Romans 3:20
Verse
Context
There Is No One Righteous
19Now we know that whatever the law says, it says to those who are under the law, so that every mouth may be silenced and the whole world held accountable to God.20Therefore no one will be justified in His sight by works of the law. For the law merely brings awareness of sin.
Sermons






Summary
Commentary
- Adam Clarke
- Jamieson-Fausset-Brown
- John Gill
- Tyndale
Adam Clarke Bible Commentary
Therefore, by the deeds of the law - On the score of obedience to this moral law, there shall no flesh, ου πασα σαρξ, no human being, be justified; none can be accepted in the sight of God. And why? Because by the law is the knowledge of sin: it is that which ascertains what sin is; shows how men have deviated from its righteous demands; and sentences them to death because they have broken it. Thus the law is properly considered as the rule of right; and, unless God had given some such means of discovering what Sin is, the darkened heart of man could never have formed an adequate conception of it. For, as an acknowledged straight edge is the only way in which the straightness or crookedness of a line can be determined, so the moral obliquity of human actions can only be determined by the law of God; that rule of right which proceeds from his own immaculate holiness.
Jamieson-Fausset-Brown Bible Commentary
Therefore by the deeds of--obedience to the law there shall no flesh be justified--that is, be held and treated as righteous; as is plain from the whole scope and strain of the argument. in his sight--at His bar (Psa 143:2). for by the law is the knowledge of sin--(See on Rom 4:15; Rom 7:7; and Jo1 3:4). Note, How broad and deep does the apostle in this section lay the foundations of his great doctrine of Justification by free grace--in the disorder of man's whole nature, the consequent universality of human guilt, the condemnation, by reason of the breach of divine law, of the whole world, and the impossibility of justification before God by obedience to that violated law! Only when these humiliating conclusions are accepted and felt, are we in a condition to appreciate and embrace the grace of the Gospel, next to be opened up.
John Gill Bible Commentary
Being justified freely by his grace,.... The matter of justification is before expressed, and the persons that share in this blessing are described; here the several causes of it are mentioned. The moving cause of it is the free grace of God; for by "the grace of God" here, is not meant the Gospel, or what some men call the terms of the Gospel, and the constitution of it; nor the grace of God infused into the heart; but the free love and favour of God, as it is in his heart; which is wonderfully displayed in the business of a sinner's justification before him: it appears in his resolving upon the justification of his chosen ones in Christ; in fixing on the method of doing it; in setting forth and pre-ordaining Christ to be the ransom; in calling Christ to engage herein; in Christ's engaging as a surety for his people, and in the Father's sending him to bring in everlasting righteousness; in Christ's coming to do it, and in the gracious manner in which he wrought it out; in the Father's gracious acceptation, imputation, and donation of it; in the free gift of the grace of faith, to apprehend and receive it; and in the persons that partake of it, who are of themselves sinners and ungodly. The meritorious cause of justification is, the redemption that is in Jesus Christ: redemption supposes a former state of captivity to sin, Satan, and the law, in which God's elect were by nature, and is a deliverance from it; it is of a spiritual nature, chiefly respects the soul, and is plenteous, complete, and eternal: this is in and by Christ; he was called unto it, was sent to effect it, had a right unto it, as being the near kinsman; and was every way fit for it, being both God and man; and has by his sufferings and death obtained it: now, as all the blessings of grace come through redemption by Christ, so does this of justification, and after this manner; Christ, as a Redeemer, had the sins of his people laid on him, and they were bore by him, and took away; the sentence of the law's condemnation was executed on him, as standing in their legal place and stead; and satisfaction was made by him for all offences committed by them, which was necessary, that God might appear to be just, in justifying all them that believe: nor is this any objection or contradiction to the free grace of God, in a sinner's justification; since it was grace in God to provide, send, and part with his Son as a Redeemer, and to work out righteousness; it was grace in Christ, to come and give himself a sacrifice, and obtain salvation and righteousness, not for angels, but for men, and for some of them, and not all; and whatever this righteousness, salvation, and redemption cost Christ, they are all free to men.
Tyndale Open Study Notes
3:20 By doing what the law commands refers to obeying the requirements of the law of Moses. While this phrase refers to Jews, the principle extends to all people. If Jews cannot be put in right relationship with God by obeying the law God gave them, certainly other people cannot establish such a relationship through good deeds.
Romans 3:20
There Is No One Righteous
19Now we know that whatever the law says, it says to those who are under the law, so that every mouth may be silenced and the whole world held accountable to God.20Therefore no one will be justified in His sight by works of the law. For the law merely brings awareness of sin.
- Scripture
- Sermons
- Commentary
Hells Best Kept Secret
By Ray Comfort66K46:21EvangelismMAT 5:17MAT 22:37ACT 2:37ROM 3:20ROM 7:7ROM 10:4GAL 3:24In this sermon, the speaker discusses his approach to sharing the gospel with others. He starts by engaging in casual conversation about everyday topics like weather and sports to establish a connection. Then, he transitions to spiritual matters using unique gospel tracts that capture people's attention. He emphasizes the seriousness of sin and the need for salvation, using visual aids and illustrations to drive the point home. The speaker highlights the importance of recognizing our desperate need for righteousness and how Jesus offers the cure for our sin. He also critiques modern evangelism that focuses on life enhancement rather than the true message of salvation.
(The Glory of God) in Ministering to the Lord
By Paul Washer22K1:18:42Glory Of GodROM 3:20ROM 8:37ROM 12:1In this sermon, the preacher discusses the book of Romans and its significance in understanding the Christian life. He emphasizes the faithfulness of God and how He fulfills all His promises. The preacher also highlights the importance of living according to the mercies of God, as outlined in the first three chapters of Romans. He contrasts the illusion of religious practices with the reality of worshiping God in all aspects of life.
Faith to Leave the Gas Station
By Major Ian Thomas12K50:13FaithROM 3:202CO 5:19PHP 2:12JAS 1:171PE 1:231PE 1:25In this sermon, the speaker shares a personal story of how he came to have faith in God. He emphasizes the importance of mixing the truth of God's word with faith in order to experience its transformative power. The speaker explains that teaching alone is not enough, but preaching is necessary to exhort individuals to apply their faith to the truths they have learned. Ultimately, the sermon encourages listeners to obey the truth of God's word and experience the abundant life that comes from a relationship with Him.
(So Great a Salvation) Conviction and Repentance
By Paris Reidhead11K48:14ConvictionEXO 20:1EZR 9:6MAT 6:33JHN 16:7ROM 3:20ROM 7:7GAL 3:24In this sermon, the preacher emphasizes the importance of addressing the spiritual needs of individuals when they become aware of them. He prays for God's guidance in reaching out to those who are being misled and emphasizes the significance of awakening and convicting sinners. The preacher reads from John chapter 16, focusing on verses 7 to 11, which discuss the second phase of the divine operation - conviction. He also mentions the need to use the law, such as the Ten Commandments, to help individuals who have been awakened but are not yet under conviction.
The Right Use of the Law
By Paris Reidhead6.8K56:27LawPSA 111:10MAT 5:17ROM 3:20ROM 7:71CO 15:32TI 3:16HEB 4:12In this sermon, the speaker shares his personal experience of being challenged by professors in college who tried to brainwash him against the Bible. Despite their efforts, he decided to re-read the Bible and was struck by the significance of the first four words, "In the beginning, God." This realization reaffirmed his belief in the Bible's authority. The speaker also mentions his recent involvement with computers and how he initially resisted their existence. He concludes by emphasizing the importance of preaching about the holiness, justice, and law of God to bring conviction of sin and the need for salvation.
Becoming the Christian You Are
By Major Ian Thomas6.5K1:09:44ChristianityGEN 3:15MAT 6:33ROM 3:20ROM 8:1GAL 3:13EPH 2:1In this sermon, the speaker emphasizes that the content of the gospel is Jesus Christ Himself. He explains that Jesus gave Himself for redemption and continues to give Himself for regeneration. The speaker also mentions a book called "The Mystery of Godness" that he has written, which explores this concept further. He uses a diagram to illustrate how God created humans with a body and a soul, consisting of mind, emotions, and will. The sermon references Genesis 3:15, where God promises to put enmity between Satan and humanity.
Faith and Works - Part 1
By Derek Prince6.3K27:50ROM 3:20ROM 7:4ROM 11:61CO 15:1GAL 5:18This sermon delves into the essence of the gospel as outlined by Paul in 1 Corinthians 15, emphasizing the three historical facts that constitute the gospel: Christ died for our sins, was buried, and rose again. It highlights the importance of faith over works in obtaining righteousness, drawing from Romans 4 and the example of Abraham. The sermon explores the relationship between faith, works, and grace, emphasizing that righteousness cannot be earned through works but is a gift of God's grace. It contrasts living under the law with living under grace, stressing the need to be led by the Holy Spirit rather than relying on rules for righteousness.
The True Way of Keeping Christmas (Reading)
By George Whitefield4.7K22:26Audio BooksROM 3:20EPH 5:15The sermon transcript emphasizes the importance of not wasting time on worldly entertainments, especially during this season. It urges individuals to spend their time wisely, engaging in conversations that are profitable and centered around the wonders of redeeming love. The transcript encourages believers to share with one another the great things the Lord has done for their souls and to focus their conversations on Jesus. It also highlights the need to use time for reading, praying, and religious conversation, rather than indulging in activities that do not glorify God. The sermon concludes with a plea for individuals to consider the significance of their time and to prioritize the glory of God and the welfare of their souls.
Delivered Through the Cross
By Derek Prince4.4K1:17:17CrossPSA 19:12MAT 6:33ROM 3:20ROM 4:5GAL 2:19EPH 2:8PHP 2:3In this sermon, the preacher discusses the mindset of focusing on temporal things and how it hinders believers from realizing their deliverance from the present evil age. He points out that television, being a medium of instant gratification, has influenced the church to adopt this mindset. The preacher emphasizes the need for believers to be delivered from this evil age, as it is controlled by the enemy who blinds people's minds to the gospel. He concludes by highlighting the importance of faith in God's righteousness rather than relying on a set of rules for righteousness.
Hell's Best Kept Secret (At Texas A&m)
By Kirk Cameron3.9K57:25EvangelismPSA 19:7MAT 9:37MAT 28:19LUK 16:19JHN 4:1ACT 1:8ROM 3:20In this sermon, the preacher emphasizes the importance of sharing the gospel with others. He suggests starting conversations with everyday topics and then transitioning to spiritual matters. He also mentions the use of unique gospel tracks, such as a grading card with Charles Darwin on the front, to catch people's attention. The preacher then shares a personal testimony of hearing the gospel for the first time and feeling convicted of sin. He concludes by discussing the function of God's law and how it reveals our need for a Savior.
True Gospel - Pt2 - What Is the Gospel?
By Paul Washer3.5K1:26:46ROM 3:10ROM 3:20ROM 3:23ROM 5:8ROM 6:23ROM 8:1ROM 12:1In this sermon, the speaker expresses his disbelief and disappointment in hearing someone casually mention the crucifixion of Jesus on the radio. He emphasizes the gravity and significance of Jesus dying on the cross to save the world. The speaker describes the darkness and silence that enveloped the earth on the day of the crucifixion, emphasizing the profound impact it had. He urges Christians to recognize the holiness of Jesus and to treat him with reverence. The speaker also highlights the love and sacrifice of Jesus in redeeming humanity from slavery to sin.
Hell's Best Kept Secret (French)
By Ray Comfort3.5K56:00EvangelismEXO 20:3LUK 10:25JHN 1:45JHN 3:1ACT 2:1ROM 3:201TI 1:8In this sermon, the speaker tells a story about two men in a plane, one given a parachute and told it would improve his flight. The first man initially doubts the parachute's effectiveness and is humiliated by other passengers when he puts it on. He eventually takes it off, thinking the captain doesn't mean it. The second man, however, gratefully puts on the parachute because he knows he will be jumping out of the plane. The speaker uses this story to illustrate the importance of understanding the true motive and purpose behind our actions, particularly in the context of personal evangelization.
Holiness and Revelation
By B.H. Clendennen3.3K40:02HolinessGEN 2:3EXO 3:4ROM 3:20ROM 7:7In this sermon, the preacher discusses the concept of entering into a new life through faith in Jesus Christ. He explains that initially, one must pass from death to life by accepting Jesus as their personal Savior. However, once a person is saved, they face the challenge of breaking away from their old environment and living according to their new life in Christ. The preacher emphasizes that being born again is more than just a verbal confession; it requires a genuine transformation. He also highlights the importance of understanding the holiness of God, which reveals both His infinite distance and His infinite nearness to humanity. The preacher encourages listeners to study the Bible, particularly the first five chapters of Genesis, to gain a deeper understanding of God's principles.
(Exodus) Exodus 29:26-27
By J. Vernon McGee3.2K04:03EXO 29:38LEV 7:31ROM 3:20HEB 9:26In this sermon, the preacher emphasizes the need for a continual reminder of the people's sin and the shedding of blood for atonement. The blood of animals like bulls, goats, and lambs was not sufficient to take away sin, but Jesus' sacrifice was adequate. The preacher also discusses the concept of sin and trespass, explaining that ignorance of the law does not excuse one from sinning. The main focus of the sermon is on the daily burnt offering, which was to be offered every morning and evening as a reminder of the people's need for atonement.
(Genesis) Genesis 4:6-7
By J. Vernon McGee2.6K05:38GenesisGEN 4:6MAT 5:21ROM 3:20JAS 1:15In this sermon, the preacher focuses on the story of Cain and Abel from the book of Genesis. He explains that Cain became angry and jealous when God accepted Abel's sacrifice but not his own. The preacher suggests that Cain's anger led to murder, emphasizing that anger is rooted in jealousy and pride. He also discusses the concept of sin lying at the door, interpreting it as a warning from God rather than a reference to a sin offering. The sermon highlights the importance of bringing an acceptable sacrifice to God and acknowledging one's own sinfulness.
A God That Keeps Records
By Rolfe Barnard2.6K56:13Judgment DayPSA 130:4MAT 6:33JHN 5:29ROM 3:202CO 4:32CO 4:7HEB 11:1In this sermon, the preacher recounts a tragic incident where a young man lost his life in an oil rig explosion. The preacher uses this event to emphasize the reality of judgment and the consequences of not being written in the book of life. He urges the congregation to witness the fire of judgment and to stand before God as a holy and obedient people. The preacher highlights the importance of honoring God through obedience, worship, and giving, and warns against robbing God of what is rightfully His.
K-198 the Anatomy of Sin Part Two
By Art Katz2.2K56:12SinMAT 24:14JHN 8:32ROM 1:20ROM 3:20HEB 9:191JN 1:7JUD 1:3In this sermon, the speaker recounts a personal experience of encountering a man with an artificial limb. Despite not speaking the same language, the speaker felt compelled to help the man and was struck by the absence of brutality and horror in his face. This encounter led the speaker to reflect on the importance of contending for the faith and not reducing it to mere rituals or convenience. The speaker emphasizes the need to truly understand the significance of the blood of Jesus and to be genuinely grieved by our sins.
(Galatians) Redeemed From the Curse of the Law
By Brian Brodersen1.6K49:24HAB 2:4ROM 3:20GAL 3:10EPH 2:8In this sermon, the speaker reflects on the humanity and suffering of Jesus Christ as portrayed in the movie "The Passion". He emphasizes the powerful impact of Jesus becoming a man and undergoing physical and emotional suffering. The speaker also highlights the incomprehensible spiritual suffering that Jesus endured, taking upon himself the sins of the world. The sermon addresses the misconception that the speaker is dismissing the law, clarifying that the law is holy, just, and good, but it becomes a challenge for individuals who are sold under sin. The speaker concludes by emphasizing the importance of trusting in Jesus and His grace, as He has redeemed believers from the curse of the law.
Adamic Administration - Promise in the Adamic Administration
By John Murray1.6K42:38AdamicGEN 2:17ROM 3:20ROM 4:4ROM 5:17ROM 6:23GAL 2:21EPH 2:8In this sermon, the speaker discusses the significance of the tree of life in the Adamic administration. They suggest that the tree of life served a purpose similar to the sacraments in the economies of covenant grace. It would have been sacrilege for Adam to partake of the tree of life after he had sinned, as it would have violated the divine order. The speaker also explores the idea that the tree of the knowledge of good and evil may hold the key to understanding the tree of life. They propose that the knowledge of good and evil could describe the alternative of the probation choice.
John the Baptist - an Epoch Making Vessel
By Stephen Kaung1.5K1:28:42John The BaptistPSA 119:105MAT 6:33LUK 1:5ROM 3:20HEB 11:6REV 12:1REV 22:20In this sermon, the preacher discusses the role of John the Baptist as an epic-making vessel of God. The preacher emphasizes that God's purpose never changes, but his ways and tactics may change over time. Before God brings about a change in time, he looks for an epic-making vessel, which in this case will be a corporate body of people. The preacher also mentions that the time of grace will soon be concluded, and a new era of righteousness will begin with the rule of Christ.
Pilgrim's Progress - Part 2
By Alfred P. Gibbs1.5K1:00:52Pilgrim's ProgressPRO 14:12MAT 6:33ROM 3:10ROM 3:20ROM 3:23ROM 3:28EPH 2:8In this sermon, the preacher tells the story of a man named Graceless who is burdened by his sins and desperately seeks salvation. Graceless reads the Bible and realizes the gravity of his guilt and the impending judgment. He encounters a man named Evangelist who guides him towards salvation through faith in Jesus Christ. The preacher emphasizes the importance of salvation from sin's penalty and power, highlighting the sacrifice of Jesus on the cross and the need to love God and others according to God's commandments.
A Heart Cleansed by Faith
By Ernest O'Neill1.5K33:18ISA 64:6LUK 24:47ROM 3:20ROM 5:8ROM 7:15GAL 2:16COL 3:9In this sermon, the preacher addresses the issue of feeling helpless and unable to overcome personal struggles. He emphasizes that saying "I can't" is tragic because it implies a lack of faith in God's power to help. The preacher explains that when we realize that not doing what we know is right is actually sin against God, it changes our perspective. He encourages listeners to turn away from relying on people, things, and circumstances for their needs and instead depend on God. By putting off the old nature and looking to God for security, the preacher assures that God will fill us with His Holy Spirit and cleanse our hearts.
The Uniqueness of Christianity
By J.B. Nicholson1.4K46:24ChristianityMAT 1:21ROM 1:1ROM 3:20ROM 3:23REV 22:17In this sermon, the speaker emphasizes the message of the Bible, which is about having a personal relationship with God through Jesus. The speaker mentions that the Bible contains historical data and evidence for its truthfulness, unlike any other belief system. The sermon highlights the promise of a savior, the Messiah, who was foretold in the Holy Scriptures. The speaker also discusses the concept of salvation and the need to understand the bad news before receiving the good news of the gospel.
What's Wrong With the Gospel? Part 1
By Keith Green1.3K59:32PSA 139:23MAT 11:28MRK 8:34ROM 3:20ROM 6:23GAL 3:24HEB 10:31JAS 2:10This sermon delves into the importance of not diluting the gospel message, emphasizing the need to address the missing parts in modern preaching. It highlights the significance of the blood of Jesus, the cross, the threat of hell, and the law of God in convicting sinners. The speaker challenges the trend of avoiding tough topics like sin, hell, and the law, urging a return to the full counsel of God's Word.
Unity of Covenant of Grace - Exegesis of Gal. 3:17-22
By John Murray1.2K52:08CovenantEXO 20:1MAT 6:33ROM 3:20ROM 10:4GAL 3:17GAL 3:21EPH 2:8In this sermon, the speaker begins by praying for the congregation to have a deep understanding of God's covenant grace. He then addresses the issue of a recent test that many students failed, stating that they will have an opportunity to retake it. The speaker emphasizes the importance of doing well in the final examination and suggests that balancing the grades from the retake test and the previous test may help improve overall performance. The sermon also touches on the concept of grace in the Mosaic covenant and how it relates to salvation through faith.
- Adam Clarke
- Jamieson-Fausset-Brown
- John Gill
- Tyndale
Adam Clarke Bible Commentary
Therefore, by the deeds of the law - On the score of obedience to this moral law, there shall no flesh, ου πασα σαρξ, no human being, be justified; none can be accepted in the sight of God. And why? Because by the law is the knowledge of sin: it is that which ascertains what sin is; shows how men have deviated from its righteous demands; and sentences them to death because they have broken it. Thus the law is properly considered as the rule of right; and, unless God had given some such means of discovering what Sin is, the darkened heart of man could never have formed an adequate conception of it. For, as an acknowledged straight edge is the only way in which the straightness or crookedness of a line can be determined, so the moral obliquity of human actions can only be determined by the law of God; that rule of right which proceeds from his own immaculate holiness.
Jamieson-Fausset-Brown Bible Commentary
Therefore by the deeds of--obedience to the law there shall no flesh be justified--that is, be held and treated as righteous; as is plain from the whole scope and strain of the argument. in his sight--at His bar (Psa 143:2). for by the law is the knowledge of sin--(See on Rom 4:15; Rom 7:7; and Jo1 3:4). Note, How broad and deep does the apostle in this section lay the foundations of his great doctrine of Justification by free grace--in the disorder of man's whole nature, the consequent universality of human guilt, the condemnation, by reason of the breach of divine law, of the whole world, and the impossibility of justification before God by obedience to that violated law! Only when these humiliating conclusions are accepted and felt, are we in a condition to appreciate and embrace the grace of the Gospel, next to be opened up.
John Gill Bible Commentary
Being justified freely by his grace,.... The matter of justification is before expressed, and the persons that share in this blessing are described; here the several causes of it are mentioned. The moving cause of it is the free grace of God; for by "the grace of God" here, is not meant the Gospel, or what some men call the terms of the Gospel, and the constitution of it; nor the grace of God infused into the heart; but the free love and favour of God, as it is in his heart; which is wonderfully displayed in the business of a sinner's justification before him: it appears in his resolving upon the justification of his chosen ones in Christ; in fixing on the method of doing it; in setting forth and pre-ordaining Christ to be the ransom; in calling Christ to engage herein; in Christ's engaging as a surety for his people, and in the Father's sending him to bring in everlasting righteousness; in Christ's coming to do it, and in the gracious manner in which he wrought it out; in the Father's gracious acceptation, imputation, and donation of it; in the free gift of the grace of faith, to apprehend and receive it; and in the persons that partake of it, who are of themselves sinners and ungodly. The meritorious cause of justification is, the redemption that is in Jesus Christ: redemption supposes a former state of captivity to sin, Satan, and the law, in which God's elect were by nature, and is a deliverance from it; it is of a spiritual nature, chiefly respects the soul, and is plenteous, complete, and eternal: this is in and by Christ; he was called unto it, was sent to effect it, had a right unto it, as being the near kinsman; and was every way fit for it, being both God and man; and has by his sufferings and death obtained it: now, as all the blessings of grace come through redemption by Christ, so does this of justification, and after this manner; Christ, as a Redeemer, had the sins of his people laid on him, and they were bore by him, and took away; the sentence of the law's condemnation was executed on him, as standing in their legal place and stead; and satisfaction was made by him for all offences committed by them, which was necessary, that God might appear to be just, in justifying all them that believe: nor is this any objection or contradiction to the free grace of God, in a sinner's justification; since it was grace in God to provide, send, and part with his Son as a Redeemer, and to work out righteousness; it was grace in Christ, to come and give himself a sacrifice, and obtain salvation and righteousness, not for angels, but for men, and for some of them, and not all; and whatever this righteousness, salvation, and redemption cost Christ, they are all free to men.
Tyndale Open Study Notes
3:20 By doing what the law commands refers to obeying the requirements of the law of Moses. While this phrase refers to Jews, the principle extends to all people. If Jews cannot be put in right relationship with God by obeying the law God gave them, certainly other people cannot establish such a relationship through good deeds.