Question: How did we get into this mess?
Vs. 12-14
Why is there evil in the world? Vs. 12a “sin entered the world through one man (Adam)…” (NIV)
Like Pandora’s Box, once sin entered the world, paradise was lost.
Why do people die? Vs. 12b “and death through sin…” (NIV)
There are three different kinds of Death:
Physical Death—this is universal.
Hebrews 9:27 “And inasmuch as it is appointed for men to die once and after this comes judgment…” (NASB)
Spiritual Death—this is much more serious.
Ephesians 2:1-5
Eternal Death—Life or Death? Vs. 12
Question: Do you sin because you’re a sinner or are you a sinner because you sin?
What about people who’ve never heard of the Bible? Vs. 13
Key: It is not about what we do but who we are!
What happens to babies if they die and don’t accept Christ?
Psalm 116:6 “The LORD protects the simple-hearted; when I was in great need, he saved me.” (NIV)
Contrasting and Comparing Adam and Jesus: Vs. 14b
The two parts:
Vs. 12-17: the phrase of contrast—“is not like”
Vs. 18-21: the phrase of comparison—“so also”
Vs. 15—the Event.
Adam’s temptation and sin in the Garden of Eden.
Jesus’ gift on the cross.
Vs. 16—the Result.
Adam’s sin was judgment and condemnation.
Jesus’ gift was justification.
Vs. 17—the Effect.
Death reigned!
Vs. 19—the Reason.
Adam’s event = sin and death.
Jesus event = gift of life.
Question: Will you reign in Death or will you reign in Life?
