Our Problem
Romans 3:9-20 concludes the "bad news" that began in 1:18. Read Romans 3:9-20. Though the Jews were "entrusted with the very words of God" (3:2), they are on equal terms with the Gentiles (non-Jews) when it comes to God's standard and judgment.

1. Paul writes, "We have already made the charge that Jews and Gentiles alike are all under sin" (3:9, NIV). What does it mean to be "under sin?"

Paul's point (that all are under sin) is confirmed by Old Testament Scripture (3:10-18).

2. Based on verses 10-18, what characteristics of humanity demonstrate its sinful condition? (3:12-17)

3. In general, what is the main problem with the human race? (3:11-12, 18) How extensive is this problem? (3:10-11)

In view of the evidence against human beings (including those with the Scriptures), they have no excuse. "Every mouth [is] silenced and the whole world is accountable to God" (3:19). No one will be declared righteous in God's sight by observing the law, or by doing good works in general, because no one can meet God's standard of righteousness (3:20).

4. If human beings cannot achieve a right standing with God by observing the law, what purpose does it serve? What function is mentioned in verse 20?

Reflection/Application
† Are you conscious of your sin? Toward others? Toward God? Read Questions for Self-Examination. How do you measure your sin? Measure it against God's standards.

God's Solution
"Our problem" is bad news. We need to be right with God. We need to be reconciled to God (restored to a relationship with God). But we cannot do it! Our best efforts still fall short.

However, there is good news! Read Romans 3:21-26. "But now a righteousness from God, apart from the law, has been made known" (3:21, NIV; cp. 1:17).

How can a person be right with God? How can a person be reconciled to God? How can a person receive salvation from his/her sinful condition and consequences?

God's Provision
"justified freely by his grace" (3:24a) - God declares sinful persons to be righteous (right with God) on the basis of the righteousness of Christ. This is a gift of God's grace.

"…through the redemption that came by Christ Jesus" (3:24b) - God redeems (liberates, sets free) persons "under sin." This redemption involves a "price" that must be paid.

God presented [Jesus] as a sacrifice of atonement (3:25) - Jesus died for our sins (as a substitute). He took on himself our sin, and paid the "price" (death) so that we could be forgiven and set free. (Furthermore, his resurrection from the dead defeated sin & death.)

"For God made Christ, who never sinned, to be the offering for our sin, so that we could be made right with God through Christ" (2 Corinthians 5:21, NLT).

How We Receive God's Provision
"through faith in Jesus Christ" (3:22) - We receive the benefits of God's provision (justification, redemption, salvation, relationship with God, eternal life) through believing and trusting in Jesus Christ as Savior and Lord.

5. What do you think of this "good news?" If it is difficult to accept, what are your questions or objections? If you accept this as "good news," in what ways is it good news?

God is holy, righteous and just. Sin must be punished. God is also gracious and merciful. So God provided a way to satisfy his holy justice and also provide a way of salvation for sinful humans. Thus God is "just and the one who justifies those who have faith in Jesus" (3:26).

Reflection/Application
† Carefully consider question 5. If you have not accepted the "good news," identify your questions or objections, and seek answers. If you believe this is good news, but you have not responded in faith, do so! If you have already received Christ, identify the attitudes that you should have toward God, about yourself, and toward others in light of the good news.