“For we maintain that a man is justified by faith apart from observing the law.” (Romans 3:28, NIV 1984).
My Musings – Why is this important? Because “no one will be declared righteous in [God’s] sight by observing the law,” (Romans 3:20, NIV 1984). If they could, then Jesus’ death on the cross was unnecessary. If we insist on being held accountable to God based on “whatever the law says,” apart from faith in Jesus Christ, then we will be judged by the law. Judged unrighteous.
“But now a righteousness from God, apart from law, has been made known, to which the Law and the Prophets testify. This righteousness from God comes through faith in Jesus Christ to all who believe.” (Romans 3:21–22, NIV 1984). The distinction couldn’t be clearer. “All” through faith, opposed to “no one” by “law.”
“The Lord looks down from heaven on the sons of men to see if there are any who understand, any who seek God. All have turned aside, they have together become corrupt; there is no one who does good, not even one.” (Psalm 14:2–3, NIV 1984). That is to say, there is no one who obeys the righteous requirements of the law. Therefore, Christ had to do it on our behalf.
My Advice– One might think, surely there must be another way to be declared righteous in God’s eyes. If there was, then God would have been willing to spare His Son. “Father, if you are willing, take this cup from me; yet not my will, but yours be done.” (Luke 22:42, NIV 1984). And, of course, we know that He did not spare His Son. So, let’s not risk eternity pursuing another way. There isn’t one.
The Brew Is A Musing 