⁵ But if our unrighteousness demonstrates the righteousness of God, what shall we say? Is God unjust who inflicts wrath? ^(A)(I speak as a man.)

The Changeless Promise^(A)

¹⁵ Brethren, I speak in the manner of men: ^(B)Though it is only a man’s covenant, yet if it is confirmed, no one annuls or adds to it.

¹⁹ I speak in human terms because of the weakness of your flesh. For just as you presented your members as slaves of uncleanness, and of lawlessness leading to more lawlessness, so now present your members as slaves of righteousness ^[a]for holiness.

⁸ Do I say these things as a mere man? Or does not the law say the same also?

¹⁸ Therefore He has mercy on whom He wills, and whom He wills He ^(A)hardens.

¹⁹ You will say to me then, “Why does He still find fault? For ^(B)who has resisted His will?” ²⁰ But indeed, O man, who are you to reply against God? ^(C)Will the thing formed say to him who formed it, “Why have you made me like this?”

Sin’s Advantage in the Law

⁷ What shall we say then? Is the law sin? Certainly not! On the contrary, ^(A)I would not have known sin except through the law. For I would not have known covetousness unless the law had said, ^(B)“You shall not covet.”

Abraham Justified by Faith^(A)

4 What then shall we say that ^(B)Abraham our ^(C)father^[a] has found according to the flesh?

⁵ But in accordance with your hardness and your ^[a]impenitent heart ^(A)you are ^[b]treasuring up for yourself wrath in the day of wrath and revelation of the righteous judgment of God,