New Testament
Romans 3:4
The Clear Bible Translation matches the King James Version, written at a 10th-grade reading level in plain English
At a Glance
In Romans 3:4, Paul emphasizes the absolute truth of God compared to human fallibility.
- Author
- Paul the apostle
- Written
- Around AD 57
- Genre
- Letter (epistle)
- Original Audience
- Christians in Rome
Absolutely not! Let God be true and every person a liar. As it is written, 'So that you may be justified in your words, and prevail when you are judged.'
God forbid: yea, let God be true, but every man a liar; as it is written, That thou mightest be justified in thy sayings, and mightest overcome when thou art judged.
Verse Analysis
Plain-English insight for readers
In Romans 3:4, Paul emphasizes the absolute truth of God compared to human fallibility. He asserts that God is always truthful, while humans often lie or misrepresent the truth. This statement is supported by scripture, highlighting that God's words are justified and true. When judged, God's truth will prevail, demonstrating His righteousness. This verse serves as a reminder that despite human shortcomings, God's integrity remains unblemished. It encourages believers to trust in God's promises and to recognize that human opinions can be flawed. Ultimately, it reassures us that God's judgment is fair and just, and that He will always be vindicated in His words and actions, regardless of human judgment or misunderstanding.
Related Bible verses
How to apply Romans 3:4 to your life
This verse encourages us to trust in God's truth over human opinions. In our daily lives, we should seek to align our beliefs and actions with God's word, recognizing that His truth is unwavering. When faced with judgment or criticism, remember that God's perspective is what truly matters, and His truth will ultimately prevail.
Curated for this public verse page. Romans Summary
Frequently Asked Questions
Quick, clear answers about this verse
What does Romans 3:4 mean?
Romans 3:4 emphasizes that God is always truthful, while humans can be deceitful. It asserts that God's truth will prevail, and His words are justified, even when judged by others.
What is the meaning of 'let God be true, but every man a liar' in Romans 3:4?
This phrase highlights the contrast between God's absolute truth and human dishonesty. It suggests that while people may misrepresent the truth, God's integrity remains perfect and unchallenged.
How does Romans 3:4 relate to divine judgment?
The verse indicates that God's truth will prevail in the face of judgment. It reassures that when God is judged, His righteousness will be evident, and He will be justified in His words.
What themes are present in Romans 3:4?
Key themes in Romans 3:4 include the truth of God, human fallibility, scriptural authority, justification, divine judgment, and the faithfulness of God.

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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