New Testament
Romans 7:3
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So then, if she is joined to another man while her husband is alive, she will be called an adulteress. But if her husband dies, she is free from that law, so that she is not an adulteress even if she marries another man.
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So then if, while her husband liveth, she be married to another man, she shall be called an adulteress: but if her husband be dead, she is free from that law; so that she is no adulteress, though she be married to another man.
What Romans 7:3 means
Plain-English insight for readers
In Romans 7:3, the Apostle Paul uses the example of marriage to illustrate a spiritual truth about the law and grace. He explains that a woman is bound to her husband as long as he is alive. If she marries another man while her husband is still living, she is considered an adulteress. However, if her husband dies, she is released from that marital law and is free to marry again without being labeled as an adulteress. This analogy highlights how believers are freed from the law through the death of Christ. Just as the woman is no longer bound to her husband after his death, Christians are no longer bound by the law because of Jesus' sacrifice. This passage emphasizes the transformative power of grace and the new life believers have in Christ, allowing them to live in a way that honors God without the constraints of the old covenant.
How to apply Romans 7:3 to your life
This verse encourages us to understand our freedom in Christ. Just as a widow is free to remarry, we are free from the law's condemnation. We should embrace this freedom to live righteously, knowing that our relationship with God is based on grace, not legalism.
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Keep studying Romans 7:3
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At a Glance — the Book of Romans
- Author
- Paul the apostle
- Written
- Around AD 57
- Genre
- Letter (epistle)
- Original Audience
- Christians in Rome
Frequently Asked Questions
Quick, clear answers about this verse
What does Romans 7:3 mean?
Romans 7:3 explains that a woman is bound to her husband while he is alive. If she marries another man while he is still living, she is considered an adulteress. However, if her husband dies, she is free from that law and can remarry without being labeled as an adulteress.
What is the meaning of adultery in Romans 7:3?
In Romans 7:3, adultery refers to a woman marrying another man while her first husband is still alive. This act is seen as a violation of the marital bond, highlighting the seriousness of the commitment in marriage.
How does Romans 7:3 relate to freedom in Christ?
Romans 7:3 illustrates that believers are no longer bound by the law due to Christ's sacrifice. Just as a widow is free to remarry, Christians can live freely under grace, not under the constraints of the old covenant.
What themes are present in Romans 7:3?
Key themes in Romans 7:3 include marriage, adultery, the contrast between law and grace, freedom in Christ, and spiritual transformation. These themes highlight the significance of commitment and the new life believers have through Jesus.
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