Your March 17th Expository Sermon

The Dawn of Righteousness (Romans 3:21-31)

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Sermon Outline: [NOTE to Paid subscribers — scroll down for the full manuscript sermon].

Title: "The Dawn of Righteousness” — Romans 3:21-31

Introduction:

In the heart of Paul’s letter to the Romans, a transition occurs that is nothing short of breathtaking. Romans 3:21-30 shifts from the stark reality of human sinfulness and the law's inability to justify, to the glorious revelation of God’s righteousness through faith in Jesus Christ. This passage unveils the cornerstone of the Christian faith: justification by grace through faith. As we journey through these verses, we encounter the heart of the gospel, inviting us to explore the depths of God's redemptive plan for humanity.

I. The Revelation of Righteousness Apart from the Law (Romans 3:21-22)

• Divine Disclosure: Paul announces a righteousness from God that is distinct from the law, a righteousness revealed and testified by the law and the prophets.

• Universal Access through Faith: This righteousness is accessible to all who believe, without distinction, demonstrating the inclusivity of the gospel. The phrase "through faith in Jesus Christ" underscores the centrality of faith in the Christian experience.

II. The Universal Need for Redemption (Romans 3:23-24)

• Shared Sinfulness: "For all have sinned and fall short of the glory of God" (Romans 3:23, ESV). This verse encapsulates the universal condition of humanity, leveling the ground at the foot of the cross.

• Grace Abounds: In contrast, "and are justified by his grace as a gift" (Romans 3:24, ESV) highlights the unmerited favor of God. Justification is presented not as a reward but as a gracious gift, through the redemption in Christ Jesus.

III. The Propitiation by Christ’s Blood (Romans 3:25-26)

• Divine Satisfaction: Christ Jesus, whom God put forward as a propitiation by his blood, to be received by faith. This introduces the concept of propitiation—God’s wrath towards sin being satisfied in the sacrifice of Jesus.

• The Justice and Justifier: These verses emphasize God’s righteousness in His forbearance of sins previously committed and in justifying the one who has faith in Jesus. It magnifies God's dual role as both just and the justifier.

IV. Boasting Excluded by the Law of Faith (Romans 3:27-28)

• The End of Boasting: With the introduction of justification by faith, Paul declares that boasting is excluded. The "law of faith" opposes any claim of human merit, promoting a humility grounded in the grace of God.

• Faith, Not Works: "For we hold that one is justified by faith apart from works of the law" (Romans 3:28, ESV). This principle marks a radical departure from reliance on the law for righteousness, emphasizing faith as the means of justification.

V. God of All: Justification for Jew and Gentile (Romans 3:29-31)

• Inclusive God: These verses confront the notion of God as exclusive to the Jews. Paul asserts God's sovereignty over both Jews and Gentiles, underscoring the universal scope of the gospel.

• One Path to Righteousness: "Since God is one—who will justify the circumcised by faith and the uncircumcised through faith" (Romans 3:30, ESV). This reinforces the unity of God’s plan for salvation, accessible to all through faith, irrespective of ethnic or religious background.

Conclusion:

Romans 3:21-30 stands as a message of hope, illuminating the path to righteousness through faith in Jesus Christ. It dismantles the barriers of sin and the law, revealing a righteousness that is accessible to all who believe. This passage invites us into a profound relationship with God, grounded not in our own merits but in the grace and love of our Savior. As we reflect on this monumental truth, let us embrace the faith that justifies, transforms, and unites us in the family of God. Let this message of redemption fill our hearts with gratitude and our lives with the light of His righteousness.

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