Romans 5: 12-19
Therefore, just as sin entered the world through one man, and death through sin, and in this way death came to all men, because all sinned–for before the law was given, sin was in the world. But sin is not taken into account when there is no law. Nevertheless, death reigned from the time of Adam to the time of Moses, even over those who did not sin by breaking a command, as did Adam, who was a pattern of the one to come.
But the gift is not like the trespass. For if the many died by the trespass of one man, how much more did God’s grace and the gift that came by the grace of the one man, Jesus Christ, overflow to the many! Again, the gift of God is not like the result of the one man’s sin: The judgement followed one sin and brought condemnation, but the gift followed many trespasses and brought justification. For if, by the trespass of one man, death reigned through that one man, how much more will those who receive God’s abundant provision of grace and the gift of righteousness reign in life through the one man, Jesus Christ.
Consequently, just as the result of one trespass was condemnation for all men, so also the result of one act of righteousness was justification that brings life for all men. For just as through the disobedience of one man the many were made sinners, so also through the obedience of one man the many will be made righteous.
A Thought
The sin of Adam not only brought death to Adam, but also to all future generations. The Law of Moses revealed what sin was, disobedience to God, and brought judgement and condemnation. The gift of God, his son, Jesus Christ, brought justification by his righteousness making grace available to all generations. When we accept the grace of God through repentance, we are no longer condemned to death because of sin: We receive the righteousness of Jesus Christ and we are no longer condemned, but are made righteous with the gift of life eternal.
Our Prayer
Father thank you for reconciling us back to a right standing with you because of the perfect life, death, and resurrection of your son, Jesus the Christ. Help us to live in obedience to your righteous word, to live for you eternal. We ask in Jesus’ name, amen.
