Romans 3:26

"whom God sent to be an atoning sacrifice through faith in his blood, for a demonstration of his righteousness through the passing over of prior sins, in God’s forbearance;"

Key Reflection

Romans 3:26 reveals that God sent his Son as a sacrifice to atone for sins, making righteousness available through faith in his blood. This passage underscores how God's justice and mercy are reconciled; the righteousness being demonstrated is not just about past sins being overlooked but about God's patience and willingness to forgive, even before the law was given. For the original audience of Romans, this would have been profoundly significant as it addressed their concern that non-Jews could also receive God’s salvation without fully adhering to the Mosaic laws.

From the Scholars: Barnes' Notes

Verse 26. At this time. The time now since the Saviour has come, now is the time when he manifests it. That he might be just. This verse contains the substance of the gospel. The word "just" here does not mean benevolent, or merciful, though it may sometimes have that meaning, (See Barnes "Mt 1:19, also See Barnes "Joh 17:25") but it refers to the fact that God had retained the integrity of his character as a moral Governor; that he had shown a due regard to his law, and to the penalty of the law, by his plan of salvation. Should he forgive sinners without an atonement, justice would be sacrificed and abandoned.

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