Romans 3:9: What Then? Are We Jews Any Better Off? No, Not At All.

Romans 3:9
[9] What then? Are we Jews any better off? No, not at all. For we have already charged that all, both Jews and Greeks, are under sin, (ESV)

There have been a few times when I have participated in celebrating a Passover feast. It was rich with historical and theological meaning. There are many traditions and celebrations in the Jewish faith that are very beautiful and meaningful. The Apostle Paul was a Jew. He would have been very familiar with all of the traditions of his faith. Listen to Paul describe his background:

Acts 22:3
[3] “I am a Jew, born in Tarsus in Cilicia, but brought up in this city, educated at the feet of Gamaliel according to the strict manner of the law of our fathers, being zealous for God as all of you are this day. (ESV)

For Paul to say that he was educated at the feet of Gamaliel might be similar to someone saying that they had a Doctorate degree from Harvard University. He was highly educated in all manner of the Jewish Law. He was zealous for God. He was passionate for his Jewish faith. Does that make him any better off? Or are any Jews better off? NO!

Jews and Gentiles have equal playing field. We are all bound by sin. This can be a discouraging reality. We all have our traditions and many are even passionate about our faith. The fact is that if our faith is not in Jesus Christ we will remain in our sin, without hope, and eternally lost. As has been said before, "It is level ground at the foot of the cross."

Do you celebrate your own tradition and history? Remember that none of that will save you from sin. You must place your faith in Jesus Christ, whether you are a Jew or a Gentile.