In Romans 3:19, what does Paul mean by the phrase 'Now we know'?

Paul means 'we know' refers to something that is solid ground, not wishful thinking or something only a theologian could dream of. It is basic scriptural fact, a certain and objective truth. He is not expressing opinion but stating what Scripture establishes.

Les explains that when Paul says 'we know' in Romans 3:19, he is pointing to solid ground. It is not wishful thinking, nor something only a theologian could dream of; it is basic scriptural fact. Les notes this verse follows a grim description of the unbelieving individual still in old Adam—an opulent sepulcher with a mouth full of cursing and no fear of God. So 'we know' introduces a settled certainty about that condition, not human speculation. This certainty flies in the face of human reasoning, because the only remedy is the one God Himself provided.

Romans 3:19

Now we know that what things soever the law saith, it saith to them who are under the law: that every mouth may be stopped, and all the world may become guilty before God.

What did Paul mean by 'Now we know' in Romans 3:19?

Paul meant that 'Now we know' points to solid ground—not wishful thinking or a theologian's dream, but basic scriptural fact. It is a settled, authoritative conclusion drawn from Scripture, not human speculation or uncertainty. Therefore, the phrase introduces certainty grounded in God's revealed truth.