The words “but now” mark a major turning point, not only in Paul’s letter but also in the entire story of God as Paul presents it.

There are no more wonderful words in all of Scripture.

Human beings have proven to be unfaithful and unjust…But Paul is about to narrate the revelation of God’s righteousness, or saving justice, that is manifested in Christ’s death and made available to all through the gospel he proclaims in word and deed.