In today’s text, Paul continues his argument that both Jews and Gentiles are under the power of sin. In the first half, Paul answers two additional objections from the Jews. In the second half, Paul shows from Scriptures how everyone, whether Jew or Gentile, is thoroughly sinful. Paul’s conclusion is that “no one will be declared righteous in God’s sight by the works of the law.” Then how can anyone be declared righteous? Now the stage is set for the declaration of the good news!