Romans 3:16

New Testament Epistle (Pauline) ASV (1901)

What does Romans 3:16 say?

The American Standard Version records this verse as: “Destruction and misery are in their ways;” Read the surrounding verses and the named sources below before drawing broader conclusions.

The verse

Destruction and misery are in their ways;
Romans 3:16 — American Standard Version

Context — Romans 3

American Standard Version (1901) — public domain. Click any verse for its study page.
16Destruction and misery are in their ways;

What do historical commentaries say?

John Gill's Exposition
John Gill (1697–1771) · Exposition of the Old and New Testament · 18th-century historical commentary
“Destruction and misery are in their ways.] This passage also is to be found in (<235907>Isaiah 59:7), and may be understood either actively thus: all the ways they take, and methods they pursue, are to make their fellow creatures miserable, to ruin and destroy them; or passively, that by their sinful ways and vicious course of life, they themselves are brought to destruction and misery: the way they are walking in is, “the broad way, that leadeth to destruction”, (<400713>Matthew 7:13); the end of it, what it issues in, is eternal death, the destruction of the body and soul in hell, which will be attended with endless and inexpressible misery.”
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Jamieson, Fausset & Brown
Robert Jamieson, A. R. Fausset & David Brown · Commentary Critical and Explanatory on the Whole Bible · 19th-century historical commentary
“Destruction and misery are in their ways; and the way of peace have they not known--This is a supplementary statement about men's ways, suggested by what had been said about the "feet," and expresses the mischief and misery which men scatter in their path, instead of that peace which, as strangers to it themselves, they cannot diffuse.”
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Barnes' Notes
Albert Barnes (1798–1870) · Notes on the Whole Bible · 19th-century historical commentary
“Destruction - That is, they “cause” the destruction or the ruin of the reputation, happiness, and peace of others. Misery - Calamity, ruin. In their ways - Wherever they go. This is a striking description not only of the wicked then, but of all times. The tendency of their conduct is to destroy the virtue, happiness, and peace of all with whom they come in contact. return to 'Top of Page'”
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Related study paths

Sources and verification