Romans 3:27

Where is boasting then? It is excluded. By what law? of works? Nay: but by the law of faith.

Romans 3:27 (KJV)

Context

Paul writes this verse after explaining that God’s righteousness is received through faith in Jesus Christ (Romans 3:21‑26). He has shown that both Jews and Gentiles are justified apart from the works of the law. Now he asks a pointed rhetorical question: “Where is boasting then?” The answer is that boasting is completely shut out.

Meaning

Boasting is excluded not by a law of works, because a system based on human effort would actually give grounds for self‑exaltation. It is excluded by the “law of faith.” Here “law” does not mean a new set of rules requiring faith as a work. It carries the sense of a governing principle or doctrine—specifically, the doctrine of justification by faith. This principle leaves no room for pride because salvation is entirely a gift received through faith, not a wage earned by effort.

The “law of faith” emphasizes trust in Christ and reliance on His finished work on the cross. Faith is the means by which God’s grace is applied, allowing believers to receive righteousness freely, without any claim to personal achievement. Salvation is a gift, not a reward for human effort, and this truth humbles the believer, removing any opportunity for self‑glorification. It directs our focus toward God’s mercy and the sufficiency of Christ’s atonement.

Application

Romans 3:27 calls believers to rely on God’s grace, to recognize that their standing before God is entirely dependent on Him, and to avoid any attitude of self‑exaltation. While various theological perspectives may explore nuances of this verse, the central message remains clear: justification is by faith alone, and therefore there is no ground for boasting.