"But now a righteousness from God, apart from law, has been made known, to which the Law and the Prophets testify. this righteousness from God comes through faith in Jesus Christ to all who believe. There is no difference, for all have sinned and fall short of the glory of God, and are justified freely by his grace through the redemption that came by Christ Jesus."-- Romans 3:21-24

To a 21st century person, these words are confusing.  Who is Paul talking about when he uses terms like "Jews" and "Gentiles"?  Who was he talking to?  Paul was a powerful figure in his day.  He was a practicing Jew and a Roman citizen.  He was a scholar and a respected authority on the law.  And from his faith upbringing, he was taught that Israel were the people of God.  They were God's people, and in their mind, God belonged to them as well.  But Paul is setting the record straight, and telling his own people that they do not have exclusive claim to the Almighty.  He tells them that all people (Gentiles were non-Jews) belong to God, and that through Christ, all can know life and salvation in him.  This was hard to swallow for those who felt as though they belonged to the ultimate club.  They were insiders who had to share the prize they held on to so dearly.  But how can any lay claim to God over another?  It sounds silly in our day, doesn't it?  Or does it?  Have you recently heard anyone speaking condescendingly to others "by the authority of God" or "in the name of Jesus Christ"?  There are still plenty around who have no problem using the Lord's name in vain for their own agenda and gain. 

Readings:  1 Chronicles 22:1-23:32; Romans 3:9-31; Psalm 12:1-8; Proverbs 19:13-14