Entrusted With the Words of God Outline

Romans 3:1–20 ESV

Then what advantage has the Jew? Or what is the value of circumcision? Much in every way. To begin with, the Jews were entrusted with the oracles of God. What if some were unfaithful? Does their faithlessness nullify the faithfulness of God? By no means! Let God be true though every one were a liar, as it is written, “That you may be justified in your words, and prevail when you are judged.” But if our unrighteousness serves to show the righteousness of God, what shall we say? That God is unrighteous to inflict wrath on us? (I speak in a human way.) By no means! For then how could God judge the world? But if through my lie God’s truth abounds to his glory, why am I still being condemned as a sinner? And why not do evil that good may come?—as some people slanderously charge us with saying. Their condemnation is just. What then? Are we Jews any better off? No, not at all. For we have already charged that all, both Jews and Greeks, are under sin, as it is written: “None is righteous, no, not one; no one understands; no one seeks for God. All have turned aside; together they have become worthless; no one does good, not even one.” “Their throat is an open grave; they use their tongues to deceive.” “The venom of asps is under their lips.” “Their mouth is full of curses and bitterness.” “Their feet are swift to shed blood; in their paths are ruin and misery, and the way of peace they have not known.” “There is no fear of God before their eyes.” Now we know that whatever the law says it speaks to those who are under the law, so that every mouth may be stopped, and the whole world may be held accountable to God. For by works of the law no human being will be justified in his sight, since through the law comes knowledge of sin.

Faithful Stewards of God's Words

Bible Passage: Romans 3:1–20

Summary: In Romans 3:1-20, Paul discusses the advantages of being a Jew, including the trustworthiness of God’s words and the universal nature of sin, emphasizing that all fall short of God's glory and the significance of divine faithfulness despite humanity's unfaithfulness.

Application: This passage can help Christians understand their privilege and responsibility in being entrusted with God's words, encouraging them to live in a way that reflects His truth, while also motivating them to share this truth with others who may feel excluded or lost.

Teaching: This sermon teaches that God's faithfulness prevails regardless of human unfaithfulness, and it highlights the importance of recognizing our sinful state and the grace available through Christ.

How this passage could point to Christ: The passage ultimately points to Christ, showing that while all have sinned and fall short of the glory of God, it is through Jesus that redemption is available, fulfilling God's promises and showcasing His faithfulness.

Big Idea: As stewards entrusted with the words of God, we must recognize our sinfulness and the overwhelming grace offered through Christ, motivating us to live out and share His truth with the world.

Recommended Study: As you prepare this sermon using your Logos library, consider examining the historical context of Paul’s audience to better understand the significance of his message about Jewish privilege and God's faithfulness. Look into commentaries that reflect on the translation nuances of key terms like 'faithfulness' and 'justification' in Romans 3. Exploring articles on the theological implications of sin and grace in Romans can also enrich your preparation.

1. Privilege and Responsibility

Romans 3:1-4

You could explore how being entrusted with God's words is a special privilege and responsibility for those who hear them today, just as it was for the Jews. The passage encourages believers to be faithful stewards by showcasing God's faithfulness, even when we are unfaithful.

2. Righteousness Revealed

Romans 3:5-8

Perhaps this section highlights the holiness and righteousness of God in contrast to human sinfulness. Even when human sin intends evil, God's righteousness shines gloriously. This underscores the need for believers to rely on grace and reflects how God’s truth prevails.

3. Universal Sinfulness

Romans 3:9-12

Maybe this point could emphasize the universal nature of sin and the reminder that all people, Jew and Gentile alike, fall short of God's righteousness. This could be an opportunity to share that acknowledgment of our sinfulness is essential in recognizing our need for Christ’s redemptive work.

4. Sin's Pervasive Power

Romans 3:13-18

Perhaps here you could discuss the practical outworkings of sin as described by Paul. This section allows you to illustrate how sin affects every aspect of humanity—our speech, actions, and thoughts—highlighting the pervasive need for the Savior.

5. Justification Through Faith

Romans 3:19-20

You could conclude by emphasizing that the law brings awareness of sin but cannot justify us before God. This opens a pathway to Christ, as He fulfills the law and offers justification through faith, encouraging believers to trust in Him alone for salvation.

In the history of the Reformation, translators like William Tyndale faced immense persecution to bring the Bible into the common tongue. With the threat of death looming over him, he understood the eternal significance of making God’s word accessible to all. Today, as we hold our Bibles, let us remember that we are recipients of a great legacy—entrusted with divine truths meant to guide and save a world in need.

What specific advantages does Paul identify regarding the Jews in Romans 3:1-4?