What does Romans 3:20 mean?

Explanation

Romans 3:20 is a critical verse for understanding the apostle Paul's central message regarding the role of the Jewish Law (Torah) and the nature of justification before God.

The verse emphasizes that adherence to the Law is not the pathway to being justified, being declared righteous, before God. Instead, the Law provides people with the awareness of their sinfulness.

The phrase "no flesh" refers to no person, emphasizing the universal nature of this principle.

By stating that no one will be justified by the works of the Law, Paul means that it is not possible to achieve a righteous standing before God simply by observing the Law because every person falls short in doing so perfectly.

Historical Context

Romans was authored by Paul in the first century, a time when the newfound Christian faith was grappling with its relationship to Jewish Law.

Many early Christians, including Paul himself, were Jewish and had grown up under the Law.

However, as the gospel began to spread to Gentile (non-Jewish) communities, questions arose about whether adherence to Jewish customs and Law was necessary for salvation.

Paul wrote Romans to a mixed audience of Jewish and Gentile believers, emphasizing that salvation is available to all through faith in Jesus Christ, and not through the Law, which all humans inevitably fail to fully keep.

Theological Insights

Different theological perspectives view Romans 3:20 in varied lights.

Traditional Protestant theology, especially following Martin Luther, views this verse as pivotal for the doctrine of justification by faith alone (sola fide).

Catholic theology, while also valuing the role of faith, maintains a more nuanced view that emphasizes the role of faith working through love.

Other perspectives, such as the New Perspective on Paul, argue that Paul's focus on works of the Law pertains more to identity markers of the Jewish community rather than moral laws.

Practical Applications

In practical terms, Romans 3:20 often serves as a humbling reminder to individuals that they cannot earn their way to righteousness or favor with God through their deeds. It may encourage believers to rely on faith in God's grace rather than their moral achievements.

Additionally, it can guide Christians away from legalism and towards a more grace-oriented approach to spiritual life and community interactions.

Cross-References

• Romans 3:28: "Therefore we conclude that a man is justified by faith without the deeds of the law."
• 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."
• Romans 7:7: "What shall we say then? Is the law sin? God forbid.

Nay, I had not known sin, but by the law: for I had not known lust, except the law had said, Thou shalt not covet."

Language Study

Key words in the original Greek of Romans 3:20 include:

• "Works" (ergōn): Refers to actions or deeds.
• "Law" (nomou): Here, it is referring to the Jewish Law or Torah.
• "Justified" (dikaioō): To be declared righteous or acquitted.
• "Flesh" (sarx): Represents humanity or human beings in general.
• "Knowledge" (epignōsis): Connotes a full or deeper knowledge, often with a moral or spiritual implication.

Cultural and Religious Comparisons

In the broader context of ancient religions, rules and laws often formed the basis for ritual purity and standing with the deities.

In contrast, Paul's message in Romans positions the Jewish Law not as a means for achieving righteousness but as a paradigm to recognize human moral shortcomings.

This was a differing view from many other religious systems, including some strands of Judaism of that era, which emphasized strict adherence to religious laws for favor with God.

Scientific Perspectives

While Romans 3:20 does not directly engage with scientific concepts, it intersects with psychology and the study of human behavior.

From a psychological standpoint, recognizing human imperfection aligns with the understanding that all individuals have limitations. Psychologically, acknowledgement of human fallibility can lead to a more forgiving and compassionate attitude towards oneself and others.

Commentaries

Various biblical scholars and theologians have commented on Romans 3:20.

Martin Luther saw it as a foundation for his doctrine of justification by faith.

John Calvin noted that the knowledge of sin through the Law leads to the need for mercy.

Contemporary biblical scholars such as N.T.

Wright discuss it with regard to the New Perspective on Paul, suggesting that "works of the Law" might refer to specific laws that marked out Jewish identity.

Regardless of the specific interpretation, commentators agree that this verse is crucial for understanding Paul's message on the role of the Law in relation to faith and righteousness.