So the Jew was badly mistaken if he believed that because he had the Law he was saved. The truth is that he is even more under judgement than the Gentile. Paul now comes to the purpose of the Law. No one will be declared righteous by observing the Law, or by works of the Law. There is some debate over whether this refers specifically to circumcision, or to the Law as a whole. It probably refers to both. Thus far Paul has made limited mention of circumcision but has been talking about life in general and all sorts of aspects of sin. However, things like circumcision would highlight the distinctiveness of Judaism, so they could be in mind as well. However, given the next phrase talking about sin in general I think Paul is referring to the Law as a whole. Whatever the case it is not going to make you righteous. God is not going to declare you righteous on the basis of the Law. Being circumcised will get you nowhere for God will look at the condition of your heart, and as the rest of these first three chapters make clear that is not a pretty sight. “Rather” (NIV) is better translated “for” or “since”. Ie the Law makes us aware of our sin, it highlights a sinfulness, so how can you be declared righteous by the Law when the Law deems you an utter failure?
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