How does Romans 7:10 connect to the concept of grace in Romans 6:14? The Law’s Deadly Verdict “ And the commandment that was meant to bring life proved to result in death for me.” (Romans 7:10) • God’s law was given “for life” (cf. Deuteronomy 30:15–16). • Because of the fall, the law now serves to expose sin (Romans 7:7) and condemn the sinner (Galatians 3:10). • The result is spiritual death: separation from God, helplessness to keep the very commandments that promise blessing. • Paul’s testimony (“for me”) personalizes the universal human plight: everyone under the law stands guilty (Romans 3:19). Grace’s Liberating Banner “ For sin shall not be your master, because you are not under law, but under grace.” (Romans 6:14) • Grace places believers on entirely new ground—no longer ruled by the law’s condemnation, but by Christ’s righteousness (John 1:17). • Sin’s mastery is broken: its penalty satisfied at the cross (Romans 3:24–25) and its power shattered by union with Christ’s death and resurrection (Romans 6:6–11). • Living “under grace” means ongoing enablement by the Spirit (Romans 8:2) rather than striving under an external code. Putting the Pieces Together 1. Contrast • Law in 7:10: promises life yet ends in death. • Grace in 6:14: cancels death’s claim and empowers life. 2. Sequence • The law first reveals our deadness (7:10). • Grace then enters to free us from that death (6:14). 3. Outcome • Under law: condemnation, impotence, despair. • Under grace: justification, indwelling power, victory. 4. Purpose • God uses the law to drive us to Christ (Galatians 3:24). • In Christ, grace fulfills the life the law pointed toward (Romans 8:4). Other Passages That Complete the Picture • 2 Corinthians 3:6—“the letter kills, but the Spirit gives life.” • Galatians 3:13—Christ redeems us from the law’s curse. • Ephesians 2:8–9—salvation is by grace through faith, not works. • Romans 8:1–2—“no condemnation” because the Spirit’s law has set us free from the law of sin and death. |
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