Therefore we conclude that a man to be justified by faith apart from works of law.
Truth to Learn
Righteousness comes by faith and faith alone, not by works.
Behind the Words
“Therefore” is from the Greek word oun, which marks a connection between the current phrase and that which proceeded.
The verb translated “we conclude” is logidzomai, which means “to put together with one’s mind, to count, or to make calculations or reckonings in the mind.” When used with oun, as it is here, it indicates “a proof” or “a conclusion.”
The words “apart from” are translated from chÅris, which indicates separation of two things in space or time. Therefore, it could be translated here as “separate from” or “without.”
“Works,” as we have seen before, is from the Greek word ergon, meaning “a deed, a work, something involving labor.”
There is no definite article before the word “law” in the Greek text. The word “the” has been added by some translators.
Meaning Explained
Paul has just gone through a very complete rationalization of why the Jews were falsely confident in the Law, having stated that whether Jew or Gentile we all have sinned and have come short of God’s glory. He further went on to show that the blood of Christ is represented by the mercy seat in that it “covers” our sins, allowing God to pass them by. And, in doing so, He draws attention to His own righteousness as he credits righteousness to anyone who has faith in the covering blood.
He now states the conclusion of this part of his dissertation. That is, that we are justified by faith apart from works of law. In other words, the works have absolutely no bearing on our justification (our being declared righteous).
The Jewish Christians in Rome had always considered their righteousness to be the result of keeping the requirements of the Law. Because of the teachings of the Law and the Prophets, they waited for their Messiah to come. These converts from Judaism considered themselves Christians because they kept the Law AND believed in their Messiah, Jesus of Nazareth. Paul now tells them that keeping the Law has no effect on salvation, further demonstrating that there can be no boasting in salvation because we didn’t do anything to deserve it.
We can only be justified by the principle (law) of faith. In order to satisfy this principle of faith we must humble ourselves before the mighty hand of our sinless God, agree with Him that we are sinners who are undeserving of justification (salvation), and agree with God (confess) that Jesus Christ died on the cross to pay the penalty for our sins.
Our justification does not come about because we perform some work or deed. We are justified in His sight because He reveals His son to us and He draws us to Himself so that we believe. It’s all His work and none of ours.
Application
Paul makes it very clear that we can’t do anything to earn salvation; we can only receive it humbly, as a free gift. Are you still trying to earn “favor” with God? Why? It can’t be done!
In God's service, for His glory,
Copyright © 2017 Will Krause. All rights reserved