Righteousness That’s Not Your Own (Romans 3:21-31)

Summary In this sermon, Dr. Michael Easley explores Romans 3:21–31. Through Paul’s words, we’re confronted with the sobering reality that all people are equally sinful and fall short of God’s glory. The good news is that God makes sinners righteous, not through human effort, but through His grace, accomplished by the redemptive work of Jesus Christ. Dr. Easley walks through Paul’s logic, showing how God's righteousness is revealed apart from the Law, through faith in Christ alone. He explains that justification is a gift—completely unearned and undeserved. It was made possible because Jesus bore the wrath we deserved. The cross is not just a moment of forgiveness, but the very place where God’s justice and mercy meet. As Dr. Easley explains, this truth dismantles religious pride. There’s no room to boast. All have sinned. All need grace. And anyone—Jew or Gentile—can be justified by faith. In a culture that minimizes sin and elevates self, this sermon re-centers believers on God’s incredible mercy and the unmatched significance of Christ’s finished work. Takeaways Jesus redefined the Law by exposing sin not just in actions, but in the heart. All people, regardless of status or background, are equally sinful before God. God's righteousness is revealed apart from the Law and is accessed by faith alone. Justification is a free gift given through grace, not earned by works. Jesus' sacrifice satisfies God's justice and redeems us from sin’s penalty. Because salvation is entirely God’s work, there is no room for boasting. To read the book of Romans, click here. Click here for other Michael Easley Sermons.