How does Romans 5:16 contrast Adam's sin with Christ's gift of grace? Setting the Stage Romans 5:16: “Again, the gift is not like the result that came through the one who sinned. For on the one hand, the judgment following one sin brought condemnation, but on the other hand, the gift following many trespasses brought justification.” The Core Contrast • Adam’s single sin = condemnation for all. • Christ’s gracious gift = justification for many, even after countless sins. Judgment vs. Gift • Adam: a judicial verdict—guilty, condemned, separated from God (Genesis 2:17; 3:19). • Christ: an unearned present—righteous standing, reconciled relationship (Romans 3:24; Ephesians 2:8-9). One Sin vs. Many Trespasses • Adam’s lone act unleashed death (Romans 5:12). • Christ’s one sacrifice covers “many trespasses,” showing grace is greater than accumulated rebellion (Hebrews 9:28). Condemnation vs. Justification Condemnation: – A definitive sentence of guilt (John 3:18). – Leaves humanity spiritually dead (Ephesians 2:1). Justification: – A legal declaration of righteousness (Romans 8:1). – Grants peace with God (Romans 5:1). Overflowing Grace • Grace not only cancels sin’s penalty; it overflows to reign in life (Romans 5:17). • Where sin multiplied, grace multiplied much more (Romans 5:20). Connected Passages • 1 Corinthians 15:22—“For as in Adam all die, so also in Christ all will be made alive.” • Isaiah 53:11—Messiah will “justify many,” foretelling Romans 5:16’s reality. • 2 Corinthians 5:21—Christ became sin so we might become God’s righteousness. Living in the Gift • Receive the gift by faith (Romans 5:1-2). • Walk in newness of life, free from condemnation (Romans 8:1-2). • Celebrate and share the surpassing grace that triumphs over every trespass (Titus 2:11-14). |
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