Romans 3:4
Verse
Context
Sermons







Summary
Commentary
- Adam Clarke
- Jamieson-Fausset-Brown
- John Gill
- Tyndale
Adam Clarke Bible Commentary
Apostle. God forbid - μη γενοιτο, Let it not be, far from it, by no means. Yea, let God be true, but every man a liar, etc. We must ever maintain that God is true, and that if, in any case, his promise appear to fail, it is because the condition on which it was given has not been complied with; which is the sense of what is written, Psa 51:4 : I acknowledge my sin, and condemn myself that the truth of thy promise (Sa2 7:15, Sa2 7:16) to establish my house and throne for ever, may be vindicated when thou shalt execute that dreadful threatening, (Sa2 12:10), that the sword shall never depart from my house, which I own I have brought upon myself by my own iniquity. Should any man say that the promise of God had failed toward him, let him examine his heart and his ways, and he will find that he has departed out of that way in which alone God could, consistently with his holiness and truth, fulfill the promise.
Jamieson-Fausset-Brown Bible Commentary
God forbid--literally, "Let it not be," that is, "Away with such a thought"--a favorite expression of our apostle, when he would not only repudiate a supposed consequence of his doctrine, but express his abhorrence of it. "The Scriptures do not authorize such a use of God's name as must have been common among the English translators of the Bible" [HODGE]. yea, let God be--held true, and every man a liar--that is, even though it should follow from this that every man is a liar. when thou art judged--so in Psa 51:4, according to the Septuagint; but in the Hebrew and in our version, "when thou judgest." The general sentiment, however, is the same in both--that we are to vindicate the righteousness of God, at whatever expense to ourselves.
John Gill Bible Commentary
God forbid, yea, let God be true, but every man a liar,.... Let no such thing ever enter into the minds of any, that the truth of God can be, or will be made of none effect by the want of faith in man; let it be always asserted and abode by; that God is true, faithful to his word, constant in his promises, and will always fulfil his purposes; though "every man is a liar", vain, fallacious, and inconstant: referring to Psa 116:11; as it is written, Psa 51:4; that thou mightest be justified in thy sayings, and mightest overcome when thou art judged. This is a proof that God is true, and stands to his word, though men are fallacious, inconstant, and wicked. God made a promise to David, that of the fruit of his body he would set upon his throne; that the Messiah should spring from him; that he would of his seed raise up unto Israel a Saviour. Now David sinned greatly in the case of Bathsheba, Sa2 11:3 (title), but his sin did not make of no effect the truth and faithfulness of God: though David showed himself to be a weak sinful man, yet God appeared true and faithful to every word of promise which he had sworn in truth to him; and therefore when he was brought to a sense of his evil, and at the same time to observe the invariable truth and faithfulness of God, said, "I acknowledge my transgression, &c. against thee, thee only have I sinned and done this evil in thy sight", Psa 51:3, which confession of sin I make, "that thou mightest be justified in thy sayings"; or "when thou speakest", Psa 51:4, which is all one; that is, that thou mightest appear to be just, and faithful, and true in all thy promises, in every word that is gone out of thy mouth, which shall not be recalled and made void, on account of my sins; for though I have sinned, thou abidest faithful; and this also I declare with shame to myself, and with adoring views of thine unchangeable truth and goodness: "that thou mightest overcome"; that is, put to silence all such cavils and charges, as if the faith of God could be made void by the unfaithfulness of men: "when thou art judged"; when men will be so bold and daring to arraign thy truth and faithfulness, and contend with thee about them. This now is brought as a full proof, and is a full proof of this truth, that God is always true to his word, though men fail in theirs, and fall into sin. God kept his word with David concerning the stability of his kingdom, his successor, and the Messiah that should spring from him, though he acted a bad part against God. There is some little difference between these words as they stand in the Hebrew text of Psa 51:4; and as they are cited and rendered by the apostle, in the last clause of them; in the former it is, "that thou mightest be clear"; in the latter, "that thou mightest overcome". Now to vindicate the apostle's version, let it be observed, that the Hebrew word signifies to "overcome", as well as to "be clear"; of which instances may be given out of the Jewish writings. Says (l) Rabba; concerning an argument used by R. Chanina, in a controversy with other Rabbins, by this R. Chanina ben Antigonus, "hath overcome" them: and in another place (m), whosoever "overcomes" a king, they cast him into an empty ditch; where the gloss upon it is, he that overcomes a king by words, that is, by disputing with him, which is a disgrace to a king. So the word is used in the Syriac language in Joh 16:33. Moreover, the sense is the same, be it rendered either way; for as a man, when he overcomes his adversary, and carries his point against him, is clear of his charges and cavils, so God, when he overcomes in judgment, is clear of the imputations of wicked men. Another difference in the citation is, that what in the psalm is rendered "when thou judgest", is by the apostle, "when thou art judged", Psa 51:4, the word, which is used by the Psalmist, may be rendered either way; either "when thou judgest", as a word of the same form is rendered, when "thou speakest", in Psa 51:4; or "when anyone judges of thee", or "when thou art judged": a like instance is in Psa 46:2; and so it is rendered by the Septuagint, and followed by the apostle, though the word he uses may be considered in the middle voice, and may have an active signification in it; and the phrase, , may be rendered, "when thou judgest", and then both agree. (l) T. Bab. Niddah, fol. 52. 2. (m) T. Bab. Avoda Zara, fol. 10. 2. Sanhedrim, fol. 39. 1. & Becorot, fol. 8. 2.
Tyndale Open Study Notes
3:4 Of course not! The Greek mē genoito is an emphatic negation, popular in the diatribe style that Paul uses here and in several other passages in Romans (see 3:6, 31; 6:2, 15; 7:7, 13; 9:14; 11:1, 11). • As the Scriptures say: Paul quotes Ps 51:4, where David confessed his sin in having an adulterous relationship with Bathsheba (see 2 Sam 11:1-27). God punished David, and David admitted that God was proved right and would win his case in court—his punishment was entirely just. God is faithful to what he has said in the past—his entire revelation—and his words warn of punishment for sin even as they promise reward for obedience.
Romans 3:4
God Remains Faithful
3What if some did not have faith? Will their lack of faith nullify God’s faithfulness? 4Certainly not! Let God be true and every man a liar. As it is written: “So that You may be proved right when You speak and victorious when You judge.”
- Scripture
- Sermons
- Commentary
New Covenant Living
By Zac Poonen2.7K57:01New CovenantLUK 18:1ROM 3:4HEB 8:8In this sermon, the speaker emphasizes the importance of understanding the New Covenant and the concept of Sabbath rest for God's people. He encourages the audience to study Hebrews chapter 4, which speaks about this rest. The speaker also highlights God's will for believers, which includes rejoicing always and praying without ceasing. He warns against allowing the devil to rob Christians of their inheritance in Christ and references biblical examples of inconsistency in the lives of men of God.
(Demonology) Wizards Witches Sorcery Spiritism
By Willie Mullan2.1K1:14:16Demonology1SA 28:61SA 28:19ACT 8:5ROM 3:4In this sermon, the speaker addresses the audience and informs them that there are books available for purchase. However, these books are specifically made for the audience and not for the general public. The speaker then mentions a specific Bible verse, Ephesians 6:11, which encourages believers to put on the whole armor of God to stand against the devil's schemes. The speaker also references a story from the Bible where a woman communicates with the spirit of Samuel. The sermon concludes with a mention of horoscopes and how some people rely on them for guidance.
Attributes of God - Grace, Mercy, Longsuffering and Goodness
By William MacDonald1.7K37:04Attributes of GodEXO 34:6PSA 31:19PSA 52:1PSA 119:68NAM 1:3MAT 5:7LUK 6:36JHN 1:16ROM 3:4ROM 9:22ROM 12:8ROM 15:52CO 8:9EPH 2:81PE 5:10In this sermon, the speaker emphasizes the smallness of the earth in the vast universe, highlighting the insignificance of humanity in comparison. However, despite our sinful state, God showed incredible grace by sending his son Jesus to be born in Bethlehem and suffer on the cross for our salvation. The speaker lists numerous ways in which God has blessed and transformed believers, including indwelling them with the Holy Spirit and adopting them as his children. The sermon also emphasizes the importance of showing mercy, citing biblical verses that encourage believers to be merciful as God is merciful.
Hebrews 3
By Mark Turner9061:01:23PSA 118:8ISA 41:10MAT 6:33JHN 1:29ROM 3:4HEB 3:3HEB 4:12In this sermon, the speaker emphasizes the importance of trusting in the Lord rather than relying on worldly things or human intellect. He highlights the examples of Moses, David, and Solomon, who were not gods but still trusted in God for their salvation. The speaker also mentions the significance of the Old Covenant and how it was fulfilled in the person of Jesus Christ. The sermon concludes with a call to action, urging the congregation to turn the world upside down for Christ and reminding them of Jesus' humility and sacrifice on the cross.
Almost Twenty Centuries
By Vance Havner0Faith in ScriptureAssurance of ResurrectionJHN 20:29ROM 3:41CO 15:142TI 3:16HEB 11:1Vance Havner emphasizes the importance of faith in accepting the resurrection of Christ, arguing that after nearly twenty centuries, debates among church leaders still persist. He asserts that the Bible should be accepted as God's Word by faith, which leads to assurance and spiritual strength. Havner encourages believers to trust in the authenticity of Scripture rather than waiting for scholarly consensus, highlighting that God's Word proves itself to those who dare to believe. He concludes that the reliability of the Bible is evident to anyone willing to affirm and assert it.
1 John 2:21
By John Gill0DiscernmentTruthPSA 119:160JHN 14:6JHN 16:13ROM 3:4GAL 1:8EPH 4:142TI 3:161PE 5:81JN 2:212JN 1:7John Gill emphasizes the importance of knowing the truth in his sermon on 1 John 2:21, addressing the potential confusion among believers regarding the necessity of his writing. He clarifies that he writes not to those who are ignorant, but to those who already possess knowledge of the truth, which comes from God, Christ, the Spirit, and the Scriptures. Gill warns against the deceivers and heresies that contradict the Gospel, reminding the congregation that no lie can originate from the truth. His message serves to reinforce the believers' understanding and defense of their faith against false teachings.
Divine Jealousy for the Truth
By Horatius Bonar0Divine TruthAccountability to GodPSA 119:160PRO 30:5ISA 40:8JER 5:3MAT 24:35JHN 14:6ROM 3:42TI 3:16HEB 13:81JN 2:21Horatius Bonar emphasizes God's divine jealousy for the truth, asserting that His eyes are constantly watching over it to guard and maintain it. He explains that there is only one standard of truth, which is definite, universal, and found in the Bible, and that God holds humanity accountable to this standard. Bonar warns against the laxity of thought in contemporary society, urging individuals to believe in the truth rather than speculate. He calls for a commitment to truthfulness in thought and action, reminding listeners that the day will come when truth will be exalted and error will be condemned. Ultimately, Bonar encourages everyone to align their beliefs with God's unwavering standard of truth.
Running After Novelty in Theology
By Horatius Bonar0Truth vs. ErrorStability in FaithPSA 119:89PRO 3:5ISA 40:8MAL 3:6JHN 17:17ROM 3:42TI 3:16HEB 13:8JAS 1:51JN 2:20Horatius Bonar addresses the confusion and instability in contemporary theology, emphasizing the overwhelming number of changing opinions and doctrines that can lead believers astray. He warns against the allure of novelty and the dangers of fickle minds that easily shift from one belief to another without a firm foundation in truth. Bonar stresses the importance of a tender conscience and reliance on God's unchanging Word for guidance, rather than succumbing to the whims of popular opinion. He encourages believers to seek wisdom from God and to trust in the eternal truths of Scripture amidst the chaos of modern thought.
Of the Veracity of God.
By John Gill0God's TruthFaithfulness of GodNUM 23:19PSA 19:9PSA 100:5JER 18:7JHN 17:3ROM 3:4EPH 1:13TIT 1:2HEB 11:61JN 5:20John Gill emphasizes the veracity of God, asserting that God is true in His essence, works, and words. He explains that God's truth is intrinsic to His nature, distinguishing Him from fallible humans and false deities. Gill highlights that God's truth is eternal, immutable, and the foundation of His faithfulness, which is evident in His promises and actions throughout history. He also notes that God's truth is reflected in the reality of creation, providence, and grace, as well as in the person of Jesus Christ and the Scriptures. Ultimately, Gill calls believers to trust in the unwavering truth of God, which stands in contrast to the deceitfulness of man.
A Plea for the Serious Consideration of God
By Art Katz0Understanding God's SovereigntyThe Importance of FaithPSA 46:1PSA 46:10LAM 3:27JHN 7:17ROM 3:4Art Katz emphasizes the necessity of understanding God's character in the face of calamity, particularly addressing the Jewish community regarding the Holocaust. He argues that questioning God's moral intelligence or power reveals a deep-seated unbelief and a failure to recognize God's sovereignty. Katz urges believers to be still and acknowledge God, suggesting that true knowledge of Him is essential for spiritual survival and understanding. He warns against the dangers of murmuring against God, as it can lead to spiritual ruin, and calls for a return to a reverent acknowledgment of God's presence in history. Ultimately, he stresses that our eternal destinies hinge on our knowledge of God, which must be rooted in faith and obedience.
False Pretenders
By A.W. Tozer0DeceptionTrue FulfillmentPSA 116:11MAT 19:16ROM 3:4A.W. Tozer addresses the deception faced by those alienated from God, emphasizing that true peace and happiness cannot be found in worldly success, wealth, or morality. He highlights the futility of relying on external factors for inner fulfillment, citing the rich young ruler's quest for eternal life as a reflection of this emptiness. Tozer asserts that the human pursuit of success is fundamentally flawed, as it is based on false pretenses. He reminds us that every individual must confront their own spiritual condition and make a choice regarding their relationship with God.
Truth Established
By C.H. Spurgeon0Endurance of God's WordTruthPSA 25:5PSA 119:160PRO 12:19ISA 40:8JHN 1:14JHN 8:32ROM 3:4EPH 4:152TI 2:191PE 3:15C.H. Spurgeon emphasizes the enduring nature of truth as expressed in Proverbs 12:19, contrasting it with the fleeting nature of falsehood. He encourages believers to remain steadfast in declaring God's truth, despite facing opposition, as ultimate victory belongs to truth. Spurgeon highlights that while lies may seem to triumph temporarily, they are ultimately transient and will perish. He calls on the heart to align with truth in all matters, especially in relation to Jesus, who embodies grace and truth. The sermon serves as a reminder of the power and permanence of God's truth in a world filled with deception.
Divine Jealousy for the Truth.
By Horatius Bonar0Divine JealousyThe Importance of TruthPSA 25:5PSA 119:160PRO 12:22ISA 45:19JER 5:3JHN 8:32ROM 3:4EPH 4:152TI 3:161JN 1:6Horatius Bonar emphasizes God's divine jealousy for truth, as expressed in Jeremiah 5:3, where the Lord laments the absence of truth among His people. He asserts that God's watchful, discerning, and just eyes are always upon the truth, condemning falsehood in all its forms. Bonar explains that there is one universal standard of truth, which is the Bible, and that God demands belief in this truth rather than speculation. He warns against the laxity of thought in contemporary society, urging individuals to align their beliefs with God's unwavering standard. Ultimately, Bonar calls for a commitment to truth, reminding us that God's judgment will elevate truth and shame error on the day of the Lord.
The Excuses of Sinners Condemn God
By Charles Finney0RepentanceExcuses for SinJOB 40:8ISA 1:18EZK 18:30MAT 11:28LUK 13:3JHN 6:37ROM 3:4JAS 4:72PE 3:91JN 1:8Charles Finney emphasizes that every excuse for sin ultimately condemns God, arguing that such excuses imply that God is unjust or tyrannical. He meticulously examines common excuses like inability, lack of time, and peculiar circumstances, demonstrating that they not only misrepresent God's character but also insult Him. Finney asserts that these justifications prevent true repentance and self-acknowledgment of sin, urging sinners to abandon their excuses and recognize their obligation to obey God. He calls for a sincere response to God's demands, emphasizing that true repentance requires relinquishing all justifications for sin.
Exposition on Psalm 109
By St. Augustine0ROM 3:4St. Augustine delves into the Psalms, highlighting the prophetic nature of the text in relation to Judas, the betrayer of Christ, and the Jewish people who opposed Him. He emphasizes the consequences of betraying and slandering Christ, pointing out the importance of prayer and seeking God's mercy in times of need. St. Augustine reflects on the suffering and redemption of Christ, as well as the ultimate victory over persecutors through God's intervention and salvation.
Traits of a Genuine Bible Teacher
By R. Stanley0JHN 3:1ACT 13:1ACT 17:11ACT 20:27ROM 3:4EPH 4:11EPH 4:151TI 4:13HEB 4:121JN 2:27R. Stanley emphasizes the importance of falling in love with the Word of God rather than attracting followers to himself, highlighting the infallibility of the Bible compared to human fallibility. He fearlessly teaches God's Word, prioritizing truth over denominational beliefs, speaking with both firmness and gentleness. R. Stanley ensures to teach the 'whole' counsel of God, avoiding cherry-picking topics and balancing facts with feelings. He goes beyond teaching true and false doctrines, training others in the art of discernment and spiritual growth.
How to Smell a Rat
By Anton Bosch0NUM 23:19PSA 119:89PSA 119:105MAT 5:18MAT 24:35JHN 14:6JHN 17:17ROM 3:4HEB 5:14HEB 13:8Anton Bosch preaches about the importance of discerning between spiritual poison and spiritual food as Christians mature in their faith, emphasizing the need to distinguish between truth and error. He highlights that truth is absolute and unchanging, centered around Jesus Christ as the way, the truth, and the life. The sermon also stresses that the Bible is complete, with God's revelation delivered once and for all through Jesus Christ, and warns against false prophets claiming new revelations. Additionally, it underscores that God does not change His mind, and His Word is settled and unchanging, guiding believers to measure all teachings against the Bible to avoid falling into error.
Six Literal Days - Really?
By Anton Bosch0GEN 1:5PSA 14:1PSA 19:1ROM 1:20ROM 3:41JN 5:9Anton Bosch addresses the conflict between the Genesis account of creation and the theories of science, emphasizing the importance of trusting God's Word over man's interpretations. He highlights the flawed approach of many scientists who begin with the assumption that there is no God, leading to biased conclusions. Bosch challenges Christians not to compromise the literal truth of the Bible to fit in with scientific theories, stressing the significance of believing in the infallible testimony of God as the Creator.
The Pathway of Increasing Light
By Zac Poonen0PSA 119:105PSA 138:2PRO 4:12MAT 17:4MRK 7:6ACT 17:11ROM 1:25ROM 3:42TH 2:10Zac Poonen emphasizes the importance of walking in increasing light on the path of God's will, which is illuminated by His Word. He warns against elevating human traditions to the same level as God's Word, as seen in the rebuke Jesus gave to those who invalidated Scripture with their traditions. The Bereans are commended for their noble-mindedness in comparing teachings with Scripture, setting an example for believers to avoid being swayed by every doctrine and to always test teachings against the Word of God. Poonen highlights the need for humility and integrity in acknowledging and correcting mistaken beliefs, even if they come from respected individuals, as God values truth and honesty above all else.
The Gospel We Live
By Richard E. Bieber0MAT 6:31MAT 16:24MRK 1:14MRK 10:29LUK 9:62JHN 15:7JHN 16:2ROM 3:4Richard E. Bieber preaches about the robust gospel of Jesus, emphasizing the high promises and extreme demands it entails. He highlights the need for repentance, belief in the good news, and radical commitment to live out the gospel in its fullness. Bieber challenges believers to embrace the unfiltered, undiluted gospel of Jesus, which transforms ordinary people into passionate followers obsessed with the glory of God, prayer, love, and spreading the life-changing message. He warns against reducing the gospel to mere theological formulas, urging a return to the powerful, hopeful, and challenging message of Jesus.
- Adam Clarke
- Jamieson-Fausset-Brown
- John Gill
- Tyndale
Adam Clarke Bible Commentary
Apostle. God forbid - μη γενοιτο, Let it not be, far from it, by no means. Yea, let God be true, but every man a liar, etc. We must ever maintain that God is true, and that if, in any case, his promise appear to fail, it is because the condition on which it was given has not been complied with; which is the sense of what is written, Psa 51:4 : I acknowledge my sin, and condemn myself that the truth of thy promise (Sa2 7:15, Sa2 7:16) to establish my house and throne for ever, may be vindicated when thou shalt execute that dreadful threatening, (Sa2 12:10), that the sword shall never depart from my house, which I own I have brought upon myself by my own iniquity. Should any man say that the promise of God had failed toward him, let him examine his heart and his ways, and he will find that he has departed out of that way in which alone God could, consistently with his holiness and truth, fulfill the promise.
Jamieson-Fausset-Brown Bible Commentary
God forbid--literally, "Let it not be," that is, "Away with such a thought"--a favorite expression of our apostle, when he would not only repudiate a supposed consequence of his doctrine, but express his abhorrence of it. "The Scriptures do not authorize such a use of God's name as must have been common among the English translators of the Bible" [HODGE]. yea, let God be--held true, and every man a liar--that is, even though it should follow from this that every man is a liar. when thou art judged--so in Psa 51:4, according to the Septuagint; but in the Hebrew and in our version, "when thou judgest." The general sentiment, however, is the same in both--that we are to vindicate the righteousness of God, at whatever expense to ourselves.
John Gill Bible Commentary
God forbid, yea, let God be true, but every man a liar,.... Let no such thing ever enter into the minds of any, that the truth of God can be, or will be made of none effect by the want of faith in man; let it be always asserted and abode by; that God is true, faithful to his word, constant in his promises, and will always fulfil his purposes; though "every man is a liar", vain, fallacious, and inconstant: referring to Psa 116:11; as it is written, Psa 51:4; that thou mightest be justified in thy sayings, and mightest overcome when thou art judged. This is a proof that God is true, and stands to his word, though men are fallacious, inconstant, and wicked. God made a promise to David, that of the fruit of his body he would set upon his throne; that the Messiah should spring from him; that he would of his seed raise up unto Israel a Saviour. Now David sinned greatly in the case of Bathsheba, Sa2 11:3 (title), but his sin did not make of no effect the truth and faithfulness of God: though David showed himself to be a weak sinful man, yet God appeared true and faithful to every word of promise which he had sworn in truth to him; and therefore when he was brought to a sense of his evil, and at the same time to observe the invariable truth and faithfulness of God, said, "I acknowledge my transgression, &c. against thee, thee only have I sinned and done this evil in thy sight", Psa 51:3, which confession of sin I make, "that thou mightest be justified in thy sayings"; or "when thou speakest", Psa 51:4, which is all one; that is, that thou mightest appear to be just, and faithful, and true in all thy promises, in every word that is gone out of thy mouth, which shall not be recalled and made void, on account of my sins; for though I have sinned, thou abidest faithful; and this also I declare with shame to myself, and with adoring views of thine unchangeable truth and goodness: "that thou mightest overcome"; that is, put to silence all such cavils and charges, as if the faith of God could be made void by the unfaithfulness of men: "when thou art judged"; when men will be so bold and daring to arraign thy truth and faithfulness, and contend with thee about them. This now is brought as a full proof, and is a full proof of this truth, that God is always true to his word, though men fail in theirs, and fall into sin. God kept his word with David concerning the stability of his kingdom, his successor, and the Messiah that should spring from him, though he acted a bad part against God. There is some little difference between these words as they stand in the Hebrew text of Psa 51:4; and as they are cited and rendered by the apostle, in the last clause of them; in the former it is, "that thou mightest be clear"; in the latter, "that thou mightest overcome". Now to vindicate the apostle's version, let it be observed, that the Hebrew word signifies to "overcome", as well as to "be clear"; of which instances may be given out of the Jewish writings. Says (l) Rabba; concerning an argument used by R. Chanina, in a controversy with other Rabbins, by this R. Chanina ben Antigonus, "hath overcome" them: and in another place (m), whosoever "overcomes" a king, they cast him into an empty ditch; where the gloss upon it is, he that overcomes a king by words, that is, by disputing with him, which is a disgrace to a king. So the word is used in the Syriac language in Joh 16:33. Moreover, the sense is the same, be it rendered either way; for as a man, when he overcomes his adversary, and carries his point against him, is clear of his charges and cavils, so God, when he overcomes in judgment, is clear of the imputations of wicked men. Another difference in the citation is, that what in the psalm is rendered "when thou judgest", is by the apostle, "when thou art judged", Psa 51:4, the word, which is used by the Psalmist, may be rendered either way; either "when thou judgest", as a word of the same form is rendered, when "thou speakest", in Psa 51:4; or "when anyone judges of thee", or "when thou art judged": a like instance is in Psa 46:2; and so it is rendered by the Septuagint, and followed by the apostle, though the word he uses may be considered in the middle voice, and may have an active signification in it; and the phrase, , may be rendered, "when thou judgest", and then both agree. (l) T. Bab. Niddah, fol. 52. 2. (m) T. Bab. Avoda Zara, fol. 10. 2. Sanhedrim, fol. 39. 1. & Becorot, fol. 8. 2.
Tyndale Open Study Notes
3:4 Of course not! The Greek mē genoito is an emphatic negation, popular in the diatribe style that Paul uses here and in several other passages in Romans (see 3:6, 31; 6:2, 15; 7:7, 13; 9:14; 11:1, 11). • As the Scriptures say: Paul quotes Ps 51:4, where David confessed his sin in having an adulterous relationship with Bathsheba (see 2 Sam 11:1-27). God punished David, and David admitted that God was proved right and would win his case in court—his punishment was entirely just. God is faithful to what he has said in the past—his entire revelation—and his words warn of punishment for sin even as they promise reward for obedience.