We have learned to keep score on just about everything. Therefore we unwittingly carry that same ethic over into our spiritual lives. If we have to work hard and dedicate ourselves to achieving success, then we end up thinking that we have to keep score on achieving righteousness. Paul’s emphasis is one that runs throughout the Bible: we are losers and sinners. All have sinned and come short of the glory of God. We cannot lift ourselves by our own bootstraps. Personal works and effort count for nothing. It takes a while for this to get past our ego and pride. Paul kept it simple: righteousness is by faith in Jesus Christ alone. No scoreboard watching.