Literally, “without works of law.” In the Greek, “law” stands without the article (see on ch. 2:12). The meaning of this phrase is clear in the context of the whole chapter. The basis of every false religious system has been the mistaken idea that justification could be obtained by obedience to law. But works of law cannot atone for past sins. Justification cannot be earned. It can only be received by faith in the atoning sacrifice of Christ. Therefore, in this sense, works of law have nothing to do with justification. To be justified without there being anything in ourselves to merit justification.

 This, of course, may not be construed to mean that the man who has been justified is thereby freed from obeying the law or from performing good works. The faith by which he has been justified will reveal itself in obedience. Paul repeatedly emphasizes the place of good works in the life of the Christian (1 Tim. 5:10; 6:18; 2 Tim. 3:17; Titus 2:7, 14; 3:8; etc.). But he makes it equally clear that these good works do not earn justification (see Rom. 4:2, 6; 9:32; 11:6; Gal. 2:16; 3:2, 5, 10; Eph. 2:9; 2 Tim. 1:9).

That justification is by faith clearly implies that justification is no mere impersonal adjustment of a man’s legal status in the sight of God. Faith in Christ involves a personal relationship with the Redeemer. It implies an attitude of love and gratitude toward the Saviour in response to His love for us sinners. It is based on profound admiration of Jesus for all that He is, with a sincere desire to know Him better and become like Him. It means a trust and confidence in Christ that is so entirely without reservation that we are willing to take Him fully at His word and follow His directions wherever He may lead.

 Without such faith there can be no justification. God is not concerned merely with forgiving past sins. He is primarily concerned with man’s restoration, and restoration can be experienced only by means of such faith in Jesus Christ. Therefore, justification cannot be separated from the transforming experiences of conversion, rebirth, and subsequent growth in sanctification. Only the faith that gladly accepts and willingly enters into every phase of God’s program for our restoration can rightfully claim the imputed righteousness of Christ in justification (see on v. 22; chs. 4:25; 5:1).

Gr. anthrōpos, the general term for any member of the human race.

 Gr. logizomai. The same word is used with the meaning “to think” (ch. 2:3), “to count” (ch. 4:3), “to reckon” (chs. 4:4; 8:18), “to impute” (ch. 4:6), “to esteem” (ch. 14:14). The sense here seems to be “to consider,” “to hold.”

 Textual evidence is divided (cf. p. 10) between this and the reading “for” “For” seems more appropriate here. Paul is confirming the statement in v. 27 that boasting is excluded by the principle of faith.