In chapter three, Paul addresses the question, if God is giving out grace, then is there any benefit of being Jewish and practicing the law. Paul, also a Jew, responds, absolutely.

First, the Jews carry the legacy of being the oracles of God. Second, if some of the chosen along the way were unrighteous, it doesn’t make the gift less valuable. The Jews are first to receive both the law and forgiveness. Third, the Jews experience and practice their legacy of faith through acts of obedience to the words of the prophets. Finally, Paul reiterates that God is not the God of only the Jew, but the Gentile (non-Jewish) as well. It’s the same God who justifies both the Jew and Gentile. Forgiveness of sins doesn’t diminish the sacrifice of Christ, but shows its value, so believers should continue to uphold the law. 

As a Christian reading Paul’s words, I can appreciate my own lifelong journey of faith. The history of Christianity has been fraught, and every day I strive to live better than I have before. We should honor the path of faith of those who went before us, repent for our own mistakes, accept forgiveness. The laws are for our benefit, so we should continue to live righteous lives while extending both truth and love to those who walk with us and those coming after us.

All fall.