Freely Justified by Grace Outline

Romans 3:21–31 ESV

But now the righteousness of God has been manifested apart from the law, although the Law and the Prophets bear witness to it— the righteousness of God through faith in Jesus Christ for all who believe. For there is no distinction: for all have sinned and fall short of the glory of God, and are justified by his grace as a gift, through the redemption that is in Christ Jesus, whom God put forward as a propitiation by his blood, to be received by faith. This was to show God’s righteousness, because in his divine forbearance he had passed over former sins. It was to show his righteousness at the present time, so that he might be just and the justifier of the one who has faith in Jesus. Then what becomes of our boasting? It is excluded. By what kind of law? By a law of works? No, but by the law of faith. For we hold that one is justified by faith apart from works of the law. Or is God the God of Jews only? Is he not the God of Gentiles also? Yes, of Gentiles also, since God is one—who will justify the circumcised by faith and the uncircumcised through faith. Do we then overthrow the law by this faith? By no means! On the contrary, we uphold the law.

Justified by Grace: The Divine Exchange

Bible Passage: Romans 3:21–31

Summary: In Romans 3:21-31, Paul presents the Gospel as the revelation of God's righteousness apart from the law, emphasizing that justification comes through faith in Jesus Christ for all who believe, highlighting the grace of God in the salvation of sinners.

Application: This passage encourages Christians to recognize that their justification is not based on their works or adherence to the law but solely on God's grace. Believers can find peace and assurance in their salvation, understanding that they are accepted by God through faith alone, which can help alleviate feelings of inadequacy and guilt.

Teaching: The sermon teaches that justification by grace is a fundamental aspect of the Christian faith. It emphasizes the importance of faith in Christ as the means of receiving God’s righteousness and the liberating truth that all believers are equal recipients of grace, regardless of their past.

How this passage could point to Christ: Christ is central to the concept of justification. He is the fulfillment of the law and the sacrifice that secures our righteousness. Throughout Scripture, the sacrificial system points to Christ's atonement, culminating in the New Testament's declaration of salvation through faith in Him alone.

Big Idea: Justification by grace through faith is the essential truth that transforms our relationship with God, freeing us from the law and granting us peace and assurance in Christ.

Recommended Study: As you prepare your sermon on Romans 3:21-31, consider exploring the historical context of justification in Paul’s writings versus Jewish law. Additionally, delve into the Greek terms for justification and grace using Logos to uncover rich theological insights. Pay attention to different scholarly interpretations concerning the role of faith in the process of salvation, which will enhance your understanding of its implications for your audience.

1. Righteousness Revealed Afresh

Romans 3:21

Perhaps you could explore how God's righteousness is revealed apart from the law. This could highlight the idea that our standing with God isn't dependent on our ability to adhere to the law, which is liberating for believers who struggle with perfectionism or guilt. You might emphasize the radical nature of this revelation, which extends grace to all without exclusion. Stress that this new revelation of righteousness is the basis for our peace with God, freeing us from the impossible standard of the law.

2. Faith for All Failures

Romans 3:22–23

Maybe you can underscore the universality of sin and the accessibility of God's righteousness through faith in Jesus Christ. This could help your audience realize that all have sinned, thus leveling the playing field before God, and nobody is more deserving or less justified than another. Highlighting faith in Jesus as the common ground can encourage those who feel marginalized or unworthy. Point to the inclusion of "all who believe" as an empowering truth that unites diverse individuals under the banner of grace.

3. Grace Gift for Justice

Romans 3:24–26

You could delve into the idea of being justified freely by God's grace through the redemption found in Christ. This might be a good opportunity to explain the significance of Christ's sacrifice as the means by which God's justice and love meet. Perhaps this can help your audience grasp the depth of God's love and the costly nature of grace, affirming that Jesus' atonement is enough. Emphasizing that it is a free gift can combat feelings of inadequacy and provide assurances of God's unconditional acceptance.

4. Boasting Banned for Believers

Romans 3:27–31

Consider discussing how this passage moves to the theme of boasting being excluded, reinforcing that salvation through faith in Christ leaves no room for self-righteousness. Perhaps you can suggest that this humbling truth strengthens community and unity among believers, as all are equal recipients of grace. This point could challenge any pride that believers might harbor, and instead foster a culture of gratitude and humility in the congregation, recognizing Christ as the sole source of our justification.