17 And the way of peace they have not known.”
18 “There is no fear of God before their eyes.”
19 Now we know that whatever the law says, it says to those who are under the law, that every mouth may be stopped, and all the world may become guilty before God.
20 Therefore by the deeds of the law no flesh will be justified in His sight, for by the law is the knowledge of sin.
No fear of God (v.18) — This is the last of the 14 charges. The quote is from Psalm 36:1 — The transgression of the wicked saith within my heart, that there is no fear of God before his eyes.
The fear of God is the beginning of wisdom (Psalm 111:10 and Proverbs 9:10).
Colin Smith once said The reason men hate the Bible is because, if it’s true, it’s true about them. And it’s not very flattering.
Those under the Law (v.19) — Jews are included in the charges
Every mouth may be stopped (v.19) — there is no defense against the charges
Guilty before God (v.19) — the verdict. Everyone has come under judgment, been justly charged and worthy of blame.
Therefore (verse 20) — Based on Paul’s arguments since verse 18 of chapter 1, no law anywhere can justify any man. It can convict of sin and define sin, but it can’t save from sin.
Verse 20 is a quote from Psalm 143:2 — And enter not into judgment with thy servant: for in Thy sight shall no man living be justified.
