As far as righteousness before God is concerned, "there is no difference, for all have sinned and fall short of the glory of God" (v22-23). "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" (v21-22). And it was accomplised by God's presentation of Jesus as a sacrifice of atonement. Paul is here, however, still addressing the Jews in the Roman audience; he, therefore, adds an important concluding note. Since this righteousness comes from faith, not by observance of the law, there can now be no cause for boasting. This righteousness from God apart from the law," however, does not mean that we can "nullify the law by this faith? Not at all! Rather, we uphold the law" (v31).
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