New Testament

Romans 4:15

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

At a Glance

This verse explains that the law of God is important because it defines what is right and wrong.

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

CBTClear Bible Translation

For the law brings wrath, because where there is no law, there is no transgression.

KJVKing James Version

Because the law worketh wrath: for where no law is, there is no transgression.

Verse Analysis

Plain-English insight for readers

This verse explains that the law of God is important because it defines what is right and wrong. When there is no law, people cannot be held accountable for their actions since there is no standard to measure against. The presence of the law reveals human shortcomings and leads to God's wrath because it shows how far people fall short of His standards. In essence, the law highlights transgressions, making it clear that without it, there can be no violation or sin. This understanding emphasizes the need for grace and faith, as it is through faith that one can be justified, rather than through adherence to the law alone. The law serves as a guide, but it also brings awareness of sin, which is why it is crucial to recognize its role in the relationship between humanity and God.

Key themes

Related Bible verses

How to apply Romans 4:15 to your life

Understanding the role of the law helps us recognize our need for grace. Instead of relying solely on our ability to follow rules, we should focus on faith in God’s mercy. This perspective encourages humility and a deeper relationship with God.

Curated for this public verse page. Romans Summary

Frequently Asked Questions

Quick, clear answers about this verse

What does Romans 4:15 mean?

Romans 4:15 means that the law defines what is right and wrong, and without it, there can be no accountability for actions. The verse highlights that the presence of the law reveals human shortcomings and leads to God's wrath because it shows how far people fall short of His standards.

What is the meaning of transgression in Romans 4:15?

In Romans 4:15, transgression refers to the act of violating God's law. The verse explains that without the law, there can be no transgression, as there would be no standard to measure against.

How does Romans 4:15 relate to grace?

Romans 4:15 relates to grace by showing that while the law reveals sin and accountability, it is through faith that individuals can be justified. This highlights the importance of relying on God's mercy rather than solely on adherence to the law.

Why is the law important according to Romans 4:15?

The law is important according to Romans 4:15 because it establishes a standard for right and wrong. It reveals human shortcomings and the need for accountability, making it clear that without the law, there can be no recognition of sin.

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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