New Testament

Romans 3:14

The Clear Bible Translation matches the King James Version, written at a 10th-grade reading level in plain English

At a Glance

In Romans 3:14, the Apostle Paul highlights the negative speech of those who are unrepentant and sinful.

Author: Paul the apostle
Written: Around AD 57
Genre: Letter (epistle)
Original Audience: Christians in Rome

CBTClear Bible Translation

'Their mouth is full of cursing and bitterness.'

KJVKing James Version

Whose mouth is full of cursing and bitterness:

Verse Analysis

Plain-English insight for readers

In Romans 3:14, the Apostle Paul highlights the negative speech of those who are unrepentant and sinful. The phrase 'mouth is full of cursing and bitterness' suggests that their words are not only harmful but also reflect a deep-seated anger and resentment. This verse is part of a larger argument where Paul is demonstrating the universal sinfulness of humanity, showing that everyone, regardless of their background, has fallen short of God's glory. Cursing refers to speaking ill of others or invoking harm, while bitterness indicates a heart filled with resentment. Together, these words paint a picture of a person whose speech is tainted by their inner turmoil and moral failure. This serves as a reminder of the importance of our words and the condition of our hearts, as they often reveal our true character and relationship with God. Explore related communication.

Key themes

Related Bible verses

How to apply Romans 3:14 to your life

We should be mindful of our words and the impact they have on others. Instead of cursing or expressing bitterness, we can choose to speak words of encouragement and kindness. This not only reflects a transformed heart but also fosters healthier relationships and a more positive environment.

Curated for this public verse page. Romans Summary

Frequently Asked Questions

Quick, clear answers about this verse

What does Romans 3:14 mean?

Romans 3:14 highlights the negative speech of unrepentant individuals, indicating that their words are filled with cursing and bitterness, reflecting their inner turmoil and moral failure.

What is the meaning of 'cursing' in Romans 3:14?

In Romans 3:14, 'cursing' refers to speaking ill of others or wishing harm upon them, indicating a harmful and negative attitude that stems from a sinful heart.

What is the significance of 'bitterness' in Romans 3:14?

'Bitterness' in Romans 3:14 signifies a deep-seated resentment and anger, suggesting that the person's speech is a reflection of their troubled inner state.

How can we apply Romans 3:14 in our lives?

We can apply Romans 3:14 by being mindful of our words, choosing to speak with kindness and encouragement instead of cursing or expressing bitterness, which promotes healthier relationships.

Book Summary

The Book of Romans

Romans 1: Paul's Greeting and the Wrath of God Against Ungodliness

Paul introduces himself as a servant of Jesus Christ, called to be an apostle and separated to preach the gospel of God. He says this gospel concerns God's Son, Jesus Christ our Lord, who is made of the seed of David according to the flesh and declared to be the Son of God with power by the resurrection from the dead. Paul explains that through Christ he receives grace and apostleship to bring about obedience of faith among all nations. He addresses the believers in Rome as those loved by God and called to be saints, and he gives thanks for their faith, which is spoken of throughout the whole world. He tells them he prays continually to visit them and longs to see them so he may share a spiritual gift and be comforted together with them by mutual faith.

Paul says he is ready to preach the gospel in Rome and declares he is not ashamed of it, because it is the power of God to salvation for everyone who believes, to the Jew first and also to the Greek. He states that the righteousness of God is revealed in the gospel from faith to faith. He then describes the wrath of God revealed from heaven against all ungodliness and unrighteousness of men who suppress the truth. He says people know God through creation, yet they do not glorify him as God. Their thinking becomes empty, and their foolish heart is darkened. They exchange the glory of the incorruptible God for images of corruptible creatures. God gives them over to uncleanness, dishonorable passions, and a reprobate mind. They fill themselves with all manner of unrighteousness and continue in these things while approving others who do the same. Romans 2: God's Righteous Judgment Paul addresses a person who judges others and says that anyone who judges commits the same kinds of sins. He warns that God's judgment is according to truth and that those who continue in evil will not escape. He explains that God will render to every man according to his deeds: eternal life to those who continue in well-doing, and indignation and wrath to those who obey unrighteousness. He says there is no respect of persons with God. Gentiles who sin without the law perish without the law, and Jews who sin under the law are judged by the law.

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