)

Context

Paul wrote the letter to the Romans to address various aspects of the Christian faith. In Romans 9-11, he focuses on the relationship between Jews and Gentiles in God’s plan of salvation. This verse sits within that larger argument, where Paul contrasts human attempts to establish their own righteousness with the righteousness that comes through faith in Christ.

Meaning

The phrase “Christ is the end of the law” means that Christ is the culmination, fulfillment, and completion of the Old Testament law. The law, including the commandments and regulations given to Israel, served as a standard of righteousness and a guide for holy living. Yet it pointed to Jesus as its ultimate purpose. Christ perfectly fulfilled its requirements, and His life, death, and resurrection brought the law to its intended goal.

The Greek word translated “end” is telos, which can mean end, goal, or culmination. This suggests that Christ does not merely terminate the law but brings it to its designed completion. The law was never meant to be the means of justification; rather, it directed people to Christ, who is the source of righteousness for every believer.

Paul then explains that this righteousness is “to every one that believeth.” Righteousness—being in right standing with God—is now received through faith in Jesus Christ, not by perfectly keeping the law. In the Old Testament, people sought righteousness by striving to obey the law, but they could not achieve it perfectly. Through faith in Christ, believers are justified and declared righteous before God. It is not our works that save us but our faith in Christ’s finished work on the cross.

Biblical connections

This teaching connects with Paul’s broader argument in Romans that the law was never intended to provide justification. Instead, it served as a tutor to lead people to Christ. The verse also echoes the preceding context, where Paul describes Israel’s zeal for God as misguided because it sought to establish its own righteousness rather than submitting to God’s righteousness through faith.

Application

Romans 10:4 teaches us that our righteousness and salvation are not based on our own efforts or ability to keep the law perfectly. Instead, they are based on our faith in Jesus Christ and His finished work. We are justified before God by placing our trust in Jesus as our Savior. This verse highlights the central message of the Gospel: salvation is a free gift available to all who believe in Jesus, regardless of their background or adherence to the law.

This verse also reminds us of the importance of sharing the Gospel with others. Since righteousness comes through faith in Christ, it is essential for believers to proclaim the good news to everyone, that they may also have the opportunity to believe and be saved.

Reflection

Romans 10:4 affirms that Christ is the fulfillment of the law, and righteousness is now obtained through faith in Him. It emphasizes the centrality of Christ’s work for our salvation and highlights the importance of sharing this message with others.