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Study 06 of 49

The Universal Verdict

All under sin — the levelling ground of the gospel

Hands-free narration of this study — good for the car.

Synopsis

Before Scripture offers a remedy it closes every escape. Jew and Gentile, moral and immoral, religious and irreligious are shut up together under condemnation, so that grace may come to all on the same terms. This is not pessimism but the necessary clearing of the ground.

Key points

  • The verdict is universal: there is none righteous, no not one.
  • Comparative goodness is irrelevant before an absolute standard.
  • The purpose of the verdict is to make every mouth stop and every hand open.

Key texts

  • Romans 3:9-23
  • Galatians 3:22
  • Isaiah 53:6
  • Psalm 14:2-3
  1. Comprehension

    1. Why does Paul spend three chapters proving universal guilt before announcing righteousness by faith?

  2. Scripture

    2. Read Romans 3:19. What is the stated purpose of the law's testimony?

  3. Doctrinal Clarity

    3. Explain why comparing ourselves with others gives false comfort.

  4. Contrast

    4. Contrast the moral man's danger with the immoral man's danger.

  5. Scripture

    5. Read Galatians 3:22. Why has Scripture 'concluded all under sin'?

  6. Doctrinal Clarity

    6. How does universal condemnation become good news?

  7. Application

    7. Which of your own 'better than' comparisons has protected you from grace?

  8. Application

    8. How would you preach this verdict without crushing the hearer?