Romans 5:15-17

Passage

But the trespass is not like the gift.  For if by the trespass of one many died, how much more did the grace of God and the gift in grace of the one man Jesus Christ abound in many!  Also, the gift is not as through one man’s sin.  For on one hand the judgment is out of one into condemnation, but on the other hand the gift is out of many trespasses into justification.  For if death reigned through the one by the trespass of one, how much more will the ones who receive the abundance of grace and the gift of righteousness reign in life through the one Jesus Christ!

Thoughts for Today

First Thought:

Paul wants us to see that there is a difference in how sin and grace interact in the world.  At first it seems like they act the same.  After all, sin came through Adam and we all die because of sin.  Christ conquered sin on the cross and we all are forgiven because of the cross.  It seems like the actions of one man are affecting everyone involved.  That part is true and the same about both.  But Christ does much more.  Whereas Adam’s sin only brought death, Christ’s death on the cross not only conquers death but brings a restoration to eternal life.  Christ on the cross is much more than Adam’s sin.  Christ cancels the problem with sin and restores life.

How blessed are we all to have God take care of our sin for us?  Do you see the pattern that explains how one man’s death can affect the whole world?  If one man’s sin can establish a pattern of sin and death, doesn’t it make sense that one man’s sacrifice would be capable of undoing sin and death?

Second Thought:

Paul talks about the abundance of grace.  God doesn’t just give us grace.  Nor does He simply undo what has been done and walk away.  God comes alongside of us, forgives us, restores us, and then invites us to go further into a deep relationship with Him.  God isn’t simply looking to cancel things out.  God is looking to bring us into so much more than we could ever hope.

How has God’s grace abounded in your life?  Where has God not only undone where you have sinned but actually brought you into a life more rich than you could ever imagine?

Third Thought:

 Paul also speaks of the gift of righteousness.  Think for a moment about all of the sinfulness in your life.  Think about how people have hurt you and how you have hurt others.  Think about all of the selfishness and self-centeredness you experience in your own thoughts and actions.  Think about the many ways that you have gone against God’s ways.  Now think about standing before God and hearing Christ proclaim over you that through Him you are righteous.  Because He gave all, you are righteous.  Not because you deserve it, but because God made it possible.

How does this thought make you want to respond?  When we look at life through this lens, is there any reason to not be humble before God?

Passage for Tomorrow: Romans 5:18-21