The Law Producing Accountability for Sin
 Now we know that whatever the
law says, it says to those who are under the law, that every
mouth may be stopped, and the entire world may
become guilty before God... For by the law is
the knowledge of sin. (Romans 3:19-20)
God's law speaks to those who
are under the law. This would certainly include the Jews, for the law of God
was given to them in writing (first engraved on stones by God, then written on
parchment in the Holy Scriptures). Yet, the law speaks to the Gentiles as well,
since they have it inscribed upon their consciences. "[The Gentiles]
show the work of the law written in their hearts, their conscience also bearing
witness" (Romans 2:15). Thus, every Jew and every Gentile begins life
under the law.
Remember, when the law speaks, it is saying,
"be holy, be loving, and be perfect." The result of all people having
received this message (either externally in writing, or internally upon the
conscience) is that "every mouth [is] stopped." What would we say if we stood before God, and He
evaluated our lives by His law? How could we answer if God said, "Here is
your life; here is My law; now, give an account of yourself." Our "mouths
[would be] stopped." We could provide no excuse, explanation, or
justification.
The law produces accountability to God. And this
accountability is universal. "All the world [is] guilty before God."
There are no exceptions. Everyone in the entire world is included. The law of
God reveals to all humanity what sin really is. Sin is not a cultural phenomenon. It is a divine
revelation of what is absolutely unacceptable before God in light of His holy
character. "By the law is the knowledge of sin."
Man would have no insight into this matter were it not for the law of God.
"I would not have known sin except through the law" (Romans 7:7a). Murder, adultery, stealing, lying, and
coveting are all revealed to mankind by God's law. "For I would not
have known covetousness unless the law had said, 'You shall not covet'"
(Romans 7:7b). Through God's law we are all accountable to
Him for our sins.
O
Lord God of holiness and love and all that is perfect, Your holy law has
stopped my mouth. I have no excuse for my spiritual failure before Your perfect
standard. What I have read in Your word confirms the convictions of my heart.
My life would stand forever guilty in Your sight, if it were not for Your
forgiving, justifying grace. Thank You for providing forgiveness of my sins and
justifying me, when I could offer no justifying words or deeds of my own. As I
look at the world of humanity all around me, please remind me that they are
guilty before You, until they come to Jesus as their Lord and Savior. This
prayer I humbly offer in Jesus' name, Amen.
Adapted from Day By Day By Grace
- Bob Hoekstra
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Rev. Telema W. Okobi, 