Romans 3:15

Their feet [are] swift to shed blood:

Their {G846} feet {G4228} are swift {G3691} to shed {G1632} blood {G129}:

“Their feet rush to shed blood,

“Their feet are swift to shed blood;

Their feet are swift to shed blood;

Commentary on Romans 3:15 (KJV)

This verse, Romans 3:15, is part of a powerful section (Romans 3:10-18) where the Apostle Paul compiles various quotes primarily from the Old Testament Psalms and Isaiah to build his case for the universal sinfulness of humanity. He aims to demonstrate that both Jews and Gentiles are "under sin" (Romans 3:9), establishing the need for God's righteousness found through faith in Jesus Christ.

Romans 3:15, specifically, is a direct quote from Isaiah 59:7. It describes a characteristic of fallen humanity: their readiness or eagerness to engage in violent and destructive acts. The phrase "swift to shed blood" paints a picture of people who do not hesitate or are quick to inflict harm, even to the point of taking life. It highlights a deep-seated inclination towards malice and violence inherent in the sinful nature.

Key Themes

  • Human Depravity: The verse underscores the extent of human sinfulness, showing a willingness to cause serious harm.
  • Readiness for Evil: The word "swift" implies a lack of restraint and an eagerness to commit violent acts.
  • Old Testament Witness: Paul uses this quote to show that the problem of human sinfulness is not new but is testified to throughout Scripture.
  • The Need for Redemption: By highlighting the depth of sin, Paul emphasizes why humanity needs a divine solution – the righteousness provided by God through faith.

Linguistic Insights

The Greek word translated "swift" is oxeis, which can mean sharp, quick, or rapid, emphasizing the speed and readiness of their feet. "Shed blood" translates the Greek phrase ekcheo haima, literally "to pour out blood," which is a common idiom for committing murder or inflicting severe violence.

Reflection and Application

This verse serves as a stark reminder of the potential for evil within the human heart apart from God's transforming grace. It challenges us to examine our own hearts and impulses, recognizing the inclination towards selfishness, anger, and harmful actions that can escalate if not surrendered to Christ. It reinforces our need for God's forgiveness and the indwelling Holy Spirit to guide our steps away from paths of violence and towards righteousness and peace. Understanding this aspect of human nature helps us appreciate the magnitude of Christ's work on the cross and the power of the gospel to change hearts and direct feet towards good works instead of shedding blood.

Note: Commentary was generated by an advanced AI, utilizing a prompt that emphasized Biblical fidelity over bias. We've found these insights to be consistently reliable, yet we always encourage prayerful discernment through the Holy Spirit. The Scripture text and cross-references are from verified, non-AI sources.

  • Isaiah 59:7

    Their feet run to evil, and they make haste to shed innocent blood: their thoughts [are] thoughts of iniquity; wasting and destruction [are] in their paths.

  • Isaiah 59:8

    The way of peace they know not; and [there is] no judgment in their goings: they have made them crooked paths: whosoever goeth therein shall not know peace.

  • Proverbs 1:16

    For their feet run to evil, and make haste to shed blood.

  • Proverbs 6:18

    An heart that deviseth wicked imaginations, feet that be swift in running to mischief,

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