New Testament
Romans 8:3
Read the Bible in clear, modern English—easy to understand, faithful to the meaning, and written for everyday readers.
What the law was unable to do because it was weakened by the flesh, God accomplished by sending his own Son in the likeness of sinful flesh. As an offering for sin, he condemned sin in the flesh,
Compare translations
For what the law could not do, in that it was weak through the flesh, God sending his own Son in the likeness of sinful flesh, and for sin, condemned sin in the flesh:
What Romans 8:3 means
Plain-English insight for readers
In this verse, Paul explains that the law, which was meant to guide people in righteousness, was unable to achieve its purpose because human nature, referred to as 'the flesh,' is weak and prone to sin. God recognized this limitation and took action by sending His Son, Jesus, who came in a form similar to ours, yet without sin. By offering Himself as a sacrifice for our sins, Jesus effectively dealt with the problem of sin. This act not only fulfilled the requirements of the law but also condemned sin itself, demonstrating God's power to overcome human weakness. Through Jesus, believers can find freedom from the bondage of sin and the inability to fulfill the law on their own. This verse highlights the transition from reliance on the law to reliance on Christ for salvation and righteousness.
How to apply Romans 8:3 to your life
This verse encourages believers to rely on Jesus rather than their own strength to overcome sin. It reminds us that we cannot achieve righteousness through our efforts alone. Instead, we should trust in Christ's sacrifice and seek His help in living a life that honors God.
Curated for this public verse page. Romans Summary
Explore more of the Bible
Learn the Bible through its people and places
Get to know the people in Scripture through illustrated stories, and explore the places where they lived and traveled.
Illustrated scene from Peter's story: Andrew Brings Simon to Jesus (John 1:40–42)
Meet the people of the Bible
Follow their lives in order, with illustrated scenes and Bible passages that tell their stories.
Peter
Photo: zeevveez, via Wikimedia Commons. License: CC BY 2.0. Source. Location: Capernaum, on the northern shore of the Sea of Galilee. Resized for the web.
Explore the places of the Bible
See where biblical events happened, why each place matters, and what archaeology helps us understand.
Capernaum
Jesus' home base by the Sea of Galilee, and the town where Peter lived.
Get full access with one subscription
Explore the people and places of the Bible. Read summaries of every book, with images and clear explanations covering every chapter. Access all these features and our Bible study tools with one subscription.
See PlansAsk AI about Romans 8:3
Ask a question about this verse and get a clear answer, with Bible references you can read for yourself.
Every Bible book, explained chapter by chapter
Explore summaries of every book of the Bible, with images and easy-to-understand explanations covering every chapter.
Keep studying Romans 8:3
Related Bible verses
Key themes
Related topics
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 8:3 mean?
Romans 8:3 explains that the law was unable to save people because of human weakness. God sent His Son, Jesus, in human form to deal with sin and fulfill the law's requirements.
What is the meaning of 'the flesh' in Romans 8:3?
'The flesh' in Romans 8:3 refers to human nature, which is weak and prone to sin. It highlights the limitations of relying solely on human effort to achieve righteousness.
How does Romans 8:3 relate to sin and redemption?
Romans 8:3 illustrates that through Jesus' sacrifice, sin is condemned and believers can find redemption. It shows that reliance on Christ is essential for overcoming sin.
What does Romans 8:3 say about God's power?
The verse highlights God's power in sending Jesus to fulfill the law and condemn sin. It demonstrates that God can overcome human weakness and provide a way to righteousness.
Daily Verse — straight to your inbox
A verse and a 2-sentence plain-English explanation, every morning. Free. Unsubscribe anytime.