Much every way: chiefly, because that unto them were committed the oracles of God.

ROMANS 3:2KJV
Know the Bible

Romans 3:2 (KJV)

What does Romans 3:2 mean?

Romans 3:2 says that the Jewish people have many advantages, with the most important being that God entrusted them with His words and messages. This verse highlights that receiving the "oracles of God"—God’s direct teachings and promises—was a special responsibility and privilege given to the Jews.

Paul is writing to the Christians in Rome, explaining why the Jewish people still have a unique place in God’s plan, even though all people are under sin. In this context, Paul points out that God gave the Jewish people His "oracles"—a term for His revealed words, laws, and promises—making them stewards of God’s message to humanity.

The Greek behind Romans 3:2

  • "Oracles" (λόγια, logia): This Greek word means divine sayings or messages. Here, it refers to the Scriptures and revelations God gave to Israel, showing the deep trust and responsibility placed on them.
  • "Committed" (ἐπιστεύθησαν, episteuthēsan): This word means "entrusted" or "put in someone's care." The verse emphasizes that God deliberately gave His words to the Jewish people for safekeeping and sharing.

Why Romans 3:2 matters

  • Romans 3:2 clarifies that being entrusted with God’s words is not just an honor but a serious responsibility, showing the special role of the Jewish people in God’s unfolding story.
  • This verse helps correct the idea that the Jewish people had no lasting advantage after Christ; Paul insists their role as keepers of God’s message still matters.
  • Romans 3:2 sets up Paul’s argument about faithfulness and accountability, leading into his discussion about how all people, both Jews and Gentiles, relate to God’s promises.

Where else these words appear

“oracles” Greek G3051 · used in 4 verses

  • Acts 7:38 This is he, that was in the church in the wilderness with the angel which spake to him in the mount Sina, and with our fathers: who received the lively oracles to give unto us:
  • Hebrews 5:12 For when for the time ye ought to be teachers, ye have need that one teach you again which be the first principles of the oracles of God; and are become such as have need of milk, and not of strong meat.
  • 1 Peter 4:11 If any man speak, let him speak as the oracles of God; if any man minister, let him do it as of the ability which God giveth: that God in all things may be glorified through Jesus Christ, to whom be praise and dominion for ever and ever. Amen.

“way” Greek G5158 · used in 13 verses

  • Matthew 23:37 O Jerusalem, Jerusalem, thou that killest the prophets, and stonest them which are sent unto thee, how often would I have gathered thy children together, even as a hen gathereth her chickens under her wings, and ye would not!
  • Acts 15:11 But we believe that through the grace of the Lord Jesus Christ we shall be saved, even as they.
  • 2 Thessalonians 3:16 Now the Lord of peace himself give you peace always by all means. The Lord be with you all.

“chiefly” Greek G4412 · used in 61 verses

  • Matthew 5:24 Leave there thy gift before the altar, and go thy way; first be reconciled to thy brother, and then come and offer thy gift.
  • Luke 10:5 And into whatsoever house ye enter, first say, Peace be to this house.
  • Romans 1:16 For I am not ashamed of the gospel of Christ: for it is the power of God unto salvation to every one that believeth; to the Jew first, and also to the Greek.