Romans 3:14 (KJV)

What does Romans 3:14 mean?

Romans 3:14 describes people whose speech is filled with harmful and negative words, specifically mentioning that their mouths are full of cursing and bitterness. This verse is highlighting the destructive nature of their words as evidence of a deeper moral problem.

Paul is writing to the Christians in Rome, explaining the universal problem of sin. In this section, Paul is quoting from the Old Testament to show that both Jews and Gentiles are under sin’s power. By pointing out that their mouths are full of cursing and bitterness, Paul is emphasizing how sin affects not just actions but also the way people speak.

The Greek behind Romans 3:14

• στόμα (stoma; "mouth"): This word points to speech and what comes out of a person, emphasizing that the problem is not hidden but openly expressed.
• γέμω (gemō; "full"): This Greek word means to be completely filled or overflowing, stressing that their speech is not just occasionally bad but constantly marked by negativity.
• ἀρά (ara; "cursing"): This word refers to calling down harm or wishing evil on others, showing a hostile attitude in their words.
• πικρία (pikria; "bitterness"): This word describes sharpness or harshness, often connected to resentment or a sour spirit, highlighting the emotional tone behind their speech.

Why Romans 3:14 matters

• Romans 3:14 helps clear up the idea that sin is only about actions; Paul shows that the way people speak is also a sign of the sin problem.
• This verse connects to the larger argument in Romans 3, where Paul is building a case that everyone falls short of God’s standard, using examples from everyday life like speech.
• By quoting the Old Testament, Paul shows that this is not a new problem but one that has always been recognized in Scripture, making his point more convincing to his audience.