Romans 3: 21-27 Analysis

The passage, Romans 3:21-27, cannot thoroughly be understood by it once, or perhaps even twice, because of the complexity of what Paul says. Additionally, the text cannot rightly be understood on its own or without the context. Therefore, through looking at the historical background involved, the literary techniques and devices used, and the theological implications of the text, a clear interpretation of the text will develop; leading to the conclusion that righteousness in the eye of God is not something that can be attained through the law, rather we are made righteous through faith in Jesus Christ. Romans 3:21-27 says: 21 But now the righteousness of God has been manifested apart from the law, although the Law and the Prophets bear witness to it— 22 the righteousness of God through faith in Jesus Christ for all who believe. For there is no distinction: 23 for all have sinned and fall short of the glory of God, 24 and are justified by his grace as a gift, through the redemption that is in Christ Jesus, 25 whom God put forward as a propitiation …show more content…
Why was Paul writing to a church that he had previously had no interaction with? Longman claims it was to let the congregations of Rome to know to prepare for him (Paul) to visit. “He had already preached the gospel in the strategic centers of population in the East, and his restless spirit yearned to reach out to places where Christ was not known” (Longman 2008:24). Powell gives a more elaborate explanation to the purpose of the book by purposing four possible reasons Paul wrote to the Romans: (1) Paul wanted to make himself known to the Roman Christians before he visited them, (2) he wanted to gain support for the work he planned to do in Spain, (3) Paul wanted the Romans prayers regarding his upcoming trip to Jerusalem, and (4) he wanted to give the congregations counsel regarding certain issues within the congregation