Which statement best describes the method by which righteousness is attained in Romans' theme?

• A. By keeping the Law
• B. By faith in Christ
• C. By works
• D. By heritage

Answer: (B)

Righteousness in Romans is received as a gift from God through faith in Christ. Paul argues that everyone has sinned and falls short, and trying to achieve righteousness by the law only shows sin and cannot justify. The law exposes our need but cannot supply the righteousness God requires. Justification—being declared righteous before God—comes apart from works of the law and is credited to the one who trusts in Jesus, who fulfilled the law’s demands and bore the penalty for sin through his death and resurrection. Faith here means trust in Christ’s righteousness being counted to the believer, not merely keeping rules. Heritage or lineage cannot make someone righteous, and merely doing good works falls short for obtaining righteousness. Therefore, the method the Romans theme describes is faith in Christ.