How does Romans 4:15 explain the relationship between law and transgression? Setting the Verse in Context Romans 4 sits in Paul’s argument that salvation is by faith, not by works of the law. Verse 15 pinpoints why: “because the law brings wrath. And where there is no law, there is no transgression.” Key Words and Their Sense • Law (nomos) – God’s revealed commands, especially the Mosaic Law • Brings wrath – exposes guilt, triggering divine judgment • Transgression (parabasis) – a willful stepping over a known line What the Verse Teaches • The law does not create righteousness; it highlights violations. • By defining boundaries, the law turns general sinfulness into specific, indictable transgression. • Once a line is drawn, crossing it justly invites God’s wrath. Supporting Passages • Romans 5:13 – “sin is not imputed where there is no law.” • Romans 7:7 – “I would not have been aware of sin if not for the law.” • 1 Corinthians 15:56 – “the power of sin is the law.” Together they reinforce that the law’s clarity magnifies accountability. Sin vs. Transgression • Sin: any falling short of God’s perfection (even without explicit commands). • Transgression: sin that breaks a stated command. – Example: Eve sinned by eating; Adam transgressed because he received the direct prohibition (Genesis 2:16-17; 1 Timothy 2:14). Why the Law “Brings Wrath” • By spelling out God’s standards, the law removes every excuse (Romans 3:19). • Human nature rebels, so the law stirs up further disobedience (Romans 7:8). • The inevitable outcome is judgment unless righteousness is provided another way. Grace Shining Through • Romans 4:16 immediately follows: “Therefore, the promise comes by faith, so that it may rest on grace.” • God gave the law to reveal our need, then supplied the remedy in Christ (Galatians 3:24). Take-Home Points • Clear commands make our guilt undeniable. • Wrath underscores God’s holiness; grace highlights His mercy. • Faith in Christ, not law-keeping, secures righteousness (Romans 4:5). |
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