Ver. 21 – But now the righteousness of God without the law is manifested, being witnessed by the law and the prophets.
Now, – that is to say, under the preaching of the Gospel – in the period of the revelation of the Messiah; for it denotes the time present, in opposition to that time when God appeared not to take notice of the state of the Gentile nations, as it is said (Acts 17:30), “The times of this ignorance God winked at, but now commandeth all men everywhere to repent.” And also in opposition to the legal economy respecting the Jews, as again it is said (John 1:17), “The law was given by Moses, but grace and truth came by Jesus Christ.” This is what the Scriptures call “the fulness of times” (Ephesians 1:10; Galatians 4:4). “The last days” (Isaiah 2:2; Hebrews 1:2; Acts 2:17; 1 John 2:18). “The acceptable year of the Lord” (Isaiah 61:2). “Now is the accepted time; behold, now is the day of salvation” (2 Corinthians 6:2). The day of the Saviour that Abraham saw (John 8:56).
The righteousness of God – This is one of the most important expressions in the Scriptures. It frequently occurs both in the Old Testament and the New; it stands connected with the argument of the whole of the first five chapters of this Epistle, and signifies that fulfillment of the law which God has provided, by the imputation of which sinners are saved. Although perfectly clear in itself, its meaning has been involved in much obscurity by the learned labours of some who know not the truth, and by the perversions of others by whom it has been greatly corrupted. By many it has been misunderstood and has, in general, been very slightly noticed even by those whose views on the subject are correct and scriptural. To consider its real signification is the more necessary, as it does not appear always to receive that attention from Christians which its importance demands. When the question is put, why is the Gospel the power of God unto salvation? how few give the clear and unfaltering answer of the Apostle, Because therein is THE RIGHTEOUSNESS OF GOD revealed.
From: Exposition of the Epistle to the Romans by Robert Haldane; reprint (Edinburgh: The Banner of Truth Trust, 1958), pp. 125-126. Reprinted from the 9th edition (1874).
Robert Haldane (1764-1842) was a Scottish evangelist, Bible commentator, and author. His great commentary on Romans was originally published in three volumes (1835-1839). He was also the author of Evidences and Authority of Divine Revelation and The Authenticity and Inspiration of the Scriptures.
