How should Romans 4:15 influence our approach to sharing the Gospel? Romans 4 : 15—The Core Text “ For the law brings wrath; but where there is no law, there is no transgression.” What Romans 4 : 15 Teaches about the Law • The law exposes sin: it names and defines transgression. • The law provokes wrath: once sin is revealed, God’s righteous judgment stands over it (Romans 1 : 18). • Absence of law leaves sin unrecognized: people cannot turn from what they do not know. Implications for Evangelism • Begin with God’s standard, not human comparisons. • Use the law to awaken conscience, not to shame—let Scripture speak (Romans 3 : 20). • Move quickly from conviction to the remedy: grace in Christ (Romans 5 : 20–21). • Keep wrath in view to magnify mercy; people value salvation when they see what they are saved from. • Avoid minimizing sin; doing so empties the cross of its meaning (1 Corinthians 1 : 17–18). Practical Steps When Sharing 1. Lovingly present God’s commandments (Exodus 20; Matthew 5). 2. Invite self-examination: “Have you ever…?” letting the Spirit convict (John 16 : 8). 3. Affirm the universal verdict: “All have sinned” (Romans 3 : 23). 4. Explain the consequence: “The wages of sin is death” (Romans 6 : 23a). 5. Proclaim the gift: “but the gift of God is eternal life in Christ Jesus our Lord” (Romans 6 : 23b). 6. Point to faith, not works: righteousness is “credited” apart from law-keeping (Romans 4 : 5–8; Ephesians 2 : 8-9). Supporting Scriptures to Weave In • Galatians 3 : 24 – “The law became our guardian to lead us to Christ, so that we might be justified by faith.” • 2 Corinthians 7 : 10 – “Godly sorrow brings repentance that leads to salvation…” • John 1 : 17 – “For the Law was given through Moses; grace and truth came through Jesus Christ.” • 1 Timothy 1 : 8 – “We know that the law is good if one uses it lawfully.” Takeaway Let the law reveal the seriousness of sin and God’s wrath; then, without delay, unveil the grace that overcomes both. This balance, rooted in Romans 4 : 15, keeps the Gospel sharp, honest, and overflowing with hope. |
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