16. Romans 5:18-21 - The Contrast of Sin and Grace

October 7th, 2024
by Jongseung Park

This passage continues the contrast between the consequences of Adam's disobedience and the gift of righteousness through Christ's obedience. Both sin and grace have far-reaching effects: Adam's one act of disobedience brought death and condemnation to all, while Jesus' one act of righteousness brings justification and life.

1. SCRIPTURE

18 Therefore, as one trespass led to condemnation for all men, so one act of righteousness leads to justification and life for all men. 19 For as by the one man's disobedience the many were made sinners, so by the one man's obedience the many will be made righteous. 20 Now the law came in to increase the trespass, but where sin increased, grace abounded all the more, 21 so that, as sin reigned in death, grace also might reign through righteousness leading to eternal life through Jesus Christ our Lord.

2. OBSERVATIONS :

The disobedience of one man, Adam, had a profound and far-reaching impact on all of humanity. This singular act of sin unleashed death and condemnation upon everyone. In contrast, Jesus’ one act of obedience—His sacrificial death on the cross—opened the way for all to be justified and receive life. Christ’s work is more than sufficient to reverse the effects of Adam’s sin (v. 18-19).
Legalism is what’s harmful; rather, the law serves a purpose in revealing sin and guiding us. The law revealed the depth of human sinfulness by making people more aware of their sins. It didn't create sin but made it clear, leading to an increase in the awareness of sinfulness (v. 20). This ultimately deepens our awareness of the necessity and the great abundance of God's grace in our lives(v. 20).

No matter how great the impact of sin, God’s grace is greater. God’s grace does not just balance out sin; it overwhelms it. Through Christ’s righteousness, believers are no longer under the rule of sin and death but are under the reign of grace, which results in eternal life (v. 21).

Functions and Roles of the Law (cf. Romans 5:13) :
The Law makes clear what sin is. Even before the Law was given, sin existed, but people did not fully recognize its seriousness. The Law reveals sin, helping individuals understand their state before God. Paul states that "where there is no law, there is no transgression" in Romans 4:15. This indicates that the Law serves to identify and define sin, helping people understand how their actions are assessed in light of God's standards.

The Law highlights the seriousness of sin, leading people to recognize their need for a Savior. The Law also acts as a guide for ethical living, instructing believers on how to live in a way that pleases God and promotes justice and love in the community. This ultimately emphasizes the necessity of Jesus Christ for salvation.

In short, through the Law, sinners recognize their transgressions against God's perfect commandments, admit their sins, and comprehend their need for a Savior.

3. APPLICATION:

Today, I recognize the seriousness of sin and how my own acts of disobedience to God can negatively impact my family, friends, and church community, much like Adam’s one sin affected everyone. I’ve come to understand that my good acts of obedience to God can have a positive influence on myself and those around me, just as Jesus’ act of obedience brought righteousness and eternal life to many.

So, I have decided to do my best to be a disciple who follows Jesus, relying on God’s amazing grace through the Holy Spirit in my life. I will pray for the strength to overcome the temptations of sin, and I will practice good actions that can have a positive impact by showing the love of God in many ways.

Recognizing how sin and condemnation affect everyone around me inspires me to be a vessel of God’s grace. I’ve realized that it’s my responsibility to invite others into this message of hope, and I plan to do this by engaging in conversations, sharing my testimony, and demonstrating God’s love through my actions.

4. PRAYER:

Dear God,
Thank You for opening my eyes to the seriousness of sin. I realize that, just as Adam’s one sin had a negative impact on everyone, my own disobedience can affect my family, friends, and church community. Thank You for sending Jesus into the world to reverse the consequences of sin and death, bringing justification and life not only to me but to all who believe in Him.

Lord, I ask for Your guidance as I strive to follow Jesus and be His disciple. Help me to truly embody His teachings in my daily life. Grant me the strength to resist the temptations of sin that seek to pull me away from You. May I become a man who reflects Your love and grace, making a positive impact on those around me through the Gospel.

Please help me to live a life that points others to You. I pray for opportunities to share the good news of Your grace with those who need it most. Help me to be a beacon of hope and encouragement, inviting others to experience the overwhelming grace that You offer.
Thank You for Your unending love and grace. I trust in Your Word to transform my heart and actions.

In Jesus' name, I pray. Amen.

Posted in Book of Romans