Romans 3:10 – “As it is written: ‘There is no one righteous, not even one.’”

Extended Explanation

Paul is making a powerful statement here: no one is righteous. Not a single person meets God’s perfect standard. This verse is part of a larger passage where Paul builds his argument that all people—both Jews and Gentiles—are guilty before God.

The phrase “as it is written” shows that Paul is quoting from the Old Testament, specifically Psalm 14:1-3 and Psalm 53:1-3. These passages describe humanity’s complete corruption due to sin. By referencing these verses, Paul is proving that this is not a new idea—God has been saying this for centuries.

The phrase “not even one” emphasizes that this applies to everyone. There are no exceptions. Even the most moral, religious, or well-respected person still falls short of God’s righteousness. This verse confronts the false belief that people can be “good enough” on their own.

Paul’s message is clear: everyone is a sinner in need of God’s grace.

Historical Context

Paul was writing to a mixed audience of Jews and Gentiles in Rome. Many Jews believed that because they had the Law, they were more righteous than the Gentiles. On the other hand, some Gentiles might have thought they were morally good compared to others.

In Jewish tradition, righteousness was often associated with following the Law. But Paul is making it clear that even those who have the Law are not righteous on their own. No one can stand before God and claim they are good enough.

Paul’s statement also challenged the common Greek and Roman belief that some people were naturally virtuous. The ancient world valued wisdom, philosophy, and moral teaching, but Paul is saying that human wisdom and morality cannot make a person truly righteous.

By quoting the Old Testament, Paul is showing that this truth applies to all people, regardless of their background or beliefs.

Theological Implications

1. No One is Good Enough for Heaven on Their Own – No one meets God’s perfect standard, no matter how religious or moral they may be.
2. Sin is Universal – This verse proves that sin affects every person. It is not just a problem for the worst criminals—it is a problem for all of humanity.
3. People Cannot Earn Their Own Salvation – Since no one is righteous, no one can be saved by their own good deeds. Salvation must come from God.
4. God is the Only Source of Righteousness – If no one is righteous, the only way to be made right with God is through Him. This sets up Paul’s later teaching on justification by faith in Jesus.

This verse lays the foundation for the gospel. If no one is righteous, then everyone needs a Savior.

Literary Analysis

Paul’s use of “as it is written” gives his argument authority. He is not just stating his opinion—he is quoting Scripture to prove his point.

The repetition of “no one” and “not even one” is meant to remove any possible exception. There is no loophole here—every single person is included.

By using Old Testament references, Paul also connects his argument to the larger story of the Bible. This is not a new teaching; it has always been true that humanity is sinful and needs God’s righteousness.

Biblical Cross-References

• Psalm 14:1-3 – “There is no one who does good, not even one.” Paul directly quotes this passage.
• Ecclesiastes 7:20 – “Indeed, there is no one on earth who is righteous, no one who does what is right and never sins.” This confirms that sin is universal.
• Isaiah 64:6 – “All our righteous acts are like filthy rags.” Even our best efforts fall short of God’s standard.
• Romans 3:23 – “For all have sinned and fall short of the glory of God.” This verse expands on the truth of Romans 3:10.
• 1 John 1:8 – “If we claim to be without sin, we deceive ourselves and the truth is not in us.” Denying our sinfulness is self-deception.

What This Verse Means for Today’s Christian

This verse is a reality check for anyone who thinks they are “good enough” to earn God’s favor. Many people believe that if they live a decent life, avoid major sins, and treat others well, they will go to heaven. But Paul’s words completely destroy that idea.

Even the most religious, generous, and kind person is still a sinner who falls short of God’s perfect standard. This means that:

• Church attendance cannot save you.
• Being a “good person” cannot save you.
• Doing good deeds cannot erase your sin.

Instead of relying on our own righteousness, this verse pushes us to depend fully on Jesus.

For Christians, this verse is also a reminder to stay humble. We should never look down on others, because we are just as sinful as they are. The only difference is that we have been saved by God’s grace.

How This Verse Relates to a Loving God

At first, this verse might seem harsh. But it actually reveals God’s deep love.

• God tells us the truth about our condition. A loving doctor does not hide a fatal disease from a patient—he tells them the truth so they can seek treatment. Likewise, God shows us our sin so we can turn to Him for salvation.
• God does not give up on sinful people. Even though no one is righteous, God still offers salvation through Jesus.
• God’s love is not based on performance. Since no one is righteous on their own, God’s love is not something we earn—it is freely given.

God’s love shines brightest when we understand our deep need for His grace.

How This Verse Connects to Jesus Christ

Jesus is the only person who ever lived a perfectly righteous life. He is the exception to Romans 3:10.

• He was completely righteous. 1 Peter 2:22 says, “He committed no sin, and no deceit was found in his mouth.”
• He took our place. 2 Corinthians 5:21 says, “God made him who had no sin to be sin for us, so that in him we might become the righteousness of God.”
• Through Him, we are made righteous. Romans 5:19 says, “For just as through the disobedience of the one man (Adam) the many were made sinners, so also through the obedience of the one man (Jesus) the many will be made righteous.”

The gospel is this: Since no one is righteous, Jesus became our righteousness. Through faith in Him, we are made right with God.

Questions for Reflection and Discussion

1. What does this verse teach us about human nature?
2. How does this verse challenge people who believe they are “good enough” for heaven?
3. Why is it important to acknowledge our sinfulness before God?
4. How does Jesus provide the righteousness that we lack?
5. How can this verse help us share the gospel with others?

This verse is a powerful reminder that we are all sinners in need of a Savior. The good news is that God has provided that Savior in Jesus Christ. Instead of relying on our own goodness, we must trust in His perfect righteousness.