February 17, 2008

This passage serves as a key turning point in Paul's letter to the Romans. Until now he has been demonstrating our sinfulness before God, the fact that we have nothing to commend ourselves to God, and that we cannot possibly do anything to earn God's favor. Now Paul shifts to show how we can receive God's favor and mercy—through faith in Jesus Christ. Jesus becomes not simply our advocate, but he becomes our substitute, taking upon himself our sins and punishment and giving us his righteousness—a righteousness that comes only through him. The faith that receives this gift of righteousness is a faith that knows the gospel, believes the gospel, and entrusts ourselves to Christ.