New Testament
Romans 3:15
The Clear Bible Translation matches the King James Version, written at a 10th-grade reading level in plain English
At a Glance
In Romans 3:15, the phrase 'Their feet are swift to shed blood' highlights the eagerness of some individuals to commit violence and harm others.
- Author
- Paul the apostle
- Written
- Around AD 57
- Genre
- Letter (epistle)
- Original Audience
- Christians in Rome
'Their feet are swift to shed blood.
Their feet are swift to shed blood:
Verse Analysis
Plain-English insight for readers
In Romans 3:15, the phrase 'Their feet are swift to shed blood' highlights the eagerness of some individuals to commit violence and harm others. This verse is part of a larger argument by Paul, where he describes the sinful nature of humanity. It reflects a moral decay where people act impulsively and without regard for the sanctity of life. The imagery of swift feet suggests that these individuals do not hesitate to engage in wrongdoing, indicating a serious problem in their character and choices. This verse serves as a reminder of the consequences of sin and the need for redemption. It emphasizes the importance of self-control and the pursuit of righteousness, contrasting the destructive nature of sin with the call to live a life that honors God and respects others. Overall, this verse serves as a sobering reflection on human behavior and the need for divine intervention to transform hearts and minds.
Related Bible verses
How to apply Romans 3:15 to your life
This verse challenges us to examine our own actions and attitudes towards others. It encourages us to cultivate a spirit of peace and to be slow to anger. By practicing self-control and compassion, we can counteract the tendency towards violence and promote healing in our communities.
Curated for this public verse page. Romans Summary
Frequently Asked Questions
Quick, clear answers about this verse
What does Romans 3:15 mean?
Romans 3:15 means that some people are quick to commit acts of violence and harm others. It illustrates the sinful nature of humanity and the moral decay present in society.
What is the meaning of 'swift to shed blood' in Romans 3:15?
The phrase 'swift to shed blood' in Romans 3:15 indicates a readiness and eagerness to engage in violence. It reflects a serious issue in character where individuals act impulsively and without regard for life.
How does Romans 3:15 relate to self-control?
Romans 3:15 relates to self-control by contrasting the impulsive nature of those who commit violence with the call for individuals to practice restraint and compassion in their actions.
What themes are present in Romans 3:15?
The themes present in Romans 3:15 include violence, sinfulness, human nature, moral decay, redemption, and the importance of self-control in our lives.

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.
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