In verses 1-8 the apostle answers four objections which he found that men raised against the gospel. (The objections are stated in verses 1, 3, 5, and 7, 8a; the answers are given in verses 2, 4, 6, and 8b.) These will repay careful study; in particular note how Paul describes the Old Testament scriptures, to what two attributes of God he holds fast, and what kind of conduct he strenuously repudiates.
In verses 10-18 Paul gives the general verdict of Scripture on man in his fallen condition. What does Scripture say: a) about the general trend of human life (verses 10-12, cf. Is 53:6a); b) about man’s speech (verses 13-14); and c) about his conduct and inner attitude to God (verses 15-18)? How does this witness confirm the verdict of experience already given in 1:18-32 and 2:17-29 and lead to the conclusion of 3:19-20? Answer: a) All are not righteous because of sin, no one seeks God without god first seeking them. B) Man’s speech is corrupt showing his true heart. C) They do not seek God, rather they seek to destroy others. Paul is telling the Jews, yet again, that the law cannot save you. This time Paul notes that not only does the law not save you and make you righteous, it only makes you aware of sin.
Do you assent to the truth that it is impossible for anyone, by their own efforts, to escape condemnation at the bar of God’s judgment? Answer: I totally agree, no one can meet God’s standard. We rely on Christ’s atoning Blood for salvation.
Notes:
Verse 20. ‘Works of the Law’: a phrase that occurs also in verse 28. It denotes conduct achieved by a man’s own efforts in obedience to a divinely-given statue. Cf. Gal 3:10-12.
Verse 20. ‘Justified’ means ‘declared’ or ‘pronounced righteousness’.
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