If every Christian would regularly read chapters one, two, and three and remember they fit in there with everyone else, Christianity would be better for it. Paul seems to write every epistle with a deep awareness of who he once was and who he would still be were it not for the gospel of Jesus Christ. The crescendo of the argument, at least in the first three chapters is found in the verse most Christians can quote: “for all have sinned and fall short of the glory of God” (Rom. 3:23). The way that Paul gets to this truth, however, is worth noting. 

Paul unquestionably argues in Romans for the overall guilt of humanity. He doesn’t say, that “some” have sinned, or even “most” have sinned. Paul states, “all have sinned.” Every single human being is guilty of violating the will of a holy God, and as he demonstrates throughout chapters 1-3, stand justly condemned by God. Every single person should go to hell. Hell, of course, is the place of eternal separation from God. Paul does not hide this fact, nor does he attempt to soften it. God is within His rights, not only as God but, as a holy God to send every person there. The bigger question, and the crux of Paul’s epistle is, why doesn’t God simply do that? Because as Paul came to understand, God doesn’t want people to be lost. 

For three chapters Paul argues for the lostness of the world. He defends God’s right to execute wrath, to stand in judgment, and in the end, to condemn the world. God sent Jesus so that humanity could be spared their just punishment. Jesus functions as our ultimate Judge, but also as our Attorney. Through Jesus Christ, we can be justified by God, and we can be pronounced righteous. A careful reading of chapters 1-3 would keep us more humble and appreciative of the gospel. Humility would keep us grounded when facing conflict in the world. It would also help us to be more patient with outsiders and more zealous for evangelism. 

We too have tasted the overwhelming significance of the “gospel of Jesus Christ” as the “power of God for salvation to everyone who believes” (Rom. 1:16).