But now

BUT!! (In spite of Romans 1:18 to 3:20)!

NOW!
In contrast to man's helplessness, hopelessness and sin - we have God's power!! (Romans 1:16)

Now - not only in contrast, but temporally (timewise!)

But now, since Calvary, since Pentecost,

The Event.

The righteousness of God has been MANIFESTED (made known fully)

Here now is a righteousness which fully satisfies God!
Without the law! (Our keeping it)
Although the law and prophets (Old Testament) point to it!

The OT is a little like an advertising campaign ! "Coming soon", "watch out", "Pre order now!!" Trailers, posters, snippets, tasters, teasers!

(Luke 24:25-27)

I will give a brief OT survey of this.

So the OT saints had the gospel, but not in its full manifestation! (1 Peter1:10-12)

We now see it clearly - have you seen it?!