Romans 3:21

“But now the righteousness of God without the law is manifested, being witnessed by the law and the prophets.”

Context:This verse marks an essential transition in the book of Romans. In the preceding verses, the Apostle Paul argues that all humanity, both Jews and Gentiles, are under sin and fall short of God’s glory (Romans 3:9-20). However, in verse 21, Paul introduces a remarkable revelation of God’s righteousness apart from the law.

The righteousness of God refers to His perfect moral character and adherence to justice. It signifies the right standing with God that humans lack due to their sinfulness. This righteousness is essential for salvation and is impossible for humans to attain on their own.

In this context, without the law means apart from the works of the Mosaic Law. Paul emphasizes that God’s righteousness is not obtained through obedience to the law or religious rituals. Instead, it is available through a different means, as Paul will explain further in the book of Romans.

The manifested righteousness of God has been revealed or made known. This revelation comes in the person of Jesus Christ and His sacrificial death on the cross, as Paul will explain in later verses.

The Old Testament witnessed by the law and the prophets testified to the righteousness of God that would be made available through Jesus Christ. The law, including the moral and ceremonial laws, pointed towards the need for a Savior. The prophets foretold the coming of the Messiah, who would bring righteousness and salvation.

Overall, Romans 3:21 emphasizes that human righteousness cannot be achieved through works or adherence to the law. God’s righteousness is instead made available through faith in Jesus Christ, who fulfilled the law and provided salvation for all who believe. This verse sets the stage for Paul’s subsequent explanation of justification by faith and the grace of God in Romans chapter 4 and beyond.