The Standard That Exposes Us
Written for Bible Journey Plan. Our editorial standards.
Therefore by the deeds of the law there shall no flesh be justified in his sight: for by the law is the knowledge of sin.
Romans 3:20 KJV
A mirror can show dirt on your face, but staring into it does not wash the dirt away. God's law exposes our sin with far greater seriousness. It tells the truth about what is wrong; our failure to keep it cannot become the means by which we earn acceptance.
Comparing yourself with someone who behaves worse will not solve the problem. God's standard is righteous, and all have sinned. We need the redemption He has provided through Jesus Christ, who died for our sins and rose again.
Do not turn Bible commands into a ladder you imagine will finally make God owe you salvation. Receive Christ by faith. Then let His Word teach you how a life belonging to Him should be lived.
The law's exposure is not a reason to hide from the truth. It helps remove the false confidence that keeps a person from recognizing his need. An honest diagnosis can be uncomfortable and still be merciful. The Saviour is sufficient for the need Scripture reveals, and our hope belongs in His finished work rather than our best effort to appear clean.
Keep the passage in context
Paul explains that the law gives knowledge of sin and cannot justify sinful people through their works. The following verses direct attention to God's righteousness through faith in Jesus Christ.
Read further: Romans 3 in the King James Bible.