“Come Short”
The phrase means:
- To fail to attain
- To lack
- To fall behind
- To miss the goal
Humanity continually fails to reach God’s standard.
This is not merely a past event.
It describes an ongoing reality.
“The Glory Of God”
This is the standard.
God’s glory refers to:
- His holiness
- His righteousness
- His perfection
- His character
The standard for righteousness is not other people.
The standard is God Himself.
Discussion Question
Why is comparing ourselves with others dangerous?
Answer
Because another sinner is never the standard.
God’s holiness is the standard.
Someone may appear better than others while still falling short of God’s glory.
Word Study
Sin (Hamartia)
The primary New Testament word for sin is:
Hamartia (ἁμαρτία)
The word literally means:
“To miss the mark.”
It was often used of an archer whose arrow failed to hit its target.
The picture is simple.
God’s holiness is the target.
God’s righteousness is the standard.
Humanity misses the mark.
Sin is falling short of God’s perfect will and character.