Romans 3:27
Where is boasting then? It is excluded. By what law? of works? Nay: but by the law of faith.
Romans 3:27
This verse answers a natural question: where does boasting fit in with faith and grace? The conclusion is that boasting is excluded because justification is not by any human “law” or works but by the “law of faith.” The phrase “law of faith” contrasts with the Mosaic code or human achievement as the basis for righteousness. The immediate context is Paul’s polemic against both Jewish reliance on circumcision and Gentile self-sufficiency. By highlighting that faith, not works, is the ground of salvation, Paul redefines boasting as inappropriate for anyone. The “law” language is not against law but against relying on law-keeping for acceptance before God.
This verse crystallizes the centrality of faith and the rejection of boasting in salvation. It emphasizes that human merit is incompatible with the gracious gift of justification. It guards the church from a self-congratulatory posture and sustains a gospel-centered, humble posture before God and others.
Practically, this means humility should mark believers’ posture in community. In worship, ministry, and service, avoid signaling superiority for how “holy” you are; instead, celebrate God’s grace that unites diverse people. In personal life, resist bragging about spiritual achievements and instead give credit to Christ. In evangelism, invite others to share in this grace, not to perform.
Cross-References: Galatians 3:11; Ephesians 2:8–9; Romans 4:2; 1 Corinthians 1:29–31