Who does 'all' refer to in Romans 3:23?
The word "all" in Romans 3:23 is a universal term encompassing every human being who has ever lived. It is a blanket statement declaring that all people have sinned and come short of the glory of God. No one is excluded.
Les explains that in Romans chapter 3, Paul presents the whole picture of reconciliation even though the word itself is not used. Les says the first step of faith for a lost person is to believe what God says about their condition—that they are breakers of God's Law and can do nothing pleasing in His sight. In Romans 3:23, Paul writes that "all have sinned and come short of the glory of God." Les emphasizes that "all" there means every human being that has ever lived; it is a blanket statement. He adds that this condition cannot be overcome any other way but by believing the Gospel. This fits the broader context that sin entered and separated man from God, creating a gulf only God could bridge through the Work of the Cross.
For all have sinned, and come short of the glory of God;
More Questions
What does Romans 3:23 say about all people and sin?
According to Romans 3:23, every human being from Adam on has sinned and come short of the glory of God, so no one is good enough to enter on their own.