27Where, then, is boasting? It is excluded. On what principle? On that of observing the law? No, but on that of faith. 28For we maintain that a man is justified by faith apart from observing the law. 29Is God the God of Jews only? Is he not the God of Gentiles too? Yes, of Gentiles too, 30since there is only one God, who will justify the circumcised by faith and the uncircumcised through that same faith. 31Do we, then, nullify the law by this faith? Not at all! Rather, we uphold the law.(NIV)
Main Points and Discussion Questions
1. Faith in God’s justifying work through Christ leaves no room for pride. (v. 27)
cf. Eph. 2:8-9; 1 Jn 2:16-17
Discussion Question 1A: How would you respond to someone who says, “It’s true that God had to send Christ to rescue me from my sin, and there was nothing I could do to save myself from His wrath. But I still had to believe, didn’t I? Can’t I give some credit to myself for this?”
Discussion Question 1B: Is there a legitimate kind of pride (e.g. “taking pride” in one’s children)? If so, what differentiates this from the illegitimate pride condemned in the Bible?
2. Just as God condemns both Jews and Gentiles on the grounds of their sin (Rom 3:9-20), so He justifies both Jews and Gentiles on the grounds of their faith in Christ –with no favouritism shown to either group. (vv. 28-30)
cf. Rom 10:11-13; Gal 3:28
Discussion Question 2A: Why do you think the Apostle Paul wanted to emphasize God’s “equal” treatment of both Jews and Gentiles?
3. The Law is not invalidated just because God declares people righteous through their faith (v. 31).
Discussion Question 3: Why is the Law still important for believers?
(Rom 3:19-20; Rom 7:7-12; Rom 8:1-4; Matt 5:17-20)
